Agioi Saranta Chapel, Protaras
The Agioi Saranta Chapel is located in an iconic bay in Protaras close to the Church of Profitis Ilias, in the Ammochostos district.
It is a chapel which can be reached following a dirt road or one of the nature trails. In particular it is situated in the area of Fanou.
Fanos is the tallest hill in the area and it is built in a large natural cave that brings out feelings of primitive magnificence.
The stone dome on top of the wild rocks operates as a compass for the pilgrims towards the chapel. On the roof of the cave one will notice the forty stalactites which are linked with the Saranta Martyres (Forty Martyrs).
A low wall with a door was created for the protection of the area, however the sunlight passes into the cave. The door is always unlocked so that a visitor can enter the area at any point.
The interior of the cave maintains the primitive magnificence given by nature. There is no iconostasis, iconographies or hanging candles, apart from two icons on tripods and a few stools for visitors.
The only human intervention is the floor which has been made smooth and the construction of an altar in the east side.
Lastly, it is also worth mentioning that Agioi Saranta Chapel is very popular to locals and tourists due to its uniqueness.
