In the central part of Cyprus, in the mountains of the Troodos range, some of the most important monuments of the history of Byzantine painting have survived.
They consist of painted churches which have preserved to this day brilliant examples of various trends of the Byzantine and post-Byzantine monumental art, from the 11th to the 19th century.
Ten of these churches have been so far granted World Cultural Heritage status by UNESCO.Church of the Transfiguration of the Saviour (Agia Sotira), Palaichori.
The church of the Transfiguration of the Saviour is situated in the east part of the Troodos mountain range. It is built on a small hill overlooking the eastern part of the village of Palaichori. In 2000 it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List , which includes nine other painted Byzantine churches of the Troodos range.
It was erected at the beginning of the 16th century and it belongs to the single-aisled, timber-roof typechurches of the Troodos region. The narthex, which was added by the beginning of the 17th century, extends to the west and south sides of the church and is covered by the same timber roof.
The interior of the church is entirely covered with wall-paintings. These date to the beginning of the 16th century, and constitute one of the most complete groups of wall-paintings of the Late Byzantine period in Cyprus.
It is the most important example of the work of a group of painters of the Venetian occupation period, who remained attached to traditional Byzantine art, whilst having limited western influences.
is the same kind of art which we observe during the 16th century in various Greek lands under Ottoman occupation.
The unknown artist was influenced by the art of the Palaiologan period but at the same time kept his own style with some influences from western art. The artist seems to have been very capable and a master in the drawing of standing human figures.
On the external side of the west wall of the church there are some later wall-paintings, dated to 1612.
The wooden painted iconostasis dates to the beginning of the 18th century.
Most of the portable icons are dated to the same period and are the work of painter Mathaios Koutloumousios, a monk from Mount Athos.
Source: Department of Antiquities, Republic of Cyprus
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More information about the Cypriot monuments of UNESCO see here
District: Nicosia
Address: Palaichori T.K. 2745 Nicosia
Accreditation: Metropolis Tamasos and Mountain & UNESCO
Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10:00-13:00. By arrangement in advance one can visit in the evenings of weekdays and weekends. Monday is closed.
Operation Period: All year
Facilities: Parking is available. There are restrooms but no for people in wheelchairs. The church is accessible for people in wheelchairs. There is a shop where visitors can buy various souvenirs books (Greek and English) and pictures. There is a brochure which is given free in Greek and English. The transactions are cash only.
Telephone / Fax: 00357-99974230 and 00357-99793362 / –
Website / Email: www.imtamasou.org.cy & www.unesco.org.cy / grammateia@imtamasou.org.cy & unesco@culture.moec.gov.cy
Admission: Free. Accepted voluntary contributions.
Ticket Fee: –
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