The Monastery of the Apostle Barnabas occupies a place of honor among the most significant shrines of Cyprus. This complex is an important pilgrimage center, as well as an outstanding historical and architectural monument. Located in a picturesque and secluded area near the city of Famagusta, it harmoniously combines a modest appearance and deep spiritual significance. Today, an archaeological museum is opened within its walls, which attracts both history buffs and tourists eager to discover the cultural heritage of the island.
The history of the creation of the Monastery of the Apostle Barnabas
The history of the monastery of the Apostle Barnabas is closely connected with the personality of the Apostle Barnabas himself, after whom it is named. Barnabas, born into a pious family of priests in the ancient city of Salamis, devoted his life to preaching Christianity. After studying in Jerusalem, he returned to his homeland, where he became the first Archbishop of Cyprus. Barnabas devoted his life to preaching Christianity, for which he was captured by the Jews and executed as a martyr. His remains were secretly reburied by his closest followers, but the exact resting place remained unknown for a long time.
Centuries passed before one of the bishops saw a prophetic dream in which he was shown the location of Barnabas’s tomb. After excavations, an ancient grave was discovered, which became the basis for the construction of the church. Over time, the church was rebuilt many times, changing its appearance. The modern building, which delights tourists, was erected in the 18th century. Nearby there are monastic buildings where monks lived until 1976. They maintained order on their own, decorated the walls of the monastery with frescoes, created icons and took care of the preservation of shrines. In 1991, the monastery was restored, and an archaeological museum was located within its walls.
Tomb of the Apostle Barnabas
An equally important object of the monastery complex is the burial place of the Apostle Barnabas, which is located 150 meters from the main building. A mausoleum with a chapel was built here, from where a staircase leads to an underground cave. Inside the cave there is an ancient coffin, empty today. Archaeological finds and elements of the interior decoration confirm that the tomb was built during the Roman period. Particularly noteworthy are the arcosolia - unique arched niches decorated with frescoes.
The remains of the Apostle Barnabas, found in the tomb, were originally kept in a specially built church. However, after an earthquake in the 12th century, it was decided to transfer the relics of the saint to Nicosia, where a new church had already been built. The later fate of the relics remains a mystery, but the monasteries of Kykkos and Macheras in Cyprus claim to own parts of the relics of the apostle.
Archaeological Museum
The Monastery of the Apostle Barnabas currently serves as an archaeological museum, which is divided into several thematic halls. Each of them is dedicated to a separate period or aspect of the life of the island:
- Greek Hall : Artifacts from the ancient Greek era are displayed here, giving insight into the culture and traditions of that time.
- Hall of Ancient Sculpture : In this hall you can see statues whose age reaches 2500 years. The female sculpture, which is one of the oldest finds in the museum, deserves special attention.
- Roman Glass Hall : A unique collection of Roman glassware impresses with its elegance and craftsmanship.
In addition, the museum includes exhibits found in Cyprus: amphoras, jugs, painted utensils, animal figurines and jewelry. In a separate building of the monastery complex, in the church, there is a museum of icons, where valuable examples of Christian art are collected.
Architectural features
The Monastery of Apostle Barnabas was originally built in the Byzantine style. The first building, erected in the 7th century, was destroyed as a result of Arab raids. It was restored in the 17th century, and since then the appearance of the building has remained virtually unchanged. The modern monastery is a basilica with intersecting naves and domes over each of them. Narrow windows with bars and massive walls give the building a majestic appearance, characteristic of Byzantine architecture.
The chapel over the tomb of the apostle and the Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary are also important elements of the complex. The church is famous for its frescoes from the 12th to 15th centuries, executed in the Franco-Byzantine style, and the magnificent carved iconostasis of the 18th century, which is decorated with geometric and floral patterns.
Modern significance of the monastery
The Monastery of Apostle Barnabas today is not only a place of spiritual worship, but also a cultural heritage of Cyprus. Every year thousands of tourists come here to touch ancient history, enjoy the beauty of architecture and see unique exhibits of the archaeological museum. A visit to the monastery is usually accompanied by voluntary donations, which makes it accessible to everyone.
The Monastery of Apostle Barnabas is a place where past and present intertwine, telling the amazing story of Christianity in Cyprus and perpetuating the memory of the great Apostle.
📍Location of the Monastery of the Apostle Barnabas is HERE.
