Visit this 9th-century religious complex, hear the fascinating Bible tale of miracles and see the alleged sacred tomb of Lazarus.
The Church of Saint Lazarus is a famous spiritual home said to be built upon the remains of the Biblical figure of Lazarus of Bethany. The tale suggests Jesus resurrected him before he fled to Cyprus to live out the rest of his life there. See the church built from stone as it stands proudly in St. Lazarus Square as a reminder of the city’s lively past.
Gaze up at the church’s giant bell tower with its pyramid-shaped peak. Several windows are carved into the tall steeple, revealing the bells inside. Admire the arches and intricate stone features silhouetted against a blue sky. Relax in the spacious plaza outside the church and revel in the Cypriot sunshine.
Capture photos of the glorious church at night, illuminated in gold light. It is an ideal backdrop for ceremonial photos, such as weddings. Walk down the steps from the open porch to venture inside the historic religious structure and look at the intriguing relics dotted around the walls.
The church was reconstructed in the 17th century and displays many relics from that time period. Admire the silver icon of the raising of Lazarus, which portrays his resurrection.
Descend beneath the altar to find the eerie basement that allegedly holds the tomb of Lazarus. Alternative versions of the tale suggest his body has since been relocated.
See the annual procession on Lazarus Saturday, eight days before Easter, when the icon of the Biblical figure is carried through the city’s streets.
Enter the church to look around during opening times, which are daily from morning to evening with a small break at noon. There is no early afternoon break on weekends. Admission is free.
Find the Church of Saint Lazarus at the southern part of Larnaca’s historic center, several blocks west of Finikoudes Beach. Take a bus to one of the stops on the Fanairomenis road next to the church. Make sure to see the nearby Castle Square Pier and its adjoining promenade.
