Rare glimpses into the hidden treasures of Cyprus's historic Kykko Monastery

Cyprus 1969 Reel 60 of 65 · 17:42 · Video: Penn Museum · Watch at the source

In short: This archival footage from 1969 captures the architectural landmarks of Famagusta and rare, privileged access to the sacred treasury of the Kykko Monastery. It offers a unique visual record of religious artifacts and historic sites that are seldom documented.

Filmed on June 24 and 25, 1969, the footage documents the layered history of Famagusta, including the Sea Gate, Othello Castle, and the city's numerous stone churches and mosques. The camera captures the structural details of a partially demolished church, revealing high arched windows and domes.

The second half of the reel provides a rare look inside the Kykko Monastery treasury. The collection includes ornate Russian communion vessels, a gold-embossed velvet crown worn by Makarios, and various Gospels dating from 1766 to 1856. These items, alongside a carved reliquary box containing saints' bones, highlight the intersection of Greek, Russian, and Venetian religious craftsmanship.

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