Panagia Angeloktisti: The Church Built by Angels
In the village of Kiti near Larnaca stands one of the oldest and most fascinating churches in Cyprus — Panagia Angeloktisti, which translates as «Our Lady Built by Angels.» According to local legend, angels completed the construction of the church overnight after builders were unable to finish the work themselves. Whether legend or history, the church has remained an important place of worship for more than a thousand years.
The greatest treasure of the church is its rare sixth-century mosaic depicting the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child. Considered one of the finest examples of early Byzantine art in the Mediterranean, the mosaic survived periods of iconoclasm and numerous historical upheavals. Visitors are often amazed by the level of detail and craftsmanship preserved through the centuries.
Today, Panagia Angeloktisti continues to welcome both worshippers and travelers interested in Cyprus’s rich religious heritage. Its combination of history, architecture, and spiritual significance makes it one of the island’s most remarkable Orthodox landmarks.
