The Treasure of Bellapais

By Esha Bajaj

Bellapais Abbey

Ballapais, a small village in the Kyrenia District of Northern Cyprus, is best known for the Bellapais Abbey, also known as the Abbey of Peace. It was built in the 13th century by the canons regular of the Premonstratensian order, and although it is in ruins today, its beauty remains immortalized in both the magnificent, adorned arches which line it, as well as the view from the top, which canvases the Kyrenia district and the Mediterranean sea. Monastic buildings surround the monument on the north side, an extremely significant feature, for in Britain, these buildings would have appeared on the south side. This anomaly illustrates the impact Cyprus had on its conquerors, for instead of following convention and erecting the Monastic buildings on the south side, the climate of the island nation demanded they be placed on the north in order to allow the residents of the buildings access to the cool breezes of the north in the midst of the hot Mediterranean climate of Cyprus.

Join Philomobile to see Bellapais with your own eyes! Click here for more information.

Our Mission: Revamped

Philomobile is a travel organization designed for those who want more from their vacations than bland resorts, overcrowded museum tours, and a beach tan. World travel is first and foremost a sensual experience, but at Philomobile we also deliver intellectual pleasure. Instead of cheap trinkets, your souvenirs will be a satisfied mind and body.

Philomobile, literally means “moving philosophy” so think of us as a modern day peripatetic school, that offers a unique blend of academic tourism and cultural education. We emphasize learning on site, and our trips are designed for those interested in culture. All Philomobile projects have an instructional component led by experienced professors from accredited universities and colleges, combined with sightseeing led by regional tour guides. In addition, every trip explores the literature, fine art, science, religions, and historical context within which philosophy flourished.

At Philomobile we welcome curious adventurers from educational and cultural institutions, retirees, and the general public. From the golden age of philosophy in ancient Greece to existentialism in France, and from the Islamic conquest of Spain to Nietzsche scholarship in Germany, we offer an array of diverse travel packages at competitive prices. While our current travel courses are all on the European continent, we hope to expand to more corners of the globe in the future.

If you want more out of travel than being just another tourist lost in the anonymous crowd, we encourage Socratic dialogue between our travelers. So if you are a free spirit who craves stimulating discussions and exposure to new cultures, please join us on one of our journeys.

Philomobile projects are designed for those who are interested in the adventure of studying philosophy on the road. For specific trips, please see our schedule.