Trooditissa Monastery

Trooditissa Monastery sits at around 1,300 metres in the pine forest of the Troodos south slope, 5 km north of Pano Platres. It is one of the oldest monastic foundations on Cyprus, dating to the 13th century according to its own tradition (some sources push the foundation back to the 11th century), and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary in the form of the icon Panagia Trooditissa — by legend an icon brought from Asia Minor by two ascetic monks fleeing the Iconoclast persecution.

The monastery is small, unfussy, and working — a handful of monks following the cenobitic rule, with a katholikon (main church) of modest dimensions but rich interior decoration. The miraculous icon of Panagia Trooditissa is enshrined behind glass in the iconostasis; it is one of the most venerated icons in Cyprus, particularly by women hoping to conceive — couples come from across the island and beyond on pilgrimage. The carved walnut iconostasis is 18th-century work; the wall paintings are largely 19th-century renewal of older programs.

The setting is remote and contemplative. The drive up from Pano Platres passes through dense pine forest and mountain stream valleys; the monastery itself is enclosed within a high stone wall with a small courtyard. The contrast with the nearby tourist village of Pano Platres is total — Trooditissa preserves a genuine monastic quiet.

Insider tips. Open daily roughly 09:00-12:00 and 14:00-17:00 (closed during liturgy). Dress code is enforced — covered shoulders and knees; women may borrow wraps at the entrance. Photography is not permitted inside. The drive up has switchbacks; allow 20 minutes from Pano Platres. The monastery shop sells small icons and the monks' own bee-products and herbs.

Combinations. Pair with the Caledonia Falls (10 minutes — the famous walking trail), with Pano Platres village (5 minutes — taverns, the historic Edelweiss Hotel), with Mount Olympus (15 minutes), or with a Pitsilia winery (Tsiakkas Pelendri 30 minutes). A complete southern Troodos day.

Bring. Modest dress, comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing (the monastery is at altitude), small change for candles, water. When. May for spring wildflowers; September-November for clear cool weather. Avoid Sundays during liturgy unless attending. Trooditissa is a quieter, more contemplative monastic visit than the famous Kykkos and a recommended stop on any serious Troodos itinerary.