Agioi Saranta Church in Protaras: a shrine in the rock and beautiful places nearby

Agioi Saranta (Ayi Saranta) is one of the most unusual churches in the Republic of Cyprus. This small church is hidden inside a natural cave among the rocks not far from Protaras. Despite its proximity to popular resorts, the place remains relatively little known and attracts those looking for unconventional sights on the island.

• What the Agioi Saranta Church is
• Where the church is located
• What to know before visiting
• What to see nearby
• One-day route
• FAQ

What the Agioi Saranta Church is

The Agioi Saranta Church, or the «Forty Saints,» is dedicated to the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste — Roman soldiers who, according to Christian tradition, died for their faith in 320.

The exact date when the chapel itself appeared in Protaras is unknown. It is believed that the church has existed here for many years: the natural cave was adapted into a small Orthodox church, leaving the stone walls almost unchanged. Inside there are icons, a small altar, and natural openings in the rock through which light enters. The name is also connected with the Greek word saranta — «forty»: according to one version, it refers to the forty martyrs, and according to another — to the stalactites or stone formations inside the cave.

It is precisely the combination of a natural cave and a religious site that makes Agioi Saranta one of the most atmospheric churches in Cyprus.

Where the church is located

The church is located on a hill west of Protaras, not far from the Cape Greco National Forest Park.

The final stretch of the route follows a dirt road and a short trail. From the parking area to the church, it usually takes no more than a few minutes on foot.

The best time to visit is in the morning or before sunset, when the rocks take on a golden hue and the temperature is more comfortable for walking.

Location

What to know before visiting

It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes for the visit, as part of the route runs over a rocky surface.

What to see nearby

Cyclops Cave

Cyclops Cave is located on the coast between Protaras and Cape Greco National Park. Despite its mythological name, it is not an archaeological monument, but a natural limestone cave formed as a result of centuries of sea and wind erosion of the coastal rocks. Today, Cyclops Cave is considered one of the most interesting natural spots on the eastern coast of the Republic of Cyprus. People come here for beautiful views, walks among the rocks, and unusual photographs.

The name is connected with ancient Greek mythology. According to legends, cyclopes were one-eyed giants who lived in caves and hard-to-reach places. Although there is no historical evidence of any connection between the cave and ancient myths, its size and unusual shape inspired locals and tourists to give it this name. Cyclops Cave is most often mentioned as part of the mythological heritage of the Cape Greco region, where many natural sites received names associated with heroes and creatures from ancient Greek legends.

The cave is located in a rock formation above the sea and consists of several natural chambers and passages. Inside you can see limestone formations, hollows in the rock, and natural niches. The main entrance is located several meters above sea level. From here there is a beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sea and the coast of Protaras. Unlike the sea caves of Cape Greco, which are accessible mainly from the water or from viewing platforms, Cyclops Cave can be freely entered and explored independently.

Location

Profitis Elias Church

Profitis Elias Church (Prophet Elijah) is one of the most recognizable sights in Protaras. This small stone church stands on top of a hill about 100 meters above sea level and is visible from almost anywhere in the resort.

Despite its ancient architectural style, the church does not belong to the Byzantine period. The current building was constructed in the 20th century on the site of an earlier religious structure. The exact date of the original church is unknown, but the cult of the Prophet Elijah in Cyprus has a centuries-long history.

In Orthodox tradition, the Prophet Elijah is considered one of the most revered Old Testament saints. According to biblical tradition, he was taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire and is regarded as the patron saint of rain, thunder, and fertility. In Cyprus, many churches dedicated to the Prophet Elijah were built on elevations and hilltops. This tradition is linked to biblical stories of his solitude in the mountains and prayers at height. That is why Profitis Elias Church rises above Protaras and serves as a kind of landmark for locals and tourists.

The church is built of local stone in the traditional Cypriot style. Despite its small size, inside there is a full Orthodox iconostasis and a collection of icons. A staircase of about 150 steps leads to the church. The climb takes only a few minutes, and the reward is some of the best panoramic views of the eastern coast of the Republic of Cyprus.

Location

Cape Greco National Forest Park

Cape Greco National Forest Park is one of the most famous natural attractions in the Republic of Cyprus. The park is located between Protaras and Ayia Napa and covers an area of about 385 hectares.

The main feature of Cape Greco is the combination of picturesque coastal cliffs, sea caves, viewpoints, and hiking routes with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Several nature trails with a total length of more than 15 kilometers run through the park, and they are popular among hiking and cycling enthusiasts.

Many of the region's landmark places are located here: the Sea Caves, the Agioi Anargyroi chapel, the Blue Lagoon, and the easternmost point of the southern part of the island — Cape Greco.

Thanks to its protected status, the park has preserved its characteristic Mediterranean vegetation and is considered one of the best places in Cyprus for watching sunsets and seascapes.

Location

Cape Greco Sea Caves

Coastal cliffs and grottoes formed by sea erosion. This is one of the most popular places for photography on the island.

Location

Agioi Anargyroi Chapel

The name Agioi Anargyroi translates as «Holy Unmercenaries.» The chapel is dedicated to Saints Cosmas and Damian — physician brothers who, according to Christian tradition, healed people without taking payment for it. That is why they are called unmercenary saints.

According to sources, the modern chapel dates to the mid-20th century, with the 1950s period most often mentioned. At the same time, the exact construction date and the architect's name are not given in open sources.

Below the chapel there is a sea cave. A local tradition is associated with it: it is believed that holy ascetics could have lived or secluded themselves here. Some descriptions also mention a spring or a place with «holy water» in the cave. But this is a local legend, not a confirmed historical fact.

Location

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is known for its crystal-clear water and is considered one of the best places for swimming and snorkeling in the Ayia Napa and Protaras area.

Location

Ready-made one-day route

If you want to see the maximum number of interesting places in one trip, you can combine several sights into one route.

This route takes from half a day to a full day, depending on the number of stops and the time spent swimming.

FAQ

How long does a visit to Agioi Saranta take?

Usually, 20–40 minutes is enough to see the church itself.

Can you drive right up to the church?

Most of the way can be covered by car, but the last few meters must be walked.

Is the place suitable for a summer visit?

Yes, but it is recommended to come in the morning or evening to avoid the intense heat.

Is it worth visiting Agioi Saranta on its own?

It is better to combine the trip with a visit to Cape Greco, the sea caves, and Blue Lagoon. All these sights are relatively close to each other.

Is the route suitable for independent travelers?

Yes, all the listed locations are easy to visit independently by car.