ANTIPHONITIS CHURCH
It’s known that this church was used to the seed of an important monastery. Its dome is placed on eight round columns which form an irregular octagon. The part called as bema and the rest of the church were tried to be separated by keeping two of the columns separated from the walls. Considering its features this building is one of the finest of its kind in Cyprus which remain today.
The nartex part with barrel vaults on the west and cloister arrangements on the south
were added in the 14th or 15th centuries. The cloister arrangement on the south
is a unique example of gothic stone work. However, nothing left behind from the wooden
upper-cover and the stone parapet made between the columns.
Antiphonitis means “Replying Christ”. The building in its original form was fully covered with wall paints (Frescos) instead of nartex. Most of these frescos have unfortunately disappeared. The frescos can be dated in two different periods : 12th or 13th centuries and 14th or 15th centuries. Besides the Biblical themes, the frescos also describe the Saints. Moreover, although they couldn’t survive till today, it,s known that themes from the Old Testament were also described. Baptise of Christ, Birth of Mary, St. Symeon Stylites are among the wall paints which still remain till today.
ESKİ ESERLER ve MÜZELER DAİRESİ
DEPARTMENT OF ANTIQUITIES AND MUSEUMS
DIRECTIONS
From the village follow signs to the school. At the roundabout take first exit and follow road to a junction. Carry straight on for approx 5 km and Antiphonitis is signposted on the left.
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