St. Hilarion Monastery

　　       Originally a small fishing village, now a popular tourist destination. This charming medieval monastery has been described as the "Lady of the Forest." It is situated in the center of St. Hilarion, surrounded by high walls. The fig tree in front of the monastery's south gate is said to be 600 years old.

　　    Legend has it that in the 16th century, a hunter discovered an icon of the Virgin Mary in a cave. The image depicted the persecution suffered by Christians during the 8th and 9th centuries. Some Christians had hidden the icon of the Virgin Mary in this carefully chosen cave. Residents from nearby villages held worship services there on their own to honor the Virgin Mary. This place continued to exist until the 15th century.

　　    As the site became a prestigious and important holy place, the tradition was preserved and also attracted a young noblewoman from Venice who later lived in Famagusta.

　　    This young lady's father disapproved of her marrying the man she loved, so she left home and came to St. Hilarion. Soon after, she acquired a church and several chapels, and thus the St. Hilarion Monastery was gradually built. Inside the monastery, there is a cave believed to have been used for worship in earlier times.

　　    During the later period of Venetian rule (1489–1570), the monastery became very famous and accumulated considerable wealth.

　　    Since then, through renovations and reconstructions over various eras, it has taken its current form. Today, part of the monastery serves as a conference venue and café.

　　     Nicosia, Cyprus