Panagia Angeloktisti Church, Kiti : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Welcome to our blog about the Panagia Angeloktisti Church! Located in the small Cypriot village of Kiti, the Panagia Angeloktisti Church is a historic Byzantine-era masterpiece. Built in the 11th century, this church is an incredible sight to behold, drawing history buffs and tourists alike. In this blog, we will explore the history of this beautiful church, discuss the archaeological finds from this site, and provide a travel guide so that you too can explore the Panagia Angeloktisti Church. We’ll also look at interesting facts related to this church and its surrounding areas, so that you can get an understanding of every aspect of this awe-inspiring destination. So buckle up and join us as we dive right into the Panagia Angeloktisti Church!

Interesting Facts About Panagia Angeloktisti Church, Kiti

1. Panagia Angeloktisti Church is named after the Archangel Gabriel, who is said to have placed an ikon of the Virgin at the site of the church in the 6th century.

2. The church is said to contain the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, “Angeloktisti” meaning “built by an angel” in Greek.

3. The current building dates back to the mid-18th century and is the only preserved Byzantine-era church in the area.

4. The church was almost completely destroyed by a fire in 1974, but was faithfully and expertly restored.

5. The icon of the Virgin Mary housed at Panagia Angeloktisti was designated as a religious relic by the Ecumenical Patriarch in 1983.

6. The grounds of the church host an extensive collection of old tombstones, monasteries, and fountains.

7. The exterior walls of the church are decorated with beautiful frescoes depicting religious themes and important events in the Cypriot history.

8. The church is a popular setting for traditional Cypriot weddings, with couples of all religions allowed to conduct civil ceremonies in the grounds.

• Othello’s Tower, Famagusta : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

History & Information About Panagia Angeloktisti Church, Kiti

, Cyprus

Panagia Angeloktisti Church is a Byzantine-era church located in Kiti, Cyprus. The church, which dates back to the 11th century, is believed to have been built by Byzantine Empress Eirene Angelina, the daughter of the Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos.

The church is a three-aisled, domed structure built in the traditional Greek cross style and constructed out of masonry. The church features two main entrances, one through a portico facing south with columns and marble capitals, and another at the eastern end of the church. The interior of the church is lavishly decorated with mosaics, some of which depict biblical scenes such as the Raising of Lazarus and the Virgin Mary enthroned with the Child Jesus.

Of particular note is the mosaic of the Archangel Gabriel announcing the birth of Jesus, believed to be one of the finest mosaics in the world. The walls of the church are also decorated with frescoes, some of which depict the twelve apostles and the mother of God.

Panagia Angeloktisti Church is highly revered by the Orthodox Church in Cyprus, and it serves as a popular destination for religious pilgrims and tourists from around the world. The church is also home to a number of religious artifacts, including a 400-year-old icon of the Risen Christ and the Icon of the Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus from the 12th century.

It is one of the few churches still standing in what was the short-lived Byzantine Empire and its architectural and artistic works are thought to be some of the finest surviving examples of Byzantine art and architecture.

• Ancient Kourion, Limassol : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Ayios Ioannis Lambadistis Monastery, Kalopanayiotis : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, Paphos : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Travel Guide For Visiting Panagia Angeloktisti Church, Kiti

, Cyprus

Introduction

Panagia Angeloktisti Church, located in Kiti village in the Larnaca district of Cyprus, is a standout example of the island nation’s rich religious history. Built in the 12th century by Emperor Manuel Comnenos as a signal of his gratitude to the Virgin Mary, the church is filled with vibrant frescoes that depict both local and biblical scenes. With its pleasing architecture and rich religious history, this church is a must-see for any visitor to the region.

Location

Panagia Angeloktisti Church is located at 24 Apostolou Pavlou St in Kiti, a town located in the Larnaca District of Cyprus. The church is situated close to other important landmarks in the region, including the Bedesten Mosque, an old Ottoman-era building, and the Ayios Danalis, a classic example of a traditional village house.

History

Panagia Angeloktisti Church was constructed in the 12th century by Emperor Manuel Comnenos as a sign of gratitude for the Virgin Mary’s intervention in the victorious Battle of Myriokephalon against the Seljuk Sultanate. It is believed that the Church may be the site where Emperor Manuel I Comnenos was crowned in 1182 by the Archbishop of Constantinople. In the 18th century, the Church underwent extensive renovation, with new frescoes being added which depict both local and biblical scenes.

Highlights

Panagia Angeloktisti Church is a stunning example of the religious history of Cyprus. The exterior of the church combines elements of both Romanesque and Byzantine architecture, making for a striking and memorable sight. Inside, the church is outfitted with detailed 12th century frescoes depicting a variety of biblical and local figures, providing visitors with an opportunity to uncover some of the more hidden symbols in the art. Additionally, the church is home to a number of religious artifacts, including a number of intricately-crafted icons.

Conclusion

Panagia Angeloktisti Church is a great destination for any visitor wanting to witness the beauty and history of Cyprus. Not only is the church a fine example of the region’s religious history, but also of its culture and art. With its stunning architecture and captivating artwork, this 12th century church is sure to delight any visitor who wishes to take in all that Cyprus has to offer.

• Cyprus Wine Museum, Erimi : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Ancient Salamis, Famagusta : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Frequently Asked Questions About Panagia Angeloktisti Church, Kiti

Q. What is Panagia Angeloktisti Church?
A. Panagia Angeloktisti Church is a Byzantine church in Kiti, Cyprus built around AD 1100.

Q. What is the history of Panagaia Angeloktisti Church?
A. Panagia Angeloktisti Church was constructed in the 11th century AD as the nucleus of the Kiti monastery. Archaeological research has established that the building was previously at another location before being moved to its current location. The interior of the church is richly decorated with wall frescoes that date from the 12th and 15th centuries.

Q. What is the importance of Panagia Angeloktisti Church?
A. Panagia Angeloktisti Church is one of four Cypriot churches listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as it is a unique example of Byzantine ecclesiastical art, especially in terms of the richness and variety of the wall paintings that decorate the interior.

Q. What services does Panagia Angeloktisti Church offer?
A. Panagia Angeloktisti Church offers regular services and acts as a pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians. The church is also involved in the local community, offering services and organizing events for the local population.

• Cyprus Wine Museum, Erimi : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Kyrenia Castle, Kyrenia : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide