Παναγία Βουναρκώτισσα

Panagia Vounarkotissa

Useful Information

Location:	North of the Akrotiri meadow, just outside of the village of Kolossi. Actually the church is located in Akrotiri, overseas territory of the United Kingdom. (34.6575997, 32.9294386)
Open:	no restrictions. [2020]
Fee:	free. [2020]
Classification:	Cave Church
Light:	Incandescent Electric Light System
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As far as we know this information was accurate when it was published (see years in brackets), but may have changed since then. Please check rates and details directly with the companies in question if you need more recent info.

History

2000	area around the cave beautified by the city Limassol.

Description

The chapel Παναγία Βουναρκώτισσα (Panagia Vounarkotissa) is located inside a small natural cave. It is actually the only cave church in Limassol and was used as a church for centuries. Especially during difficult times the faithful performed their ceremonies of worship in the safety of the cave. The chapel is dedicated to the Virgin of Vounarkotissa. Vounarkotissa means inside a rock.

The cave is rather small and so the small chapel is filled with icons of saints the faithful donated to the chapel. The walls are covered with icons, and the altar is perched into a small corner of the cave.

According to legend the earth in the cave if mixed with water is an ailment for any possible sickness. Just rub it on the skin over the ailment. It is also claimed that many healing miracles have taken place in the cave.

According to another legend the cave was transformed into a church by a hermit. In the 10th or 11th century the pilgrim arrived at Cyprus, travelled across the island until he finally found the cave. He decided to live in the cave as a hermit and devote himself to the service of the Lord. He built the altar and also expanded the cave to make additional space for living and worship. He also discovered a spring inside the cave, which he used as drinking water. He also discovered the healing properties of the mud and was soon visited by the residents of nearby villages for healing. They also asked him for help and advice.