St. Thekla's monastery

 

The monastery, built in honor of Saint Thekla, the disciple of the Apostle Peter, whom he called his "first spiritual daughter," is located between Limassol and Larnaca and is considered one the largest shrines of the island. Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come there every year.

This place is especially popular among those who suffer from any diseases and have already lost all hope of healing. There are many documented evidence of how, after visiting the monastery, people recovered. 

According to legend, once upon a time, the holy Empress Helena, stopping in Cyprus on her way from Jerusalem to Constantinople, discovered an amazing source at this place, water from which could cure almost any disease. Besides, clay from it is also considered healing - with its help, and many managed to get rid of almost incurable skin diseases.

Over time, around 1471, a monastery was built there, although documentary evidence of its existence dates back only to the 18th century. Since that time, the monastery is often mentioned in historical chronicles. It is known that at the end of the 18th century, only a few monks lived there, and, a hundred years later, it was turned into a school for children from nearby villages. Only in 1956, the building was again transferred to the church. Since then, there has been a nunnery.

Its main shrine is a part of the relics of Saint Thekla, which, according to tourists who have been there, are always warm to the touch.

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SZxFbKioBrZVQa8F7