Monastery of Ayia Napa. Part 1

During such a hot months, the air is so heated that it becomes thick and heavy, turning the whole world into a picture of an adept Impressionist.

The red-hot walls of the ancient monastery seem to have gotten used to the hot sun kisses, to the crowds of tourists, to cats scurrying in search of a shadow and the never-ending noise of the resort town.

But entering the massive gate of the once functioning monastery - you're coming to a completely different world. A small sun-drenched courtyard with several saving wide trees. Here is the oldest in Cyprus ficus, and age-old palms, and inactive, but such a wonderful fountain.

Like a duchess from the past, I'm walking between the majestic arches leading to the former cells of the monks.

I almost don't hear the noise of the city here, in this oasis among discos, beaches, attractions.
And I completely immerse myself to the atmosphere of relaxation.

I sit down on a bench in the shade of a lush tree, the birds sing, the sun breaking through the branches caressing their marvelous plumage, the butterfly flew near me and froze like in a photo-frame of brown wall. The smell of flowering bushes is so sweet and it complements this incredible atmosphere. The sensation is , as if all the time, all the centuries of history, closed in one loop in this yard.

How many monks and parishioners could sit on this place several centuries ago!
How many invaders could find their peace and forgiveness in these magical walls!

The monastery of Agia Napa is located in the homonymous village in Ammochostos District. The village got its name from the "Icon of Virgin Mary of Napes", which means "the Saint of the woods" and thus, she was named "Agia Napa". This is how the village got its name, Agia Napa, "Holy Forest". http://www.ayianapa.org.cy/monastery.php?lang=en