Cyprus Folk Art Museum
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St. John's Cathedral: A Glimpse into Cypriot History
Discover the historical and spiritual heart of Nicosia at St. John's Cathedral, a gem of Cypriot art and religious tradition.
St. John's Cathedral, or Agios Ioannis, is a small but historically significant cathedral in Nicosia, Cyprus, dating back to the 17th century. Built on the site of a former Benedictine abbey, its unassuming exterior belies a lavish interior adorned with vibrant 18th-century frescoes, gilded woodwork, and crystal chandeliers. It serves as the main church of the Church of Cyprus and the location for the enthronement of Archbishops.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to St. John's Cathedral
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
9 am-3 pm
Tuesday
9 am-3 pm
Wednesday
9 am-3 pm
Thursday
9 am-3 pm
Friday
9 am-3 pm
Saturday
9 am-12 pm
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Getting There
Walking
St. John's Cathedral is located in the heart of old Nicosia, adjacent to the Archbishop's Palace. If you are already within the old city walls, the cathedral is easily accessible on foot. Head towards Archbishop Kyprianos Square; the cathedral is located there. Look for the building with a modest stone facade next to the more imposing Archbishop's Palace. Be aware of limited hours.
Public Transport
Nicosia has a public bus system that serves the city. Check local bus routes and schedules to find the nearest bus stop to the Archbishopric. From the bus stop, follow the walking directions to the cathedral. A single bus fare in Nicosia is approximately €1.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Nicosia. You can hail a taxi from the street or book one through a local taxi service. Ask the driver to take you to St. John's Cathedral in Archbishop Kyprianos Square. Taxi fares in Nicosia start with an initial charge of €3.80, plus €0.95 per kilometer. A short taxi ride within the city center should cost around €10-€15.
Driving
If driving, navigate to Archbishop Kyprianos Square in central Nicosia. Be aware that parking in the old city can be limited. Look for public parking lots near Ledra Street, which is about a 10-minute walk to the cathedral. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around €2-€3 per hour. Podokataro Parking is another option, located approximately 350 meters from the Cathedral. Street parking may also be available, but it can be difficult to find.
Local tips
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Check the opening hours before visiting, as the cathedral may close for services.
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Photography is generally not allowed inside the cathedral.
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Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is an active place of worship.
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Combine your visit with a tour of the adjacent Archbishop's Palace to learn more about the ecclesiastical history of Cyprus.
Discover more about St. John's Cathedral
Located within the old city walls of Nicosia, St. John's Cathedral is a captivating blend of Franco-Byzantine architecture and Orthodox heritage. The cathedral's origins trace back to the 14th century with a Benedictine Abbey dedicated to St. John the Evangelist. In 1662, Archbishop Nikiforos reconstructed the church, utilizing remnants of the original structure. Despite its modest exterior, mandated by Ottoman rule at the time, the interior is a stunning display of Cypriot craftsmanship. The walls are covered in frescoes painted between 1736 and 1756, depicting biblical scenes and the discovery of the tomb of Apostle Barnabas. The gilded wood carvings and crystal chandeliers add to the opulent atmosphere. Four large icons, created by Cretan master John Kornaros between 1795 and 1797, further enrich the cathedral's artistic tapestry.Today, St. John's Cathedral remains an active place of worship and a significant cultural landmark. It serves as the official state church and hosts the enthronement ceremonies for new Archbishops of Cyprus. Visitors can explore the cathedral's serene interior, admire its artistic treasures, and delve into the history of the Church of Cyprus.
A brief summary to St. John's Cathedral
Use St. John's Cathedral as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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