Kalopanagiotis

One of the most scenic villages of Nicosia District, but also Cyprus, Kalopanagiotis, lies in Marathasa valley, in the northern part of Troodos Mountain.

Strolling through the cobbled streets and the narrow footpaths the visitors can enjoy the traditional character of Kalopanagiotis. The houses kept the mountainous village architecture, with the tiled rooftops and wooden balconies. Some of them were restored and converted into tourist accommodation units with the aid of the Department of Antiquities.

Additionally, one can visit the many churches and chapels that are found in the village. The village was characterised as "the byzantine destination of Cyprus" due to the number of byzantine churches that are located in the village. More precisely, Kalopanagiotis has two parish churches, Ayia Marina Church with its impressive bell tower and the Church of Panayia Theotokos (Church of Virgin Mary), but also six smaller charming chapels.

The main pole of attraction for the village's visitors is the Monastery of Agios Ioannis Lampadistis (Saint John the Illuminator). Situated opposite the village, the monastery is a complex of three churches: the church of Saint Ioannis Lampadistis, Saint Irakleidios and a smaller Latin chapel. While the exact founding period of the monastery is unknown, it is estimated that the origin of Saint Irakleidios chapel dates back to the 11th century and Saint Ioannis' church later on, in the 12th Century. The final construction, that we can see today, is the result of many restorations and additions made during the passage of years. The complex is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, along with other nine churches of Troodos area, providing an overview of unique wall paintings from the early 13th and 15th Centuries.

Walking through the natural trail is an alternative way to enjoy the beauty of Kalopanagiotis village and the surrounding valley of Setrachos river. The linear trail of 4km, starts near Agios Ioannis church and passes through vineyards and fruit trees. One can see the 17th Century Kykkos Watermill, pass by the Venetian bridge of the 16th Century that is constructed from local stone, the Sulphur Springs with healing properties which were famous and attracted visitors since the Roman era and ends up towards the neighbouring Oikos village.

Therefore, it is not surprising that the village was awarded as one of the European Destinations of Excellence (EDEN) in Cyprus, in the category of Tourism and Regeneration of Physical Sites.