Pelendri is one of the biggest villages in the area of Pitsilia. When travelling from the mountains of Pitsilia towards Pafos we usually pass from Pelendri.
For the first time we decided to visit the Church of "Holy Cross", one of the oldest and most important Churches of Cyprus. Dating back in 1178 the Church consists of 3 parts unified in one building on different dates.
On the oldest part, which is the Church of the "Holy Cross", one can actually see a piece of the Cross, Jesus was crucified! That alone makes the Church a very special place to visit. Pieces of the Holy Cross have been brought to Cyprus by "Saint Helen", mother of the Emperor of Byzantium, Constantine the Great!
Furthermore the Church has clear influence from the era of the Crusaders. A big wooden Cross with a smaller metal Crusaders Cross inside, is estimated to be between 500-800 years old. On the floor of the Church on one side, someone can clearly see exquisite symbols and bizarre emblems that have not yet been interpreted or identified as to their meaning.
The wall paintings, are of various styles due to the different parts of the Church, but the oldest ones are clearly influenced by the Byzantine era, and are in a good condition at a big part of the Church.
The Church can be visited at any time of the day usually, as Mr Andreas who lives by the Church is always available to open the door and give you an unforgettable tour (for Greek speakers).
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