To the north-east of Kyrenia (Girne), set on the side of a mountain, this twelfth-century monastery is a fine example of the gothic architecture from the Lusignan period. The abbey is comprised of a church, refectory, dormitory and storage rooms grouped around an inner courdyard. It was originally occupied by a French brotherhood, the Order of Premontre, and was known to them as the "Abbaye de la Paix". During the reign of the Latin kings, this order was held in great esteem. The abbot was allowed to wear the protifical mitre during mass and was awarded the honour of carrying a sword and wearing golden spurs while riding.
The beauty of Bellapais is legendary. Set in the mountains, just ten minutes above Kyrenia, a visit to this 14th century Lusignan abbey with its fabulous location and pervasive atmosphere of calm is a must. When the famous british author Lawrence Durrell bought a house in the village of Bellapais he felt 'guilty of an act of fearful temerity in trying to settle in so fantastic a place'.
Bellapais Abbey in North Cyprus ( it was originally known as 'Abbaye de la Paix') is one of the best examples of Lusignan Gothic architecture in the Near East, and one of the most famous architectural treasures that Northern Cyprus has. At the very heart of the beautiful mountain village of the same name, Bellapais Abbey remains a haven of peace in Cyprus to this day.
The site of Bellapais Abbey was originally home to Augustinian monks from around 1187, with construction of an abbey or monastery taking some seven years beginning around 1198 . Further significant construction work took place during the reign of King Hugh III of France between 1267 and 1284 and again during the reign of King Hugh IV between 1324 and 1359. The Order of Brothers of Premontre, who were the original occupants, named the monastery Abbaye de la Paix, but the name was changed to Bella Paise during the Venetian rule of Cyprus and then later it became known as Bellapaix before finally changing to Bellapais Abbey.
Following the Ottoman conquest of Cyprus, the monastery was given for the use of the Greek Orthodox Church and the monks were evicted. Perched high in the mountains and benefiting from unrivalled, uninterrupted and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coast, the pretty village of Ozankoy and the town of Kyrenia, the Abbey is one of the best preserved and well maintained historical sites in the Mediterranean region.
Houses with views of Bellapais Abbey are so in demand that there are waiting lists, and development in the area is restricted. If you are in any doubt of the abbey's magnificence and appeal, visit at night when the whole structure is lit from below and towers above the world beyond. A meal in one of the nearby restaurants is a perfect way to enjoy the sight and the unique atmosphere.
Visit Bellapais and you will be able to enjoy the whole abbey, as once inside you are free to explore all areas. Look out for the intricate stone carvings, the delicate murals, the immaculately preserved 13th century church, impressive columns and unforgettable eighteen arches; as well as the incredible views!
The history and features of the abbey are detailed in free brochures available from the tourist information and ticket kiosk at the abbey. It is however maybe best described in Durrell's own words; "Bellapaix, even in ruins, was a testimony to those who had tried, however imperfectly, to grasp and retain their grip on the inner substance of the imagination, which resides in thought, in contemplation, in peace". Today, the abbey remains in use as a venue for music concerts, the world renowned Northern Cyprus annual Bellapais Music Festival, operatic recitals and art exhibitions.
Bellapais is only a few miles from Kyrenia, but public transport is non-existent so you will need to take a taxi or drive. Car hire is the simplest way to visit and the Abbey itself has a large car park that nearly always has space. If you are interested in following in Lawrence Durrell's footsteps and staying in the village itself, there are a few options. Both the Abbey Inn at Bellapaix and the Residence at Bellapaix are very private, small hotels, superbly located right in the heart of the village. A few hundred yards away, built on the hillside in the shadow of Bellapais Abbey is the Bellapais Gardens Hotel. This offers traditionally-styled accommodation and a cliff-top restaurant with stunning views. Further out, but still within walking distance the Bellapais Monastery Village offers stylish, spacious accommodation and good facilities. All these hotels operate a no-child policy, so families looking to stay in the area will have to go a little further away.