Overview

The Chapel of Saint Stephanos in Pachna is a rare and unique church that is rich in history and architectural significance. This small but ancient church, dedicated to St. Stephen the Martyr and Archdeacon, was built in the 13th century using stones from the region that have an asymmetric shape. The construction of this holy church was overseen by Mr. John Mentzis. The Chapel of Saint Stephanos is one of the oldest churches in Cyprus dedicated to Saint Stephen. Although the saint is celebrated on December 27th, the church commemorates his life on August 2nd in this sacred temple. The church is located about two kilometers south of the village of Pachna in Limassol and was built on the foundations of an early Christian basilica. It was also the constitution of a small Catholic monastery that was destroyed during the Ottoman Occupation by the Ottomans and consequently deserted . While the church is almost bare and decorated only with a few fairly recent Christian icons due to the destruction of the older icons and frescoes by fire, it remains a testament to its historical and archaeological significance. The Department of Antiquities has taken a particular interest in maintaining the Chapel of Saint Stephanos, which can still be visited today. The history of St. Stephen, recounted by Saint Luke, tells us about the conflict with the Jewish congregation, his grabbing and transport at the congress for trial, his apology, and his torment. Visiting the Chapel of Saint Stephanos provides an opportunity to reflect on the life and legacy of this important saint in a unique and historically significant setting.