Overview
The Church of Ayios Irakleidios located in the village of Politiko in the Nicosia district was built in 400 AD above the grave of St Irakleidios, who was martyred at the site. Saint Irakleidios is one of the most important saints in Cyprus, who was martyred at the age of 60 and buried in the cave where he lived and preached. Irakleidios was the son of a pagan priest, and was ordained as the Bishop of Tamasos by Saints Paul and Barnabas.
Although the monastery was destroyed and rebuilt several times, the current buildings date to 1773, when Archbishop Chrysanthos restored the church and convent cells. The saint’s relics are kept inside the church.
Today the monastery functions as a convent where nuns make some of the most well-known almond sweets on the island!
The convent operates all year round and is closed on public holidays. The entrance to the convent is free of charge.
Note: Opening and closing times as well as entrance fees, are subject to alterations without notice. Visitors are advised to check before visiting.
