Cliff‑Top to Cave: Ayia Napa & Paralimni Church Tour – A Photographic Pilgrimag

Posted on 1/5/2025, by The Drivers Rentals Travel Blog

Why this itinerary? In under 45 km you can tick off five dramatically located chapels—from wave‑washed sea caves to a hilltop lookout—while soaking up centuries of Orthodox tradition.

1. Ayioi Anargyroi Chapel – Sea‑Carved Sanctity

Story & Setting

Perched above a limestone arch on the rugged Cape Greco shoreline, this brilliant‑white chapel honors Saints Cosmas and Damian—the “Holy Unmercenaries” famed for healing without payment. A narrow staircase descends to the waterline cave where legend says they once prayed.

Don’t Miss

• Iconostasis dipped in cobalt blue mirroring the Mediterranean below.

• Fishermen’s candle stubs tucked in rock crevices inside the sea cave.

Photo Tip

Arrive before 09:30 for buttery side‑light on the white façade and aquamarine water.

2. Saint Epiphanios Chapel – Vista Point of Faith

Why Go

Built over the ruins of a 5th‑century basilica, this modern stone chapel crowns a bluff with panoramic views of Ayia Napa harbor. Saint Epiphanios, the 4th‑century Bishop of Salamis, is revered for defending Orthodoxy during turbulent Roman rule.

Quick Facts

	Details
Altitude	115 m above sea level
Best light	Late morning for sweeping seascape shots
Nearby ruins	Mosaic floor fragments & ancient tombs

3. Agioi Saranta Cave Church – Hidden Hollow of Faith

Setting

Tucked into a volcanic tuff outcrop north‑west of Protaras, this diminutive cave sanctuary lacks electricity, crowds, and outright signage—only a blue‑painted door gives it away. Its name (“Forty Saints”) references the Roman soldiers martyred in Armenia (AD 320).

Highlights

• Natural dome ceiling hole lets a spear of midday light hit the icon stand.

• Fresco remnants—faded yet hauntingly beautiful—on the left cavity wall.

Insider directions: Set your GPS to “Agioi Saranta Church Trailhead” then follow the last 400 m dirt track on foot or SUV.

4. Profitis Ilias – Hilltop Guardian of Protaras

First Glance

A steep 156‑step stone staircase leads to this tiny Byzantine‑style chapel perched 100 m above sea level. Inside you’ll find candlelit icons of the Prophet Elijah; outside, an unobstructed 360° panorama stretching from Famagusta Bay to Cape Greco.

Best Moments

• Tie a ribbon on the “Wish Tree” at the stair’s midpoint—local custom says wishes made here soar heavenward with the hilltop winds.

• Blue‑hour glow—arrive 20 min after sunset for city lights below and alpenglow above.

5. Saint George Church, Paralimni – Twin Basilicas in the Square

Architectural Double Act

New and old St. George stand side by side: a striking 1960s domed basilica and its smaller 19th‑century predecessor. Both feature intricate iconography, while the square outside buzzes with cafés perfect for post‑tour frappé.

What to Look For

• Wood‑carved iconostasis in the old church—crafted without a single nail.

• Blue‑glass windows casting sapphire hues across marble floors at noon.

Suggested Half‑Day Itinerary (Starting & Ending in Ayia Napa)

Time	Stop & Activity
08:30	Pick up your rental car at thedrivers.rentals Ayia Napa office
08:45–09:45	Ayioi Anargyroi chapel & sea cave exploration
10:00–10:45	Saint Epiphanios chapel & ruins walkabout
11:15–12:15	Agioi Saranta cave church (30‑min drive + 10‑min walk)
12:30–13:30	Saint George, Paralimni – tour both basilicas, grab lunch on square
14:00–15:00	Profitis Ilias hill climb & panorama
15:30	Return vehicle or continue to beaches of Protaras

Driving Distance: ~43 km loopFuel Cost Estimate: ~€7 in a compact petrol hatchback.

Practical & Respectful Travel Tips

• Modest dress: Cover shoulders & knees; bring a scarf for cave dust.

• Hours: Chapels open 07:00–19:00; Profitis Ilias open 24/7.

• Offer box etiquette: €1 candle donation sustains upkeep.

• Silence signs: Turn shutter sounds off during liturgy hours (usually 07:30–08:30).

• Parking: Free lots at each site; Agioi Saranta has limited roadside space—arrive early.

When to Go

Season	Pros	Cons
March–May	Carpets of spring flowers around cape terrains	Unpredictable showers
June–Sept	Guaranteed sunshine & turquoise seas	Midday heat—schedule cave visit for noon coolness
Oct–Nov	Warm seas, fewer tourists	Shorter daylight for photography
Dec–Feb	Crisp air, atmospheric clouds for dramatic shots	Some chapels may close earlier (17:00)

Final Blessings

Whether you’re a pilgrim at heart or a photographer chasing Cyprus’ most photogenic sanctuaries, this Ayia Napa–Paralimni church loop delivers spiritual serenity and sweeping vistas in equal measure. Ready to press the shutter and light a candle? Book your wheels at thedrivers.rentals and let the pilgrimage begin.