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Church of Panagia Theoskepasti: Paphos's Veiled Sanctuary

Discover the Church of Panagia Theoskepasti in Paphos: a historic Byzantine church with miraculous legends and stunning Mediterranean views.

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Perched atop a rocky hill in Kato Paphos, the Church of Panagia Theoskepasti is a Byzantine church with a rich history dating back to the 10th century. Legend says it was miraculously veiled in fog to protect it from invaders, hence its name, meaning 'Veiled by God'. Rebuilt in 1923, it stands as a testament to the island's enduring faith and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

A brief summary to Church of Panagia Theoskepasti

Local tips

  • Visit during the week of the Akathist Hymn, 15 days before Easter, to experience the island's celebration at Panagia Theoskepasti.
  • Take time to admire the interior's religious artistry, including the stunning frescoes and intricate carvings depicting biblical scenes.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around Kato Paphos to explore nearby archaeological sites and enjoy the coastal scenery.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Paphos Harbour area, walk north along Poseidonos Avenue. Continue for approximately 1.5 km until you reach the intersection with Tombs of the Kings Avenue. Turn left onto Athinas Street, and then right onto Panagias Theoskepastis Street. The church will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    From the Paphos Harbour area, locate the nearest bus stop. Take bus route 615 towards Tombs of the Kings. Get off at the 'Tombs of the Kings' stop. From there, walk east on Tombs of the Kings Avenue, turn left onto Athinas Street, and then right onto Panagias Theoskepastis Street. The church will be on your left. A single bus ticket costs approximately €2 during the day or €3 at night. A 24-hour ticket is available for €6.50.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from the Paphos Harbour area to the Church of Panagia Theoskepasti typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and the specific service. The journey takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Taxis in Paphos have a base fare of €3.42 and a rate of €0.73 per km during the day (06:00 to 20:30).

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Discover more about Church of Panagia Theoskepasti

The Church of Panagia Theoskepasti, a Byzantine gem in Kato Paphos, Cyprus, carries a captivating history woven with legend and faith. Dating back to the 10th century, the original church was dedicated to the Virgin Mary and built on a protruding rock near the sea. Its strategic position made it vulnerable to attacks, but local lore tells of miraculous veiling by dark clouds, rendering it invisible to Saracen invaders. This divine intervention gave the church its name, 'Theoskepasti,' meaning 'Veiled by God'. The present-day church, rebuilt in 1923 on the foundations of its Byzantine predecessor, retains the original architecture. A complete restoration in 2009 ensures its preservation for future generations. Inside, visitors can admire precious portable icons, including a silver-covered icon believed to be one of seventy painted by the Evangelist Luke. The church's interior showcases a blend of Byzantine artistry and Cypriot culture, with stunning frescoes and carvings depicting biblical scenes. Located on a rocky cliff, the church offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the azure Mediterranean Sea. This serene setting enhances the spiritual ambiance, inviting visitors to contemplate and reflect. The Church of Panagia Theoskepasti stands as a symbol of orthodoxy and a testament to the island's unwavering faith, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of Paphos.

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