The Monastery of St. Nicholas
The monastery of St. Nicholas sits on Cyprus’ Akrotiri Salt Lake peninsula. Monks founded it in the 4th century. Today, it shelters hundreds of cats. The monastery blends faith and feline care in a rare way.
Ancient Snake Solution
The monastery’s cats roam freely. Volunteers and nuns feed them twice daily. The cats enjoy kibble, fish, and fresh water. Many tourists visit just to see them. The cats lounge in the sun, climb trees, and greet visitors.
A Sanctuary for Strays
The monastery takes in stray and abandoned cats. Some arrive sick or injured. The staff provides medical care. They spay and neuter the cats to control the population. The cats live safely without predators.
Tourism and Conservation
The monastery attracts cat lovers worldwide. Visitors donate food and money. The site also preserves Byzantine history. Its chapel features beautiful icons. The gardens offer peaceful walks.
Active Cat Colony
Over 100 cats still roam the monastery grounds. Nuns feed them twice daily at 7 AM and 3 PM. Visitors often adopt monastery cats.
Byzantine Frescoes
15th-century paintings decorate the chapel walls. Artists depicted Saint Nicholas saving sailors. Restorers carefully preserved the vibrant colors.
Modern Nunnery
Orthodox nuns maintain the monastery today. They produce organic citrus marmalades. Their workshop creates handmade candles.
Annual Blessing
On December 6th, the nuns bless the cats. Locals bring their pets for the ceremony. The tradition continues after 17 centuries.
Wildlife Haven
Flamingos winter in the salt lake. The cats coexist with hedgehogs and migratory birds. The area became an important nature reserve.
Visitor Experience
Donate cat food at the entrance
Photograph the sunset over the salt lake
Buy the nuns’ famous orange jam
Attend morning feeding time
Special Feature
Archaeologists found ancient cat cemeteries nearby. Some tombs contained jewelled collars.
St. Nicholas of the Cats Monastery blends faith, history and ecology. Purring felines greet pilgrims at this living sanctuary. The monastery keeps its extraordinary tradition alive.
A Must-Visit for Animal Lovers
St. Nicholas of the Cats Monastery remains a unique destination. It combines history, faith, and feline care. Visitors leave with smiles and unforgettable memories. The cats continue their ancient duty—guarding the land with purrs and paws.
Nearby Attractions
Akrotiri Environmental Center
Lady’s Mile Beach
Kourion archaeological site
