Background

Holy Church of Saint Lazarus: A Byzantine Masterpiece in Larnaca

Discover the spiritual heart of Larnaca at this stunning Byzantine church, built over the tomb of the revered Saint Lazarus.

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The Holy Church of Saint Lazarus is a late 9th-century church in Larnaca, Cyprus, built over the tomb of Saint Lazarus of Bethany. According to Eastern Orthodox tradition, Lazarus fled to Cyprus after being resurrected by Jesus and became the first Bishop of Kition (Larnaca). The church is a significant example of Byzantine architecture and a major pilgrimage site.

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

  • Dress modestly when visiting, as it is an active place of worship.
  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photographs.
  • Explore the museum located next to the church for deeper insights into its history and artifacts.
  • Take time to explore the crypt to see St. Lazarus' supposed tomb.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Holy Church of Saint Lazarus is centrally located in Larnaca. From Finikoudes promenade, walk inland, away from the sea, for approximately 10 minutes. The church will be on your right. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Holy Church of Saint Lazarus via public transport, take a local bus to a stop near Ayiou Lazarou Street. From the bus stop, walk a few meters down Ayiou Lazarou Street, and you will find the Holy Church of Saint Lazarus ahead on your right. A single bus ticket within Larnaca costs €1.50 during the day and €2.50 at night.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Larnaca. Simply ask your driver to take you to 'Agios Lazaros Church' in the city center. Taxi fares in Larnaca have a base fare of €3, with an additional €1 per kilometer. A short trip within the city center should cost around €7-€10.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Agios Lazaros Square in Larnaca. Limited street parking is available near the church. Parking fees typically range from €1 to €2 per hour. Several parking lots are located within a short walking distance of the church, including Saint Nicholas Parking.

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Discover more about Holy Church of Saint Lazarus

The Holy Church of Saint Lazarus, or Agios Lazaros, stands as 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 architectural style of the church reflects its long and varied history. It is an elongated building, 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 stonework primarily consists of square limestone blocks. 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 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.

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