Ayia Napa Monastery
Μονή Αγίας Νάπας
A 16th-century monastery from the Venetian period, surrounded by nightclubs yet still peaceful, and the origin of the town's name.
Legend says a hunter found an icon of the Virgin Mary in a cave in the forest (napa), and a monastery was later built on the site, which is how the town got its name. The grounds include a stone cloister, an octagonal fountain pavilion and an old fig tree said to be 600 years old. Some of the churches were carved into the rock. Entry is free, and dress should cover shoulders and knees. The monastery sits right beside the central square, and after dark the surrounding streets fill with bars and nightclubs.
Opening hours
About 09:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Thalassa Municipal Museum of the Sea
- Ayia Napa Harbour
- Ayia Napa Sculpture Park
- Nissi Beach
- Ayia Napa Sea Caves
- Makronissos Beach & Tombs
- Profitis Elias Church, Protaras
- WaterWorld Waterpark Ayia Napa