The Cave of St Fanourios

The Cave of St Fanourios, Kyrenia - A Hidden Cliffside Pilgrimage Site in North Cyprus

The Cave of St Fanourios is one of the most unique sightseeing spots in North Cyprus, located on the rocky coastline of Karaoğlanoğlu, just west of Kyrenia (Girne). Blending Christian legend, dramatic sea views and rare fossil remains, it is a fascinating stop for visitors exploring the Kyrenia region.
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Where the Cave of St Fanourios Is

The site is situated below a small white chapel overlooking the Mediterranean. Visitors can park near the old olive oil factory or the local football ground in Karaoğlanoğlu, then walk a short path towards the sea. Stone steps lead from the chapel down to the cave built directly into the cliff.

This makes the Cave of St Fanourios an easily accessible but often overlooked Kyrenia attraction, ideal for travellers seeking authentic cultural sites.
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What You Will See

Despite its small size, the cave is an active place of worship and one of the most atmospheric religious sites in North Cyprus. Inside, you will find:

Icons of St Fanourios, the saint known for “revealing” lost things
Oil lamps, candles and personal offerings
The traditional fanouropita cake, left in thanks when prayers are answered

Just outside the entrance, the cliff face contains fossilised bones. Local tradition claims these are the remains of St Fanourios’ horse. Scientists, however, identify them as bones of the prehistoric Cyprus pygmy hippopotamus.

Above the cave sits the simple but striking chapel of St Fanourios, with wide views across the Kyrenia coastline.
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The Legend Behind the Cave

According to Orthodox tradition, St Fanourios fled Anatolia while being pursued by Saracens. Travelling with his horse, he reached the north coast of Cyprus. As the horse leapt toward the rocky shore, it fell and died, and St Fanourios sought refuge in the cave below the cliffs of today’s Karaoğlanoğlu.

Venerated as “the Revealer”, St Fanourios is the saint people pray to when they have lost something or need guidance. This is why fanouropita is baked and offered at the cave.

The legend, combined with its dramatic setting, makes the cave one of the most memorable cultural attractions in Kyrenia.
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Religious Importance Today

The site remains a functioning pilgrimage destination for Orthodox Christians. Every year on 27 August, the feast day of St Fanourios, worshippers gather at the cave and chapel for prayers.

The area has also been assessed by the Bi-communal Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage, which continues to monitor preservation and restoration needs.
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How to Visit the Cave of St Fanourios

Location: Karaoğlanoğlu, west of Kyrenia/Girne

Access: Short walk over rocky ground, then steps down to the cave
Parking: Near the football ground or old olive oil factory
Dress code: Modest clothing recommended
Best for: Cultural travellers, history enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone exploring Kyrenia’s coastline

Because of its mix of history, spirituality and geology, it is ideal to include in a Kyrenia sightseeing itinerary, alongside the castle, harbour and coastal walking routes.
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Why You Should Visit

The Cave of St Fanourios offers something rarely found in one place: a cliffside shrine, an ancient legend, and genuine prehistoric fossils. It is peaceful, visually striking, and deeply connected to the island’s religious heritage.

For travellers searching for unusual things to do in North Cyprus, this site is a must-see.