Overview:

Holy Cross Church, Pelendri in Cyprus is a Church founded by the refugees who fled after the Turkish invasion of the island. It is the first church in the Community of Pelendri and serves as the main Community Centre. The Church is composed of an Orthodox Cathedral, a Catholic chapel and a Protestant chapel—allowing for a full cycle of religious services throughout the week, with two English services and one Greek service. The Church building is located within the Municipal District of Pelendri and is surrounded by a beautiful garden. Inside the Church, the faithful can find icons of Jesus Christ, the Theotokos and the major Saints. The Church interior also contains the grave of Archbishop Kareklas of Cyprus (1897-1968). The Church of The Holy Cross is open to persons of all religions and services and activities are held for the benefit of all. Besides the services offered, the Church runs a number of charitable activities aimed at helping those in need. Additionally, it serves as a starting point for walks through the surrounding area. It is open to all who are interested in learning about the history of the Church and the area of Pelendri. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Cyprus
Prominent Features:

Holy Cross Church in Pelendri, Cyprus, is a historic 19th-century church originally built by local Greek Cypriot villagers. It is one of the most picturesque churches in the village, which blends traditional Greek Orthodox architecture with more modern elements. The church has an impressive façade that features two rustic half-circular turrets, as well as a large square bell tower. The interior of the church includes a number of vibrant paintings and sculptures that illustrate the life of Jesus. Holy Cross Church is not only a beautiful place of worship, but it also serves as a reminder of the peaceful coexistence that has been brought about by the many different cultures that make up the Pelendri village. This national monument of Cyprus portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Church of the Holy Cross of Pelendri in cyprus dates back to the end of the 13th century when local Greek Cypriot farmers had to seek refuge in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains. As they were passing through or stayed a while in the area, they dedicated a small chapel to the patron saint of their voyage, the Holy Cross. Later on, when the village of Pelendri was re-established in the 17th century the church and its grounds were also re-established. During the following centuries the church structure and its services were upgraded and improved over time to accommodate the needs of the increasing population. A major restoration and reconstruction project was executed in the 19th century with the help of local armatolarchos (local militia commander). The project greatly enriched the church's iconic architecture and architectural values. What is even more remarkable is that the church efficiently survived through many centuries of civil strife and unrest in the region. During the 20th century the church was frequently robbed and vandalized, but countless local people dedicated their time and resources to meticulously restoring it back to its original and current state. The Church of the Holy Cross of Pelendri in Cyprus may be one of the oldest and most important Greek Cypriot symbols of faith and religion in the region, and it is a source of great pride and joy for the local population. The church receives many visitors every year, which is proof that its existence is still appreciated and its services are well used in the area. Though its history is profoundly colored by civil unrest and violence, it still serves as a place of worship that serves generations of Greeks and remains to be a beacon of hope in the area. You must visit one of these historical places in Cyprus on your Cyprus tour

Interesting facts:

1. Holy Cross Church is located in Pelendri village, near Troodos mountain range in Cyprus. 2. It was built in 1630 as a Greek Orthodox church, although it was renovated with Baroque architectural elements at the end of 19th century, under local masters from the nearby village of Palaichori. 3. The interior of the church is decorated with some exquisite frescoes from an unknown Cretan painter of the late 15th century. 4. It contains the grave of the Cypriot National Hero, Markos Dragoumis. 5. The Iconostasis (the partition, behind the nave, in an Orthodox Church) was built in Venice sometime between the late 16th century and early 17th century. 6. It is also home to some rare pieces of religious art, including the gilded crown of the Virgin Mary that is considered to be of great historical and artistic value. 7. An adjacent cemetery contains the graves of notable Cypriots, such as the first president of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios III, as well as former religious and military leaders. Visit one of the famous monuments of Cyprus with your friends and family.