St Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum
Explore a 1700s monastery, icon museum, and archaeological gallery, home to Cyprus's patron saint's tomb.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
St Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a 1700s monastery, icon museum, and archaeological gallery, home to Cyprus's patron saint's tomb.
"A notable piece of Greek Cypriot history and national identity, with impressive ancient artifacts."
🎟️ Ticket & Toilet Fees
A nominal fee grants entry to the monastery and museum. Be aware that toilet access may incur an additional charge. :moneybag:
🚶 Explore the Gallery
Don't miss the archaeological gallery behind the monastery for ancient artifacts. :ancient_roman:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tomb of St. Barnabas
Chapel area
Experience the solemn atmosphere of the holy place where Cyprus's patron saint is believed to be entombed.
Icon Museum
Main monastery building
Marvel at a well-preserved collection of ancient icons, showcasing centuries of religious art and history.
Archaeological Gallery
Behind the monastery
Discover a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, including pottery and statues, some dating back to 1000 BC.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Historical Significance & Preservation
Exploring Beyond the Monastery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Ticket & Toilet Fees
A nominal fee grants entry to the monastery and museum. Be aware that toilet access may incur an additional charge. :moneybag:
🚶 Explore the Gallery
Don't miss the archaeological gallery behind the monastery for ancient artifacts. :ancient_roman:
St. Barnabas Museum in North Cyprus!
The Tomb of Saint Barnabas in the St Barnabas Monastery Near Salamis, Cyprus
🙏 Visit the Shrine
A small Christian shrine is located about 100 meters away and is worth a visit. :church:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You could easily spend 45 minutes to an hour exploring the diverse exhibits. :clock:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Ticket & Toilet Fees
A nominal fee grants entry to the monastery and museum. Be aware that toilet access may incur an additional charge. :moneybag:
🚶 Explore the Gallery
Don't miss the archaeological gallery behind the monastery for ancient artifacts. :ancient_roman:
🙏 Visit the Shrine
A small Christian shrine is located about 100 meters away and is worth a visit. :church:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You could easily spend 45 minutes to an hour exploring the diverse exhibits. :clock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find St Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum to be a historically significant site with a commendable collection of icons and ancient artifacts. While some areas require further restoration, the archaeological gallery is particularly impressive. The spiritual atmosphere around the tomb of St. Barnabas is a highlight for many.
"Although it unequivocally merits further restoration and management, this monastery, or rather, museum, as is the current state of it, is a notable piece of Greek Cypriot history and national identity. It is commendable that efforts are underway to make sure it remains reputable.
If you're visiting, make sure not only to visit the main building of the monastery, but also to explore the gallery behind it. The gallery can be entered through the back courtyard, and it holds a sizable collection of archeological artifacts well worth observing."
Nikola Radovanović
"Our first stop exploring the region of many historical antiquities that should be seen if you're in Northern Cyprus. Our first stop was visiting the tiny chapel over the tomb of St. Barnabas. Upstairs seemed to be in disrepair for obvious reasons, but as I descended it down the steps to the tomb area, it got my hair standing on end being in this holy place. My wife and I said our prayers and left to explore the monastery and museum. The chapel area of the monastery is full of icons from over the many years. It's old, but seemed well preserved. There was a nominal fee to get inside as well as a small Cafe and gift shop. The museum is full of really impressive collection of ancient antiquities that some date to 1000 BC. Kind of mind-blowing for us. Definitely one of the most intriguing stops of our day!"
William Anderson
"Close to Salamis road and hotel. Nice ancient church with several museums containing nice old paitings and old pottery and statues. We went there at 4pm and there was nobody else in the area. Tickets were 50 TL per person."
Hooman Sepehri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St Barnabas Monastery is located near the Salamis road, close to many hotels. It's a popular stop when exploring the historical antiquities of Northern Cyprus. Many visitors arrive by car or as part of organized tours. :car:
The monastery complex is generally accessible, though some areas might show signs of age. The main museum and icon displays are typically easy to navigate. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific hours can vary, many visitors report arriving around 4 PM and finding it open. It's advisable to check locally or confirm with your tour operator. :calendar:
There is a nominal entrance fee, reported to be around 50 TL per person. Keep in mind that toilet facilities might have a separate charge. :ticket:
Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. Tickets are typically purchased on-site upon arrival. :credit_card:
As it is a historical religious site, modest dress is recommended out of respect. Covering shoulders and knees is a good practice. :dress:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The site features a monastery, an icon museum with religious art, and a significant collection of archaeological artifacts in a separate gallery. You can also visit the tomb of St. Barnabas and a nearby Christian shrine. :magnifyingglasstilted_left:
Most visitors find that 45 minutes to an hour is sufficient to explore the monastery, icon museum, and archaeological gallery. :stopwatch:
While not explicitly mentioned in all reviews, organized tours often include this site. For independent visitors, the exhibits are generally self-explanatory. :guide_dog:
The monastery is a historical site with ongoing preservation efforts. While the icon museum is well-maintained, some parts of the structure may show signs of age or disrepair, particularly those affected by past conflicts. :construction_worker:
Photography is generally permitted within the museum and monastery complex, but it's always good practice to check for any specific signage regarding restrictions, especially in sensitive areas. :camera:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
A small cafe is available on-site, offering refreshments. For more extensive dining, you'll find options in nearby towns or along the main roads. :coffee:
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the ancient icons, the atmospheric tomb area, and the impressive archaeological finds. The architecture of the monastery itself also offers great photographic potential. :shutter_speed:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Monastery and Its Significance
While the monastery itself is a focal point, its current state as a museum highlights its dual role. The collection of icons within the church offers a window into centuries of religious art, showcasing the skill and devotion of past generations. The very fact that these artifacts have survived and are on display is a testament to the dedication of those involved in their preservation.
Unearthing the Past: The Archaeological Treasures
The sheer age and variety of these finds are often described as 'mind-blowing' by visitors. It provides a tangible connection to the civilizations that once thrived in the region, offering a broader historical context to the site. Exploring this gallery allows you to appreciate the layers of history present in Cyprus, from ancient times to its more recent past.
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