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Holy Church of Saint Lazarus: A Byzantine Masterpiece

Discover the spiritual heart of Larnaca at the Holy Church of Saint Lazarus, a stunning Byzantine church built over the tomb of the revered saint, showcasing Cyprus's rich religious history.

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The Holy Church of Saint Lazarus, a magnificent example of Byzantine architecture, stands proudly in the heart of Larnaca. Built in the late 9th century by Emperor Leo VI, this stone church is dedicated to Saint Lazarus, who, according to Orthodox tradition, fled to Cyprus after being resurrected by Jesus and later became the first Bishop of Kition (ancient Larnaca). The church, with its intricate stonework, houses the tomb of Saint Lazarus and an ecclesiastical museum. The church's serene atmosphere and rich history make it a must-visit destination for those seeking spiritual solace or wishing to admire its artistic and architectural grandeur. The vibrant square surrounding the church offers a blend of spiritual exploration and leisure, with quaint cafes and shops adding to its charm. Visitors can explore the stunning interior adorned with ornate icons and an elaborate altar, making it a perfect spot for reflection and admiration.

A brief summary to Holy Church of Saint Lazarus

  • Monday 8 am-6:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-6:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-6:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-6:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-6:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6:30 pm
  • Sunday 6:30 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience a more peaceful atmosphere.
  • Dress modestly when visiting the church; shoulders and knees should be covered as a sign of respect.
  • Explore the Ecclesiastical Museum adjacent to the church to delve deeper into the history and religious artifacts associated with Saint Lazarus.
  • Attend the procession of Saint Lazarus, held eight days before Easter, to witness a significant religious event and local tradition.
  • Take time to enjoy the cafes and shops in the square surrounding the church, offering a perfect blend of spiritual exploration and leisure.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in Larnaca city center, such as near Finikoudes promenade, the Holy Church of Saint Lazarus is easily accessible on foot. Head inland, away from the sea, towards Ayiou Lazarou Street. The walk is approximately 1 km and takes about 12-15 minutes. Look for signposts directing you to the church. The church is located in Ayiou Lazarou Square.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the church by public transport from within Larnaca, take a local bus to the 'Ayiou Lazarou' bus stop. Buses that service this stop include routes that pass through the city center. A single journey typically costs around €1.50. From the bus stop, the church is a short walk away, located at WJ6M+JW3 Πλατεία. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt are readily available in Larnaca. A taxi from Larnaca Port to the Holy Church of Saint Lazarus will cost approximately €13-18 and take around 10 minutes, depending on traffic. From Larnaca Airport (LCA), a taxi ride to the church will cost around €18-20 and take approximately 15 minutes.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate towards Larnaca city center and follow signs for Ayiou Lazarou Church. The church is located on Ayiou Lazarou Square. Parking is available in the vicinity, with parking fees ranging from €1 to €2 per hour. Be aware that parking spaces can be limited, especially during peak tourist season.

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Discover more about Holy Church of Saint Lazarus

The Holy Church of Saint Lazarus, or Agios Lazaros, is a captivating testament to Larnaca's rich cultural and religious heritage. Located in the heart of the city, this late 9th-century church is one of the most significant examples of Byzantine architecture in Cyprus, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike. The church is dedicated to Saint Lazarus of Bethany, a prominent figure in the New Testament. According to Eastern Orthodox tradition, Lazarus fled Judea after being resurrected by Jesus, seeking refuge on the island of Cyprus. Here, he was appointed by the Apostles Paul and Barnabas as the first Bishop of Kition, the ancient city upon which modern Larnaca is built. Lazarus is said to have lived in Kition for thirty more years, and upon his death, he was buried here for the second and final time. The Church of Agios Lazaros was erected over what is believed to be his second tomb. The history of the church is as rich and layered as its stonework. Tradition holds that the location of Lazarus's tomb was lost during the period of Arab rule, which began in 649 AD. However, in 890 AD, a tomb was discovered bearing the inscription "Lazarus, four days dead, friend of Christ." Emperor Leo VI of Byzantium, a devout admirer of Saint Lazarus, had the saint's remains transferred to Constantinople in 898 AD. In recompense, he ordered the construction of the Church of Saint Lazarus over the tomb, which was completed in the late 9th to early 10th centuries. The architectural style of the church reflects its long and varied history. It is an elongated building, measuring 31.5 x 14.5 meters, with a tripartite sanctuary and semicircular apses internally. The interior is divided into three aisles by bulky double pillars and arched openings, which support the domes and form the central aisle. The north and south aisles feature semi-cylindrical roofs intersected by cross-vaults. The stonework primarily consists of square limestone blocks, each about a meter thick. During the Frankish and Venetian periods (13th to 16th centuries), when Cyprus was under Roman Catholic rule, the church was used as a Roman Catholic church, and a Gothic-style stone-covered portico was added to its south side. The three imposing domes and the original bell tower were destroyed, likely during the early years of Ottoman rule after 1571 AD, when the church was converted into a mosque. In 1589, the Ottomans sold the church back to the Orthodox community, likely due to the presence of a Christian cemetery. For the next two centuries, it served both Orthodox and Catholic congregations. Traces of Greek, Latin, and French inscriptions can still be seen on the porch. In 1857, after Ottoman authorities permitted Cypriot churches to have bell towers once more, the church's bell tower was rebuilt in a Latinate style. The intricate woodcarving of the church's unique baroque iconostasis was created between 1773 and 1782 by Chatzisavvas Taliadorou. The iconostasis was then gold-plated between 1793 and 1797. Some of the icons were painted in the late 18th century by Michael Proskynetes from Marathasa, and Hatzimichael completed the iconography of the iconostasis in 1797. Today, the Church of Saint Lazarus stands as a magnificent testament to faith, history, and art. Visitors can explore the main church, descend into the crypt to see the Tomb of Saint Lazarus, and visit the small museum that houses a collection of religious icons and artifacts. The church is open to the public daily, with varying hours depending on the season. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. The square surrounding the church is a vibrant hub of activity, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. It's a perfect place to relax, soak in the atmosphere, and appreciate the beauty of this historical landmark. The annual procession in honor of Saint Lazarus, held eight days before Easter, is a major event in Larnaca, drawing large crowds and showcasing the deep reverence for the saint. Whether you are drawn by religious significance, architectural beauty, or historical intrigue, the Holy Church of Saint Lazarus offers a profound and unforgettable experience. It is a place where the past comes alive, where faith is palpable, and where the spirit of Saint Lazarus continues to inspire.

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