Antiphonitis, Byzantine church in Kyrenia District, Cyprus.
Antiphonitis is a Byzantine church in Kyrenia District featuring a large central dome supported by eight pillars. The narthex and arcade were added during the fifteenth century, expanding the original structure.
The monastery complex originated in the seventh century, while the current church building dates to 1101. A major earthquake in 1220 led to substantial rebuilding that significantly altered the complex.
The interior walls show frescoes from different periods with Byzantine and Italian style elements, revealing how different cultures met at this place. These artworks tell the story of long use by various communities over many centuries.
Access is via mountain roads near Kalograia village, which require careful navigation and take time to drive. Visitors should be aware the location is remote and plan accordingly for travel time.
Thirty frescoes were removed by art traffickers between 1976 and 1979, but in 1997 they were successfully recovered. These restored frescoes can now be seen at the Byzantine Museum of Nicosia.
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