Panagia Angeloktisti

Cyprus


Literally meaning ‘built by angels’, the church is home to the extraordinary 6th-century Mosaic of the Virgin Mary. The mosaic was discovered in 1952 amid the remains of the original 5th-century apse, which has been incorporated into the current building. Brilliantly preserved, the mosaic portrays Mary standing on a jewelled pedestal with baby Jesus in her arms, bordered by the archangels Gabriel and Michael. The church is a working place of worship, with regular services.

It is located in Kiti, 9km southwest of Larnaka.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Cyprus attractions

1. Cape Kiti & Perivolia

2.66 MILES

Southwest of Larnaka, these two adjoining narrow beaches have large, white stones and shallow waters. The Perivolia side of the cape is often exposed to…

2. Hala Sultan Tekkesi

3.42 MILES

Surrounded by date palms, cypress and olive trees, this late-18th-century mosque and tekke (shrine) sits wistfully on the edge of Larnaka’s salt lake…

3. Larnaka Salt Lake

4.54 MILES

During winter this protected reserve fills with rainwater, creating an important migratory habitat for flamingos, wild ducks and water fowl. As summer…

4. Kamares Aqueduct

4.57 MILES

Sanctioned in 1746 by Ottoman governor Bekir Pasha, and built in classical Roman style – some historians believe it is actually a Roman creation that was…

5. Makenzy Beach

4.88 MILES

Larnaka's most popular beach has all the facilities needed for a day in the sun, including plenty of cafes and restaurants rimming the promenade. It’s…

6. Turkish Quarter

5.66 MILES

Strolling the streets of the old Turkish neighbourhood of Skala is a glimpse into the Cyprus of old. This quaint district is a watercolour-worthy scene of…

7. Natural History Museum

5.68 MILES

This museum presents an excellent introduction to the natural history of the island, with exhibits dedicated to fauna, flora, geology, insects and marine…

8. Byzantine Museum

5.7 MILES

Located in the courtyard of the Agios Lazaros complex, this museum originally contained many priceless relics and artefacts. Unfortunately, much of the…