Orthodox treasures of Nicossia. Departure from Paphos

Orthodox shrines of Cyprus attract a huge number of pilgrims to the island, as well as people who are interested in the history and culture of Christianity. On this trip we will visit the oldest and most famous of the Orthodox shrines, which are located near the capital of Cyprus. Namely:

- The Cathedral of John the Theologian

Church of Saints Barnabas and Hilarion

Temple of Saints Justina and Cyprian

Church of Panaya Chrysospiliotisse

- Monastery of Iraklidos

*Prices are based on departure from the city. paphos

In the heart of old Nicosia in the Cathedral of St. John, the coronation of the Archbishop of Cyprus takes place. Small in size and modest in appearance, it amazes with its interior decoration: illuminated by crystal chandeliers rich golden iconostasis, bright interior, decorated with frescoes walls. St. John’s Cathedral is the only church in Nicosia whose interior wall paintings are preserved in full.

27 km west of Nicossia on the road to Troodos in the village of Peristerona on the banks of the Setrachos River is the Church of Saints Barnabas and Hilarion. The church was built in X-XI centuries. It is an outstanding example of Cypriot architecture of the Byzantine period. According to the type of construction, the church is transitional from the basilica to the cross-domed temple. This church is probably on the foundation of an earlier building. Inside the temple there are fragments of frescoes of the XII and XV centuries. The icons in the iconostasis date from the same period.

The Church of Cyprian and Justina does not belong to the sights that are usually visited when coming to Cyprus for the first time. It is located in the village of Menico, 20 km west of the capital of the island, away from the main tourist routes.

According to the chronicle, the church of St. Cyprian was built in the XIV century. Preserved frescoes, amazing beauty carved iconostasis of 1818, icons of the early XVI century.

But the main treasure of the church are the relics of Saints Cyprian and Justina, whose history has become a magnificent illustration of the fact that true faith is stronger than demonic charms. It is believed that the relics protect against the evil eye and generally from the bad influence of strangers.

Panaya Chrysospiliotissa Cave Church in Kato Deftera is one of the most ancient holy places in Cyprus, where people prayed to the Asia Minor pagan goddess of fertility in the Bronze Age. This church (the name translates as Lady of the Golden Cave) is a typical example of a hermit’s dwelling. The icon of the Virgin Mary, which causes rain, is kept in the church, and she is turned to for help during periods of drought. Girls come here to beg the Virgin for future offspring and happiness in marriage. They bring their gifts as gifts.

The Monastery of St. Heraklidia is located 18 km southwest of Nicosia, in the village of Politico, next to the ruins of the ancient city-state of Tomasos. The monastery arose around 400 AD next to the tomb of St. Heraclidius, then repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt. Saint Heraclidius is a disciple and follower of the apostles Paul, Barnabas and Mark. He was Bishop of Tamassos, and after his martyrdom he was buried in a cave that can now be seen from the eastern side of the monastery temple. The monastery is of interest to Cyprus researchers from historical, archaeological and architectural points of view. Its appearance reflects the entire history of the Orthodox Church of Cyprus, since the IV century.

What goes into value
Transport from and to the place of residence, escort and guide services.

What does not enter into value
Food.

What to bring with you:
Clothing suitable for visiting Christian temples.

The starting point of the tour:
Your hotel.