Bellapais Silk Cocoon Festival

🦋 Bellapais Silk Cocoon Festival in North Cyprus – A Celebration of Art, Tradition, and Beauty

Every spring, the charming mountain village of Bellapais in North Cyprus bursts into life with colour, culture, and creativity during the annual Silk Cocoon Festival. Set against the stunning backdrop of the historic Bellapais Abbey, this festival is one of the most picturesque and culturally rich events on the island — a must-see for visitors and locals alike.
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🌸 What Is the Bellapais Silk Cocoon Festival?

The Bellapais Silk Cocoon Festival (known locally as İpek Böceği Festivali) is an annual event celebrating the traditional silk production heritage of Cyprus. The festival pays homage to the region’s centuries-old craft of silkworm breeding and cocoon weaving — a practice that once played a vital role in the local economy.

Throughout the festival, local artisans, craftspeople, and folk performers come together to showcase their skills, offering a captivating glimpse into the artistic soul of North Cyprus.
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🎨 What to Expect at the Festival

The streets of Bellapais Village, one of the most beautiful in Northern Cyprus, transform into a vibrant open-air gallery filled with stalls, exhibitions, and performances. Visitors can expect:

• 🧵 Traditional silk cocoon art exhibitions – including intricate jewellery, embroidery, and handcrafted ornaments.

• 🎭 Cultural performances – from Turkish Cypriot folk dances to live music and theatre.

• 🍲 Local delicacies and handmade goods – sample authentic Cypriot treats, honey, olive oil, and homemade preserves.

• 👩‍🎨 Workshops and demonstrations – learn how silk is harvested, spun, and woven into beautiful designs.

• 🏛️ Guided tours of Bellapais Abbey – the 13th-century monastery offers breathtaking views over Kyrenia and the Mediterranean Sea.

The festival typically lasts for three days, drawing visitors from all over Cyprus and beyond.
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🕊️ The History Behind Silk in Cyprus

Silk production was introduced to Cyprus during the Byzantine period and flourished under Venetian and Ottoman rule. The silkworm cocoon became a symbol of rebirth and transformation, often used in Cypriot art and fashion.

Bellapais, with its tranquil setting and rich history, became a hub for silk weaving and embroidery. The Silk Cocoon Festival honours this legacy, ensuring that these ancient crafts continue to inspire new generations.
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📅 When Is the Bellapais Silk Cocoon Festival?

The festival usually takes place every May, when the weather in North Cyprus is warm and the village is in full bloom. Exact dates vary each year, so it’s best to check the Kyrenia Municipality or What’s On In TRNC for up-to-date information on the schedule, performances, and opening times.
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📍 How to Get to Bellapais

Bellapais is located just 10 minutes from Kyrenia (Girne) on the northern coast of Cyprus. It’s easily accessible by car, taxi, or local minibus. Parking is available on the outskirts of the village, with a short scenic walk up to the abbey.

If you’re visiting from other parts of the island, the drive from Nicosia (Lefkoşa) takes around 40 minutes, while from Famagusta (Gazimağusa) it’s about an hour.
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🌿 Why You Should Visit

The Bellapais Silk Cocoon Festival offers something for everyone — whether you’re an art lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy the charm of one of North Cyprus’s most beautiful villages.

It’s a festival that perfectly combines tradition, creativity, and community spirit, all under the serene Mediterranean skies.
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🏡 Explore More in Bellapais

While in Bellapais, don’t miss:
• Bellapais Abbey – the island’s most iconic Gothic landmark.
• The Tree of Idleness – famously mentioned by author Lawrence Durrell.
• Local restaurants and cafes – enjoy fresh Cypriot cuisine with a view of the coastline.
• Bellapais Music Festival – another major cultural event held at the abbey each spring.