Monastery of Apostolos Varnavas
📍 5VFJ+V4X, Tuzla 99500
⭐ 4.5 / 5.0
The Monastery of Apostolos Varnavas (St. Barnabas) is a significant religious and cultural site near Salamis in the Famagusta district, dedicated to the apostle who brought Christianity to Cyprus. The present buildings date mainly from the 18th century, featuring a handsome stone church with three aisles and a bell tower. The monastery now functions as an icon museum and archaeological gallery, housing religious paintings and artefacts from across the region.
The tranquil monastery grounds include the royal tomb chapel — a small subterranean rock-cut chamber believed to be where the remains of St. Barnabas were discovered in 478 AD. This discovery was politically significant as it helped the Church of Cyprus gain its autocephalous status. The complex offers a serene atmosphere with its gardens, ancient olive trees, and views across the coastal plain towards Salamis.
Key facts: Dedicated to Apostle Barnabas · 18th-century monastery · Icon museum · Archaeological gallery · Royal tomb chapel · Near Salamis ruins · Entry fee applies
The tranquil monastery grounds include the royal tomb chapel — a small subterranean rock-cut chamber believed to be where the remains of St. Barnabas were discovered in 478 AD. This discovery was politically significant as it helped the Church of Cyprus gain its autocephalous status. The complex offers a serene atmosphere with its gardens, ancient olive trees, and views across the coastal plain towards Salamis.
Key facts: Dedicated to Apostle Barnabas · 18th-century monastery · Icon museum · Archaeological gallery · Royal tomb chapel · Near Salamis ruins · Entry fee applies
