The Holy Church of Saint Lazarus in Larnaca, Cyprus, is a significant historical and religious landmark. Dedicated to Lazarus of Bethany, the church was built by Byzantine Emperor Leo VI in the late 9th century to honour the saint and house his relics.
Saint Lazarus: Lazarus of Bethany is a biblical figure known for being resurrected by Jesus four days after his death, as the Gospel of John recounted. Following his resurrection, Lazarus fled to Cyprus due to threats on his life in Judea. He was appointed as the first Bishop of Kition (modern-day Larnaca) by Paul the Apostle and Barnabas, and he lived for another 30 years before dying again and being buried in Larnaca.
Church History and Architecture: The Church of Saint Lazarus was constructed over the saint's second tomb, rediscovered in 890 AD, with an inscription stating, "Lazarus, four days dead, a friend of Christ." In 898 AD, Lazarus' relics were transferred to Constantinople, but the church remained a significant pilgrimage site. The church is a prime example of Byzantine architecture, featuring three aisles supported by bulky double pillars and a unique tripartite sanctuary.
During the Frankish and Venetian periods, the church was converted to a Roman Catholic church, and a Gothic-style entrance was added. Under Ottoman rule, the church was turned into a mosque, and the original domes and bell tower were destroyed. In 1589, it was sold back to the Orthodox community, and it remained a shared place of worship for Orthodox and Catholics until the 18th century.
Restoration and Current Status: The church has undergone several restorations, especially after significant damage from a fire in 1970. The baroque iconostasis, a masterpiece of woodcarving, was gold-plated and partially restored. Human remains believed to be those of Saint Lazarus were found during these restorations.
Today, the Church of Saint Lazarus is a testament to Larnaca's rich religious history, combining elements from different architectural styles and periods. Visitors can explore the church, its crypt, and the nearby Byzantine Museum, which houses various ecclesiastical artefacts.
This guide will introduce us to Larnaca and Lefkara, a seaside city and mountain village revealing Cyprus's essence. Larnaca is an ancient city with a rich history of Greeks and Turks, where the Church of Saint Lazarus—one of the most important sanctuaries of the Orthodox world—coexists with the Mosque of Umm Haram, the fourth most significant mosque in the Muslim world.
We will stroll through the streets of Larnaca, admire the murals, and experience the charm of this Mediterranean city undergoing renewal.
Next, we will visit perhaps the most famous village in Cyprus—Lefkara, renowned for its unique embroidery and silver craftsmanship traditions, and the church that houses a relic of the True Cross on which Jesus was crucified. Beyond these significant historical sites and events, you will be captivated by the charm of Cyprus, its peaceful nooks, enduring traditions, and serene atmosphere.
Cyprus is embodied in its mountain villages, where its heart and soul reside.