Afendrika Archaeological Site
One of the places in Northern Cyprus where you can literally touch history.
The Afendrika Archaeological Site, located on the Karpas Peninsula in Cyprus, is home to the remains of three Byzantine churches: Panagia Afendrika, Asomatos, and Agios Georgios. These structures were recently restored with the participation of the UN and can be visited.
History of Afendrika
The area known today as Afendrika was once home to the ancient settlement of Urania, which flourished during the Classical period. The presence of three churches in close proximity suggests that the site thrived between the 6th and 12th centuries AD, corresponding to the Early and Middle Byzantine periods. Strabo referred to Urania as one of the six most important cities of Cyprus.
UNDP Restoration Efforts
In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve these historical structures. The Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage (TCCH), with the support of the European Union and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has implemented projects to protect and restore the churches. The restoration was completed in December 2020.
How to Find Afendrika
Afendrika is located near the village of Dipkarpaz on the Karpas Peninsula, about 7 kilometers east of Agios Philon Beach. Visitors can reach the site only by car, taking the northern coastal road instead of the main road leading through the southern part of the peninsula towards the Monastery of Apostolos Andreas. The exact location can be found on the map below.
Frequently Asked Questions About Afendrika Archaeological Site
What are the opening hours of Afendrika?
There are usually no staff on-site, so visitors can freely enter, except for a few areas that are fenced off. Opening hours may change without notice, but there is no formal control.
Is there an entrance fee to visit the Afendrika archaeological site?
Visiting the site is free of charge.
What should I bring when visiting?
Since the site is outdoors, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection, such as hats and sunscreen. It is also advisable to carry water, especially during the hot summer months.
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Author
Born and raised in Yekaterinburg, visited more than 40 countries, lived in the USA for some time, and in 2022, moved to Northern Cyprus. Education: Ural State University (now Ural Federal University), Faculty of Political Science and Sociology. Professional Experience: Since 2008, worked in the…
