Do you dream of a Bellapais Abbey Wedding ?
The history
Bellapais Abbey “The Abbey of Peace”
The Abbey of Bellapais has drawn visitors worldwide to the island of Cyprus since medieval times when the abbey was built. From the pilgrims who trod the ancient paths in search of a miracle, through to the tourists of today, the abbey is a popular destination and the perfect location for your wedding.
Bellapais Monastery was founded in the early 13thC by the Augustinian friars, who were evicted from the city of Jerusalem. After it fell to Saladin, the first church was established under Aimery Lusignan who ruled 1194-1205. The ecclesiastical building we see today has undergone many changes and been called by different names. It has been “Our blessed Lady Mary of the Mountains”, “L’Abbaye Blanche”, The White Abbey, “Abbaye de la Paix” from which came the Venetian corruption of Bellapais that has changed very little in the 21stC.
The Abbey Church is dedicated to Ayia Asprophorusa, “Our Lady of the White Garments”. Thus making it the perfect backdrop for your wedding ceremony.
The abbey was blessed with a piece of the True Cross, which was a gift from a French Cruading knight. It has received many monetary gifts over the years from pilgrims and the abbey grew in riches and pride. and with abundant monetary donations from a succession of grateful pilgrims, the abbey grew in richness and pride. It was once a venue for the pious, and the wealthy, and was much favoured by the ruling Lusignan royal family.
Location
The abbey is located in Bellapais which overlooks the stunning coastline of Kyrenia. It stands proud and is truly magnificent. Bellapais has lovely quaint local cafes, restaurants, tourist shops. It is the focal point for the village and hosts music concerts and exhibitions. Bellapais is approximately five kilometres (3 miles) from the town of Kyrenia (Girne).
The abbey is perched on the mountainside above Kyrenia. It commands spectacular views of Kyrenia, the coastline and Mediterranean Sea. Therefore it is a most attractive location for wedding ceremonies and popular with photographers.
Hotels
There are a number of boutique hotels in the village which offer very comfortable accommodation for you and your guests. Bellapais abbey boutique hotel is the nearest to the abbey. Here are a few others to have a look at.
www.bellapaisgardens.com, www.bellaview.net www.cyprus-ambelia.com
Some people prefer to stay at a large hotel with many facilities. However, there are so many beautiful hotels in Kyrenia you are spoilt for choice. You can choose a package holiday or even rent a villa – the choice is yours. Restaurants and hotels in Bellapais offer packages to suit your budget for your wedding reception.
Your wedding ceremony
What better way to celebrate your love than with a unique ceremony created just for you by me a qualified, experienced celebrant.
Your wedding day is probably the most exciting and special day of your life. I want to make it memorable for you and your guests. When you choose a Bellapais Abbey wedding I will work with you, using words which feel natural and comfortable for you. Together we will create a bespoke ceremony which reflects your love and lives, but also your beliefs, personalities and values. A ceremony which is just the way you want it. Hopefully we will have some fun too because it’s important to enjoy the day.
Your story, your vows, your promises, in your words… means your ceremony will be as individual as you.
Please check out my websites www.cypruscelebrant.com and www.celebrantrosieanstey.com for further details about ceremonies, special elements and answers to your questions.
Locations to host your reception.
You are spoilt for choice in Kyrenia. Whether you want a simple reception for just a few people, or a big lavish affair there are options to suit every budget.
How do we organise everything?
You’ve decided you want to have your wedding abroad, but don’t know where to start with the planning. I understand that organising a wedding can be daunting. Because I live here, I have an experienced team of wedding professionals who will take away the stress and help make your day perfect. From florists, wedding planners, DJ’s, hair & make-up professionals, photographers, transport etc we have everything covered. Remember North Cyprus is comparatively inexpensive compared to the UK and many other European destinations. It offers very good value for money, and has a long wedding season due to the warm sunny Mediterranean climate.
Some things to think about
Firstly – choose a location
Secondly – decide on a date
Thirdly – set a budget
Fourthly – start planning, don’t leave things to the last minute.
In conclusion. A Bellapais Abbey wedding is the perfect backdrop for your special day, vow renewal or blessing. Remember, if you prefer you can just come to Bellapais to have your wedding photos. You can have your ceremony elsewhere.