We visited The Panagia Chrysopolitissa church and surrounding ruins as we were drawn to the attraction from so many centuries ago. The church was built in the 13th century over the ruins of the largest Early Byzantine basilica on the island. Within the compound one can see St. Paul's Pillar, where according to tradition Saint Paul was flogged before the Roman Governor Sergius Paulus was converted to Christianity. The floor of the basilica was covered with colourful mosaics, some of which are still preserved but poorly with much of the dye weathered away over the centuries. There are extensive columns within the compound and a raised walkway through them but very little in the way of information displayed and the ruins themselves were poorly protected and, where reconstruction had taken place, the restorations were very poorly executed. A great shame and very sad that architectural remains from millenias past should be so poorly restored and preserved. I understand the Cypriot economy may not be able to support the level of preservation work required at this and other sites but I understand this and other sites are on the UNESCO protected list so where is the international finacial support and expertise?
Amazing way to get in touch with your own spirituality.. Loved everything about this place - the church, the St. Paul's Pillar, the atmosphere of this place.
I've been meaning to go here for years and have never found it.. Driving around lost on Saturday we went past it and found somewhere to park really easy as its off season now.The site is amazing, so much stuff. The church is very welcoming. I put some Euros in the collection box to pay for candles that we lit. It's very atmospheric. Very. Spend some time and sit and relax and contemplate. Definitely worth a visit,.
Every time we try to find a different monastery to visit we end up at this one! Having said that, I don't mind as the byzantine icons and golden altarpiece are joyous to behold.
Set in behind restaurants and housing but worth the visit. Pretty little church in the middle of ancient ruins, added attraction is st paul's pillar.
In a quiet back street this little church and ancient remains is a tranquil place to meander.Information boards help to picture what the various ruins could have looked like. Some of the terms used were a bit vague though.Pretty mosaic floors.
we stumbled across this taking a short cut behind Debenhams, it's beautiful old church that is still in use, we visited it on a Sunday morning when mass was being read, there's some fascinating history with it along with st Pauls pillar,
Panagia Chrysopolitissa church (13th c) is built on ruins of a huge early christian basilica (4th c). This is an excellent place for reflection, which many of the modern churches lack, as the gilded iconostas combined with the old bare stone walls of the church create a special atmosphere.
This church, located beside the site of the Pillar of St Paul, has no entry fee and is worth a look. The entire site is well built for touring as the walkways are new and very accessible.
A little gem! Wonderful medieval church set amongst ancient ruins. The site is free and has elevated walkways over it so you see it without clambering over it. Absolutely wonderful little church, well worth a visit, beautiful interior. Stunning at night with it's chandeliars on, and candles lit. very atmospheric and photogenic. Not far from the Harbour area, within easy walking distance. Also has a really nice nice restaurant close by (St Paul's Pillar Restaurant) with cold drinks and an extensive menu as an added bonus. The site is free, but if you visit the church, don't forget to drop a Euro or two in the collection pot! Shawls are available for ladies to wrap round their waist, if they're wearing shorts.