St. John Theologian's Cathedral in Nicosia

St. John Theologian's Cathedral is an Eastern Orthodox church building in Nicosia characterized by its vaulted ceiling and lack of dome. The interior walls display detailed Biblical frescoes throughout, with a gold-leaf covered iconostasis serving as the focal point of the sacred space.

Archbishop Nikiforos began construction in 1662 on the site of a former Benedictine Abbey from the Lusignan period. The cathedral replaced the medieval religious structure that had previously occupied the location.

The cathedral serves as the spiritual center of Orthodox Christianity in Cyprus, hosting major religious ceremonies that hold deep meaning for the community. Visitors can sense how this place remains central to local faith and tradition.

Visitors should dress modestly when entering, with long pants and covered shoulders required to show respect for this sacred space. Appropriate attire is important and expected from all who visit the cathedral.

The cathedral houses a rare collection of interior wall paintings that survive complete and intact, found nowhere else among Nicosia's other churches. These frescoes were created between 1736 and 1756, offering a visual record of that era.

Location: Nicosia

Inception: 1662

GPS coordinates: 35.17333,33.36783

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:05