|
|||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Church of Ayios Lazaros The 9th-century church dedicated to St Lazarus in Larnaca is one of the most important religious sites in Cyprus. The Bysantine Emporer Leo VI built the church over what was believed to be the empty tomb of Lazarus. It is thought that Lazarus may have lived here for the 30 years following his resurrection before going to his final resting place in Marseilles, France. Every year just before Easter there is a procession carrying a wood carved icon of Lazarus through the town. This is an occasion of particular importance for the religious community of Larnaca and attracts quite a large number of people. Stavrouvouni Monastery Founded by Saint Helena in the 4th century, Stavrouvouni is the oldest Monastery in Cyprus. It contains an important relic - a fragment of the Holy Cross. The monastery is unique in that it is only open to men; women are not allowed inside. Kykkos Monastery Kykkos became quite famous in 1997 when it was believed that an Icon of the Virgin Mary wept there for an entire month. Thousands of people gathered to see the miracle at the time. It is still talked about to this day and will continue to be discussed for some time to come. |