Profitis Ilias Church, Protaras, Cyprus

The Protaras Church of the Prophet Elijah (Greek: Profitis Ilias) is a Greek Orthodox church situated on the summit of a rocky hill near the Protaras resort in Cyprus. From its prominent position on the edge of Protaras, it overlooks the town and the coast from Cape Greko to Kapparis, and on clear days the view reaches as far as Famagusta, making it a popular spot for panoramic views and photography.

The church can be reached on foot from the center of Protaras in about 10–20 minutes, following the path that leads toward Pernera; from Pernera, the walk takes about 20–30 minutes. The hill is surrounded by a small park, and visitors climb a narrow staircase of around 150 steps (usually quoted as 153) to reach the church. At the top, a circular viewing terrace surrounds the building, with wide views of Protaras, the coastline and the countryside inland.

The church is a modest stone building in the Byzantine style, built in 1984 on the site of an earlier chapel. Its small size contrasts with the dramatic height of its setting. The hill is especially popular in the evening, when visitors come to watch the sunset over the countryside and the lights of Protaras coming on below. At night the church is floodlit and can be seen from many parts of the resort.

The Church of the Prophet Elijah is open to the public, and entrance is free. Adjacent to the building is a small church shop catering to visitors. Its combination of religious significance, scenic views, and accessible location makes it a notable landmark within the Protaras area.