Agioi Saranta Cave Church, Protaras, Cyprus

Cave Church of Agioi Saranta – is a small, historic church located in a mountain cave near Protaras, Cyprus, in the Fanos area, about 4 km from the resort. It is situated in a secluded and rugged location between Protaras and Ayia Napa.

How to Get There

• From the coast: Walking takes about 40 minutes.
• By car: You can drive part of the way on asphalt, but the last 2 km are a rough dirt road with potholes, and the final 20–30 meters require climbing uphill.
• Tips: Taxi drivers are usually reluctant to go here due to the road conditions. It’s best to visit during daylight and bring water. Signage is minimal, so checking Google Maps beforehand is recommended.

About the Church

• The church is built inside a natural cave on a small rocky hill.
• Visitors must climb wooden steps and unlock the door themselves; there is no permanent clergy or monks.
• Inside, the church is dimly lit, with light entering only through a small window in the cave’s dome.

Name and Legend

• Agioi Saranta means “40 Saints” in Greek.
• According to tradition, the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste were Roman soldiers who, in 320 AD under Emperor Licinius, refused to renounce Christianity and were left to die on a frozen lake near Sebaste (today Sivas in Turkey).
• March 9 is their feast day, and local residents often visit the cave church to commemorate them.

Note: This church is more of a quiet, spiritual stop than a tourist attraction. Its charm lies in the natural cave setting and the remote, untouched atmosphere.