Holy Church of Panagia of Asinou — Attraction in Nikitari

The Holy Church of Panagia of Asinou is one of Cyprus’s most celebrated Byzantine monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located near the village of Nikitari in the Troodos Mountains. Built in the early 12th century, this small yet magnificent church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary of Forviotissa and is world-renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved Byzantine frescoes.

The interior of the church is completely covered with vivid wall paintings that span from the 12th to the 17th centuries, illustrating scenes from the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints. These frescoes are among the finest examples of Byzantine and post-Byzantine art in the Eastern Mediterranean, showcasing incredible color, detail, and emotional depth.

Surrounded by pine forests and mountain landscapes, the church exudes an atmosphere of quiet spirituality and timeless beauty. Its simple stone architecture contrasts beautifully with the rich decoration inside, creating a deeply moving experience for every visitor.

Panagia of Asinou is a masterpiece of faith and art, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic soul of medieval Cyprus — a must-see for lovers of history, culture, and...

Perhaps the most beautiful of the painted churches of Cyprus, also due to the presence of a complete decoration of the narthex (including many donor portraits giving a glimpse of secular life of medieval Cyprus). Very easy to reach compared to the churches of the central Troodos, and in my experience the opening hours are relatively well maintained. Only issue is the old photography topic. There is no official sign stating it but most guards will insist that UNESCO forbids photography (which is not the case). Nevertheless, in random choice some people are allowed (as testified by the pictures in this google maps entry), others not, and in general they don't seem to really know themselves what...

Originally it was the ''katholikon'' which is mean a monastery church. Founded in 1099. Built of natural fieldstones. This is the oldest church in Cyprus. The church was donated by the money of Magistros Nikephoros Ischyrios who became a monk and took the name Nikolaos. The church was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985 C.E. Today it is a kind of a small museum. This place should be visited. The days in Cyprus are short in November. Unfortunately, I was late. I didn't enter inside but made a...