Ayia Napa Cathedral, Limassol

Orthodox Church of Limassol Ayia Napa (Ayia Napa Cathedral) is the main cathedral of Limassol, Cyprus, located in the heart of the Old Town, near Molos embankment and the Old Port. Its two white towers are clearly visible from the waterfront.

Location and Access

• Address: Intersection of Agiou Andreou and Genethliou streets.
• Nearest public transport: Bus No. 30, stop at Old Port. From the stop, walk about 100 meters to reach the church.
• The main post office of Limassol is next to the cathedral.

History and Architecture

• Built in 1903–1906 on the site of an older church of the same name.
• Constructed in a mixed Byzantine-Greek style using white stone, following Orthodox architectural canons.
• The name “Ayia Napa” likely comes from a sacred icon of the Virgin Mary found in a forest (“Napa” = forest, “Ayia” = sacred). It is unrelated to the Cypriot resort of Ayia Napa.

Exterior:

• White stone façade with decorative elements and stained glass windows.
• Two towers and narrow loophole-style windows give it the appearance of a medieval oriental castle.

Interior:

• Small in size, with halls aligned west to east.
• Layout: Narthex → Prayer Hall → Iconostasis → Altar.
• Richly decorated with frescoes, paintings, and an elegant dome.
• Main treasure: a revered old icon of the Virgin Mary.

Surroundings

• A small stone-paved square near the main entrance features:
  • Stone rotunda
  • Eagle sculpture
  • Floor door
  • Obelisk

Visiting Information

A visit can easily be combined with a walk through the streets of Old Limassol.

Entrance: Free

Recommended visit time: 20–30 minutes

The cathedral may not always be open, so plan accordingly.