Overview

The Church of Panagia Photolampousa, also known as Peraxorkatissa, is located approximately 2 kilometers northwest of the village of Kivides. It belongs to the architectural style of a single-aisle, domed church. The walls are constructed using raw local stone, showcasing the natural beauty of the material. The dome is also built with locally sourced stone, adorned with a layer of smoothing plaster made from lime and cement. The church features two entrances, one in the middle of the western wall and another in the middle of the southern wall. Apart from these two doors, the only other opening is a small, elongated window in the semi-cylindrical wall of the sanctuary's apse. The church appears to have served as the monastic church of a monastery that existed in the area. Historical records indicate that in the 15th century, the abbot of the Stylou Monastery(Now known as Holy Monastery of St. Nicholas of the Cats), Neophytos, donated a Gospel to this monastery. The Church of Panagia Photolampousa showcases the architectural beauty and craftsmanship of the region, with its harmonious blend of local stone, arched elements, and carefully designed entrances and windows. Visiting this church provides a glimpse into the rich history of the area and the monastic traditions that once thrived there. The serene atmosphere and the captivating details of the church's construction, from the use of raw stone to the dome's intricate design, create a sense of reverence and awe. The Church of Panagia Photolampousa stands as a testament to the cultural and religious heritage of Kivides, inviting visitors to appreciate its architectural splendor and the spiritual significance it holds within the community.