Byzantine Church of Agia Paraskevi: A Geroskipou Gem
Discover the Agia Paraskevi Byzantine Church in Geroskipou: a unique 9th-century architectural treasure with stunning frescoes and a serene atmosphere.
Nestled in the village of Geroskipou, just east of Paphos, the Agia Paraskevi Byzantine Church stands as a remarkable testament to Cyprus's rich history and religious heritage. Dating back to the 9th century, this architectural gem is one of only two five-domed, three-aisled, barrel-vaulted basilicas on the island, making it a significant example of Byzantine architecture. Inside, visitors are greeted by an atmosphere of serenity and awe, surrounded by beautiful frescoes that span various periods from the 8th to the 15th centuries. These well-preserved wall paintings depict biblical scenes and the lives of saints, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic traditions of the time. A notable discovery during restoration was a monochrome reddish cross painted directly on the stone, dating back to the Early Christian period. The church also houses a significant portable, double-sided icon from the 15th century, featuring the Virgin Mary on one side and the Crucifixion on the other. According to local tradition, Geroskipou was once home to the sacred gardens of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. Some historians suggest that the church may have been built on the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to Aphrodite, although it could also have been originally dedicated to Timios Stavros (the Holy Cross). Today, it is dedicated to the Christian martyr Agia Paraskevi. A visit to the Agia Paraskevi Byzantine Church offers a unique opportunity to explore Cyprus's layered spiritual history and appreciate the beauty of Byzantine art and architecture.
Local tips
- Combine your visit with a stroll through Geroskipou village to experience local life and sample traditional sweets.
- Note that photography is not allowed inside the church to preserve the sacred atmosphere and artwork.
- Check the opening hours before your visit, as they may be subject to change.
A brief summary to Byzantine Church of Agia Paraskevi
- Αγίας Παρασκευής 1-1, Yeroskipou, 8201, CY
- +35726821000
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Paphos, the Agia Paraskevi Church is easily accessible by bus. Several bus routes connect Paphos to Geroskipou, including the 613. Board the bus at a central Paphos station like Evagora Pallikaridi - Charalambou Mouskou. The journey to Geroskipou takes approximately 5 minutes. Once in Geroskipou, the church is a short walk from the bus stop on Archiep. Makariou C` Ave. Follow local signs to Agia Paraskevi Church in the village square. A single bus fare from Paphos to Geroskipou is approximately €2. Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Paphos and offer a convenient way to reach the Agia Paraskevi Church in Geroskipou. A taxi ride from Paphos to Geroskipou typically takes around 4 minutes. The approximate cost for a taxi from Paphos to Geroskipou ranges from €8 to €10. Note that taxi fares may vary depending on the time of day and the taxi company.
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Walking
For those who enjoy walking, the Agia Paraskevi Church is accessible on foot from Paphos. The walk from Paphos to Geroskipou is approximately 3.7 kilometers and takes around 44 minutes. Follow the main road (Archiep. Makariou C` Ave.) eastwards from Paphos towards Geroskipou. Upon reaching Geroskipou, follow local signs to the Agia Paraskevi Church in the village square.
Attractions Nearby to Byzantine Church of Agia Paraskevi
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Central Square Geroskipou
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Sculpture Park
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Aphrodite Delights - Loukoumia Geroskipou
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Savvas Pottery (Paphos) Ltd
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Island Cove Adventure Mini Golf
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Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark
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Church Panayia Pantanassa
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Pafos Luna Park
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Rikkos Beach
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Papludimys
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Saint Nicholas Church Paphos
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The sunset point of cyprus
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Yeroskipou Municipal Beach
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Sea Adventure & Activities
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Old Town of Paphos
Landmarks nearby to Byzantine Church of Agia Paraskevi
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Upper Geroskipou Fountain
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Historical Caves
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Makarios III Monument
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Archaeological Museum of the Paphos District
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Paphos Medieval Tower
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New Hellenic archeological dig
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EOKA students memorial
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Paphos Town Hall
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Eastern Necropolis
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Old Catacombs
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Old Catacombs (south)
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Pontic Genocide Memorial Park
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Cyprus
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arceológiai park
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Stare miasto