The location of the abbey on the northern slopes of the Kyrenia Hills is marvellous. Below are almond and olive groves on the coastal plain with Kyrenia in miniature to the west.
Augustinian canons founded the abbey at the end of the 12th century , its importance lasting for some 300 years.
Substantial parts collapsed long ago . the cloister is half ruined, flamboyant tracery hangs down from the pointed arches.
On the north side is the refectory, where the vault appears to spring lightly from the supporting capitals. An exquisite pulpit is reached by an intricate stair ingeniously constructed in the thickness of the wall . the 13th century church is generally locked, but the custodian may open it on request.
In 1995 forest fires swept through the Kyrenian Hills, advancing rapidly on Beylerbeyi (Bellapais).
It was only good fortune and the skill of the fire fighters that prevented the destruction of Beylerbeyi in July 1995.
Related posts:
Tags: Abbey, Bellapais, Bellapais Abbey, GIRNE, north cyprus, north cyprus holiday, north cyprus hotels, northern cyprus