Overview:

Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church is one of the oldest churches in the region of Paphos, built in the 4th century, and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The chapel lies in the picturesque Steni area of Cyprus, close to the village of Polis and the Akamas area, and it is the largest and most well-preserved Byzantine monument still standing in Paphos. The church is constructed in the traditional Greek Byzantine style and made of salmon-pink limestone. The building is best known for its magnificent mosaic floors, which depict numerous religious scenes and saints from both early and late Christian period. It is believed to have been one of the most affluent at the time due to its large size, intricate mosaics and the abundance of gold and silver pieces that were discovered during excavations of the area. The walls of Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church are adorned with inscriptions in various languages, including Greek, Latin, Hebrew, Syriac and Armenian. Its interior houses two separate naves, both with three aisles and five domes, as well as a variety of frescoes. The Church also contains the tombs of two of its previous Abbots and several important artifacts. Today, Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church is a protected architectural site, open to visitors who want to explore its fascinating history. Guided tours and lectures are available for visitors who wish to learn more about its architectural resume and historical background. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Cyprus
Prominent Features:

1. A Byzantine-style architecture: The Church of Panagia Chrysopolitissa is a Byzantine-style church situated in the old town of Paphos, Cyprus. It is highly recognisable due to its dome roof, walls, centred round structure and painted wall frescoes. 2. Ancient tombs and ruins: The church is believed to be built on the ruins of an ancient necropolis dating back to the 4th century BC. This can be seen from the various tombs located within the church's compound. 3. An impressive 18th Century bell tower: A single domed bell tower constructed in the 18th century stands at the entrance of the Church of Panagia Chrysopolitissa. In addition to the bell tower, the church houses a number of gravestones and other artifacts. 4. Wall frescoes: Inside the main sacristy of the church are some ancient but still vivid wall frescoes, which depict various religious scenes. 5. Historical significance: The Church of Panagia Chrysopolitissa is believed to be the site where St. Paul and St. Barnabas preached when they first arrived in Cyprus on their missionary journey. This national monument of Cyprus portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church is a Byzantine-style church located in the city of Paphos in Cyprus. It is one of the oldest churches in Cyprus and is thought to date back to the early 10th century. The church was originally built as a basilica with a cross-in-square form and a dome. It is believed to have been built during the early Byzantine period when the city was under Greek influence. The Cathedral of Saint Priscos and Saint Titou, which was built in Paphos in the 12th century, was the city's main church until the 15th century, when the Panagia Chrysopolitissa was renovated and became the main church. It was built adjacent to a monastery and a convent of the same name, and was dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which gave the church its current name. The church underwent a number of renovations over the centuries, most notably during the 18th century, when the building was restored to its current form. Today, the church is used as a place of worship for the Greek Orthodox faith and also serves as a popular tourist attraction. The Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church is notable for its beautiful and unique interior. The church is made up of three naves, each containing five columns and each nave being filled with exceptional painted frescoes between the columns. The frescoes were added in the 18th century and depict various scenes from the Bible. The dome of the church contains detailed paintings of the Virgin Mary and angels, and the ceiling of the church is decorated with beautiful tiles and paintings. The Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church is a popular destination for both religious pilgrimage and sightseeing. The church is even a part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which showcases its importance to the region. The church continues to be an important cultural symbol of Paphos and Cyprus as a whole. You must visit one of these historical places in Cyprus on your Cyprus tour

Interesting facts:

1. Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church is the oldest church in Paphos, Cyprus. It was built in the 6th century and is still standing today. 2. The church was named after a goldsmith who found the remains of a chapel in the area and decided to build a larger and more elaborate church. 3. It is believed to be the place where the Apostle Paul willed his converts to Christianity. 4. The church is built on a rocky plateau surrounded by three distinct mountains. 5. The interior features frescoes of Byzantine art which depict scenes from the life of Jesus. 6. The walls are adorned with icons of various saints, including Saint George and the Virgin Mary. 7. The church is home to the miraculous icon of St. George which is believed to be responsible for Paphos's miraculous healing water that runs near the church. 8. Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church is an important pilgrimage site for many Orthodox Christians throughout the world. 9. The church is an active place of worship to this day and celebrations are often held there. 10. Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church is an official UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit one of the famous monuments of Cyprus with your friends and family.