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Byzantine Museum of Saint Lazarus: A Glimpse into Larnaca's Ecclesiastical Past

Discover Byzantine art and religious artifacts at the Museum of Saint Lazarus, offering a glimpse into Larnaca's spiritual heritage.

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Nestled within the historic Church of Saint Lazarus in Larnaca, the Byzantine Museum offers a captivating journey into the island's rich Byzantine heritage. The museum showcases a collection of religious icons, artifacts, and ecclesiastical treasures from the Byzantine and post-Byzantine periods.

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Local tips

  • Visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds for a more intimate experience.
  • Take time to read the descriptions beside each artifact for a richer understanding of the exhibits.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll around the adjacent Church of Saint Lazarus for a complete cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Byzantine Museum of Saint Lazarus is located in Agios Lazaros Square in the center of Larnaca. From Finikoudes Beach, walk inland towards the Church of Saint Lazarus; the museum is adjacent to the church. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Public transportation in Larnaca consists mainly of buses. Several bus routes serve the city center. From the central bus station on Finikoudes Boulevard, walk towards the Church of Saint Lazarus. The museum is located adjacent to the church. Bus fares range from €1.50 to €2.50 depending on the time of day.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Larnaca. A taxi from Larnaca International Airport to the Byzantine Museum of Saint Lazarus takes about 15-20 minutes and costs around €20. A short taxi ride within the city center will likely cost between €5 and €10.

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Discover more about Byzantine Museum of Saint Lazarus

The Byzantine Museum of Saint Lazarus, located within the historic Church of Saint Lazarus in Larnaca, provides a glimpse into the city's rich spiritual and cultural identity. The museum's story is linked to Saint Lazarus, who, according to Cypriot tradition, fled to Cyprus after being resurrected by Jesus. He was later ordained as the first Bishop of Kition (present-day Larnaca). The museum's collection began in 1922 when Dr. Neoklis Kyriazis gathered Byzantine icons and ecclesiastical objects. The museum was initially housed in the mutual-teaching school. After a period of looting and loss in the 1960s, the museum was reconstituted and reopened in 1990. The museum exhibits are divided into five rooms, each showcasing a different aspect of Byzantine art and culture. Visitors can admire antique Bibles, liturgical clothing, metal vessels, candlesticks, and wooden sculptures. One of the highlights is its collection of Byzantine icons, created with meticulous detail and vibrant colors, depicting scenes from the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints. The church itself is a magnificent example of Byzantine architecture, dating back to the 9th century. Emperor Leo VI of Byzantium built the church over Lazarus's tomb. While the original structure has undergone several restorations and additions throughout the centuries, it retains its Byzantine character and charm.

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