In Kyrenia, there is an incredibly beautiful monument of French Gothic architecture, a whole complex of ancient buildings, some of which are now picturesque ruins and others have become attractive cultural centers. This is the Bellapais Abbey or White Abbey, which got its name from the color of the clothes of local monks.

The first buildings of the abbey appeared here in the 12th century. And it flourished in the 13th century, during the reign of King Hugh III. At his own expense, the monarch built a huge refectory, service rooms and equipped the monastery courtyard, making it a real gem of the complex.

In the 14th century, the flourishing monastery was almost completely looted by the Genoese attacking the island. They took away not only all the religious relics but also greatly changed the rules of life in the monastery. Earlier, strict canons had prevailed here, but later the new inhabitants of the abbey began to behave much more simply. The monks began to hide out with beautiful ladies, and some even had the reputation of polygamists.

For more than two centuries, the abbey lived an easy and unpretentious life under the cover of religious rules. But the Ottoman Empire, which set foot on the island, completely ruined the complex and drove the unrighteous monks out.

Today, the Abbaye de la Belle Paix is a beautiful archaeological complex where several grand buildings are still well preserved. For example, the high tower that served as the entrance to the monastery courtyard. Graceful arches with stone baths were used for washing hands.

The refectory hall is also preserved. And all thanks to the fact that during the British reign on the territory of Cyprus, it was used as a shooting gallery, and the British, though minimally, but still maintained the condition of the old building. Today the former refectory is one of the most popular concert venues in the country.

The complex itself is very romantic. You can spend an entire day strolling through the streets, exploring the beautiful walls and preserved buildings, with a break for delicious coffee in an open-air café. The Abbaye de la Belle Paix is definitely worth seeing with your own eyes.