
Throni Hill, located about 3 km northwest of Kykkos Monastery in the Troodos Mountains, is a place of great historical and spiritual importance in Cyprus. At an elevation of around 1,450 meters, it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and Mount Olympus. The hill is best known as the final resting place of Archbishop Makarios III, the first President of Cyprus, who chose this site for his burial because it is close to Kykkos Monastery, where he started his monastic life in 1926.
The tomb is a semi-underground structure designed with black marble and topped by a dome, creating a peaceful and dignified atmosphere. Nearby stands a large bronze statue of Makarios III, which was originally located at the Archbishop's Palace in Nicosia but was moved to Throni Hill in 2008 as a tribute to his legacy. Beyond the tomb, the hill is home to the Shrine of the Virgin Mary, known as the "Throni of Panagia." Historically, monks carried the icon of the Virgin Mary here during droughts to seek divine help.
Today, a modern chapel with Byzantine architectural features sits at the summit, offering a quiet place for prayer and reflection. Throni Hill remains a popular pilgrimage spot, attracting locals and visitors alike who want to pay their respects and enjoy the calm beauty of the Troodos Mountains.