B' Religious Route

The second religious route is an educational activity suitable for everybody (for families with young children, students, adults) and especially for ecclesiastical tourism, which enables travelers to be informed about important aspects of the religious history of Cyprus.

This route is proposed to be completed by road and can be carried out without the help of a guide, but the presence of a guide may provide more complete information about the historical events concerning each religious site. In addition, due to the relatively close distance between the sites of this route, it is possible to complete it within the same day.

The most appropriate period to make the trip is during the religious festival of Omodos, which takes place on September 14th and is dedicated to the Holy Cross. However, due to the mild weather conditions that usually prevail in Cyprus, the route can be carried out all year round.

B 'religious route- Detailed description

For travelers based in the urban centres of Nicosia, Larnaca or Limassol, it is suggested that the starting point of the route is the village of Agios Omodos while for those based in the urban centres of Paphos, the village of Salamiou is suggested (following a reverse route).

Initially, travelers can visit the village of Omodos for a pilgrimage to the monastery of Apostolos Philippos (which is the oldest monastery of the village), the famous monastery of the Holy Cross, as well as the chapels of Prophet Elias, Agios Spyridon and Agia Paraskevi.

Then, in the neighboring village of Arsos, are the temples of Apostolos Philippos and Agia Mariamni.

Finally, travelers can visit Salamiou village, which has a rich religious history, as witnessed by its churches and chapels located in the area. The main religious source is the monastery of Panagia Salamiotissa among the oaks protected by Virgin Mary, as well as the church of Agia Varvara and the chapels of Agia Paraskevi and Agios Georgios.

The route may well be extended, with a total duration of 2 days. In this case, travelers are expected to spend the night in one of the local agritourism accommodation and dine in one of the dining areas in the area, continuing the next day with the  first religious route.