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Church of Saint Lazarus
Larnaka
The Church of Saint Lazarus in Larnaca, Cyprus, is a significant late-9th century Byzantine Orthodox church revered for its connection to Lazarus of Bethany, who, according to tradition, fled Judea to Cyprus and became the first Bishop of Kition. Constructed over his reputed second tomb, the church features an elongated basilica design with three aisles supported by massive limestone pillars and a series of domes, some of which were destroyed and later rebuilt in different styles. The interior is notable for its unique Baroque iconostasis, intricately wood-carved and gold-plated in the late 18th century, housing icons by painters such as Michael Proskynetes and Hatzimichael. Throughout its history, the church underwent Roman Catholic influence during Frankish and Venetian rule, Ottoman conversion to a mosque, and eventual restoration to Orthodox use. A fire in 1970 caused extensive interior damage, but the iconostasis has since been partially restored. The church remains a vibrant religious site, especially during Lazarus Saturday, when the icon of Saint Lazarus is paraded through Larnaca's streets, symbolizing deep local devotion and cultural heritage.
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Tip: Visitors should consider attending the Lazarus Saturday procession held eight days before Easter, a highlight of local religious tradition. It is advisable to check the church’s official website for monthly schedules and special services. Tickets are generally not required, but respectful attire and behavior are recommended. Early visits in the morning can offer a quieter experience before crowds arrive. Discounts are typically available for groups and religious pilgrims.
Interesting facts
- •The church is built over the reputed second tomb of Lazarus, who is said to have lived 30 years in Cyprus after being raised from the dead.
- •In 890, a tomb was found with an inscription referencing Lazarus as 'four days dead, friend of Christ'.
- •The church's Baroque iconostasis was crafted between 1773 and 1782 and gold-plated by 1797.
- •During Ottoman rule, the church was converted into a mosque but was later returned to Christian use due to the adjacent Christian cemetery.
- •Human remains discovered under the altar in 1972 were identified as part of Saint Lazarus's relics, suggesting not all were transferred to Constantinople.
History
The Church of Saint Lazarus was constructed in the late 9th to early 10th centuries by order of Byzantine Emperor Leo VI after the discovery of Lazarus's tomb in Larnaca in 890.
The saint's relics were transferred to Constantinople in 898 but were later lost following the Fourth Crusade.
Under Frankish and Venetian rule, the church became Roman Catholic and gained a Gothic-style portico.
The Ottoman conquest in 1571 led to the destruction of its domes and conversion to a mosque, but it was sold back to the Orthodox community in 1589.
The bell tower was rebuilt in 1857 following Ottoman permission.
In 1970, a fire damaged the interior, but restoration efforts uncovered saintly relics beneath the altar in 1972.
Place Guide
Main Basilica and Aisles9th-10th century
An elongated basilica measuring approximately 31.5 by 14.5 meters, divided into three aisles with massive limestone pillars supporting the domes and semi-cylindrical roofs, showcasing Byzantine architectural style.
Baroque Iconostasis1773-1797
A unique, intricately wood-carved and gold-plated iconostasis created between 1773 and 1782 by Chatzisavvas Taliadorou, featuring icons painted by Michael Proskynetes and Hatzimichael, representing a significant artistic and religious centerpiece.
Gothic Portico (Stoa)13th-16th centuries
Added during Frankish and Venetian rule (13th-16th centuries), this stone-covered portico showcases Gothic architectural elements and bears inscriptions in Greek, Latin, and French, reflecting the church's diverse historical influences.
Bell Tower1857
Originally destroyed in the early Ottoman period, the bell tower was rebuilt in 1857 in a Latinate style after the Ottoman authorities allowed bell towers again, symbolizing the church's resilience and continuity.
Contact
Phone: 24 652498
