Multi-Cultural Christian Cyprus Tolerant to other Religions and Doctrines Route A Religious Route

EXCURSIONS / Routes / Larnaca / Religious Routes / Multi-Cultural Christian Cyprus Tolerant to other Religions and Doctrines Route A Religious Route
A basic characteristic of Cyprus, which makes it special, is the peaceful coexistence of Christianity and Mohammedanism, while at the same time, the Orthodox share the same space with the Armenians and the Catholics. This peaceful coexistence of many years was the reason for the construction as well as preservation of various monuments.

The Orthodox religion and the course of the autocephalous Cypriot church are all depicted on the frescoes of the church of Apostle Varnavas in Engomi as well as on the church of Agios Ioannis in Lefkosia. The relation between the Orthodox and the Muslims starts in the 7th century with the commencement of the Arabic raids on the island. The Um Haram Mosque signals the relation between the area and Prophet Muhammad.

Later, in the 11th century with the commencement of the Crusades and, more specifically, after the conquest of the island by Richard the Lionheart and its surrender to the Franks, Cyprus gets to know Catholicism which dominates the island after its occupation by the Venetians. The current form of the island with regard to the way in which it accepts and supports the various religions was determined under Turkish rule since the Turks have converted many churches into mosques such as the Gothic Church of Agia Sofia in Lefkosia (Nicosia).

Monuments: Church of Agios Lazaros, Larnaka (Larnaca) – Um Haram Mosque, Dromolaxia, Church of Panagia Aggeloktisti in Kiti, Church of Panagia in Kisivili, Church/Mosque of Agia AIkaterini – Gothic Church of Panagia Stazousa and Royal Chapel in Pyrga and Monastery of Stavrovouni.

Start Point: Church of Agios Lazaros, Larnaka
End Point: Monastery of Stavrovouni

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