Kyrenia is a town rich in history as emphasized by the ruins and structures that have been preserved over the years. One of the best places to see which gives you a brief look at the town’s heritage is Bellapais in Kyrenia – Northern Cyprus.
Location
Bellapais in Kyrenia – Northern Cyprus is situated approximately 4 miles off the city center of Kyrenia, just above the Bellapais Abbey.
Getting There
You can actually walk from the city center towards Bellapais in Kyrenia – Northern Cyprus as it is close to the city center. The streets are narrow and winding so you may not be too comfortable driving your own car going to the village.
On the one hand, you may also take your car hire service if you would rather ride than walk. Your own car service is the best way to drive up to the old village as buses are infrequent.
What to See and Do
The historic village of Bellapais in Kyrenia – Northern Cyprus is home to ruins of the Bellapais Abbey otherwise known as the “Abbey of Peace.”
When you get to the top of the hill where the village is situated, you can get spectacular views of the harbour and its surrounding areas.
You can also go inside the monastery and view what remains of it. Around the area of this monastery, you will find an old mulberry tree which is known as the “Tree of Idleness.”
Under this tree, you can sit and relax while taking in the breathtaking views of your surroundings.
Around the village, there are small cafes and restaurants that offer local dishes which are more affordable than the ones that you will get in restaurants around the harbor and the city center.
Brief History
The small village of Bellapais in Kyrenia – Northern Cyprus was home to British expatriate Lawrence George Durrell who was inspired to write a book about life in the island of Cyprus.
It is in this book that he made famous the “Tree of Idleness.” It is called as such because people believed that whoever went under the shade of this tree would be so lazy to get up and work.
The monastery, Bellapais Abbey, was constructed by monks some time during the 13th century.
Cost
The cost to enter the monastery at Bellapais in Kyrenia – Northern Cyprus is about 9 Turkish liras per person.
Accommodations around Kyrenia range from £ 44 up to £ 95 per person.
Other Information
The walk up the hill towards Bellapais in Kyrenia – Northern Cyprus is rather steep so it is recommended that you visit in the afternoons when the sun is about to set to avoid the harsh heat of the sun.
Taking bottled water and an umbrella with you is likewise recommended.
