Hannes Grobe · CC BY 3.0 Why visit
Saint Lazarus is central to understanding the religious identity and historic core of Larnaca. Its substantial stone fabric survives from a much earlier period than most surrounding buildings, while later additions show the continuity of worship. The square around it makes the church an easy anchor for walking through the old centre. The stop works especially well when placed beside nearby sites from the same region, because the contrast in landscape, architecture or historical period makes the wider character of Cyprus easier to understand.
What you will see
- Stone Byzantine architecture.
- Carved iconostasis.
- Crypt tradition.
- Historic square.
History
The church was built in the late 9th or early 10th century during Byzantine rule. It has been altered over time, including changes to its bell tower and interior furnishings, while remaining a major religious landmark of Larnaca.
Visitor tips
- 1
Allow time for the surrounding landscape or historic streets where these form part of the site context.
- 2
Check current official information before relying on a particular entrance, service, crossing arrangement or interior visit.
About Larnaca & Lefkara
Larnaca and its hinterland combine wetland landscapes, historic churches, archaeology, mountain-edge villages and Ottoman-era engineering.
Open the Cyprus guide
