The small Orthodox Church of Ayios Elias (St Elias), located in Protaras, was built in honour of the prophet Elias back in the 14th century. It is located on the top of a cliff at the seashore. A narrow and steep staircase leads to the church. The locals believe that if you count the steps up and down the stairs and keep count so that the number of steps is the same, it will mean the remission of all sins.
The church of Agios Elias is made in the traditional Byzantine style and is famous, above all, for its beautiful ancient paintings, which are very well preserved to this day. These paintings mainly depict scenes from the Bible, as well as Orthodox saints. In general, inside the church looks quite modest, but cosy - there is a simple wooden altar, the walls, not covered with paintings, are painted in white. The roof of the temple is crowned with a traditional Byzantine style dome and a high cross, there is also a small bell tower.
But in the evening and at night this building can seem like a real palace thanks to the beautiful lighting, which literally transforms Ayios Elias.
Near the temple, which is very popular in Cyprus, grows a tree of wishes - to make a dream come true, to the branch you need to tie a ribbon or a handkerchief. And often tourists for this purpose even cut off a piece of their clothes.
Despite its rather solid age, the church of Ayios Elias is in excellent condition. The temple has been restored several times, thanks to which the beauty of this ancient structure has been preserved.
In addition, from the top of the cliff where Ayios Elias stands, you can enjoy a marvellous view of the surrounding area.
