Bellapais Abbey in Northern Cyprus: history, events, how to get there, entrance fee

About the Place

Bellapais Abbey is one of the most famous architectural landmarks in Northern Cyprus. It combines rich history, Gothic architecture, and an atmosphere wrapped in legends. Bellapais rises on a hill above Kyrenia, just a few kilometers from the coast, offering views of the sea and mountains that attract not only tourists but also Cypriots themselves. Nearby lies the village of the same name, with quiet streets, viewpoints, and taverns.

History of the Abbey

The monastery was founded in the 12th century and over the centuries went through different eras. In the Middle Ages, it was an important spiritual center, housing monks’ cells, a refectory, a library, and a church.

Later, under the Lusignans and Genoese, the complex was expanded with Gothic vaults, columns, and a cloister; the abbey became not only a religious site but also a political one.

The Ottoman conquest changed the monastery’s fate: it lost its importance and was used as a warehouse and barracks. Only in the 19th century did the British administration begin restoration, giving the ruins a new look and opening them to the world. Today, Bellapais is regarded as cultural heritage rather than just a monument of the past.

Architecture and Atmosphere

The main feature of Bellapais is its Gothic vaults, arches, and cloister, preserved even after centuries. The refectory is particularly impressive: its vaulted hall is famous for its excellent acoustics, which is why concerts are held here. Stone columns, remnants of stained glass, and the well-kept gardens surrounding the abbey create an atmosphere of both tranquility and grandeur. Even in ruins, the complex looks monumental and beautifully medieval.

Legends and Tales

Many legends are associated with Bellapais. The most famous tells of a young princess imprisoned within the monastery walls until she found true love. Another legend claims that treasures are hidden in the underground chambers, never discovered by locals or archaeologists. These stories give the place a mysterious aura, making a walk through the abbey feel less like a dry history lesson and more like a journey into a world of lore.

Concerts and Festivals

Today, Bellapais Abbey is known not only as an architectural landmark but also as a concert venue. Thanks to its perfect acoustics, it hosts international cultural events such as the International Music Festival and the Spring Festival of Classical Music.

Attending a concert within these Gothic walls is a special experience: the music literally brings the stone to life. You can follow the program on our website in the section “Events” as well as on the festivals’ Facebook pages: Bellapais Spring Music Festival and International North Cyprus Music Festival.

How to Get There

Bellapais Village is just five kilometers from Kyrenia, so the journey takes no more than ten minutes. You can get there by minibus (dolmuş), which depart every hour from 10:00 to 19:00 from the stop near Limos Restaurant.

Another option is a taxi from Kyrenia. If you are traveling by car, there is a small parking lot nearby, costing 40 Turkish lira (price valid as of September 2025).

If you don’t have a car, you can rent one online through the aggregator Economybookings or directly from one of the rental companies in Northern Cyprus.

Tickets and Opening Hours (2025)

Visiting the abbey requires a ticket. Admission is 50 Turkish lira per person (price valid as of September 2025), with discounts for schoolchildren and students. In summer, the abbey is open from 08:00 to 19:00, and in winter until 15:30. Concert tickets are sold separately.

What Else to See Nearby

• The House of Lawrence Durrell — the writer Lawrence George Durrell lived here and wrote his autobiographical work “Bitter Lemons.” He even dedicated a separate chapter of the book to the process of buying property on the island.

• Idle Tree — an old symbolic tree where both tourists and locals love to sit.
• Bellapais Village — cozy taverns, souvenir shops, and viewpoints overlooking Kyrenia and the sea.