Painted Churches in the Troodos Region are undergoing conservation, protection and upgrade works, while a measure ensuring regular public access is already increasing visitor numbers.
The progress was presented during a visit by Deputy Minister of Culture Lina Kassianidou, accompanied by Antiquities Department Director Chrysanthi Kounnou, to the Church of the Holy Cross of Agiasmati in Platanistasa and the Church of Panagia tou Araka in Lagoudera.
The two churches are among the ten painted churches of Troodos included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Improved access and visitor facilities
At the Church of the Holy Cross of Agiasmati, improvement works to access routes have already been completed, addressing a long-standing request from the local community.
Further interventions are continuing to upgrade infrastructure, improve visitor services and strengthen protection of the monument.
The Deputy Ministry of Culture said that fixed opening hours have been introduced since last year for all UNESCO-listed painted churches in the Troodos region.
Increased opening hours boost visits
With funding from the Department of Antiquities, staff have been hired to provide security and assist visitors, allowing the churches to remain open six days a week.
From 16 April to 15 September, opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 5.30 pm, and Sunday from 11 am to 4.30 pm.
From 16 September to 15 April, the churches operate Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4.30 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 4.30 pm.
According to the Deputy Ministry, the arrangement has already resulted in a noticeable rise in visitor numbers, as recorded in guest books.
Conservation works at Panagia tou Araka
At Panagia tou Araka in Lagoudera, specialised conservation works are underway on the monument’s external wooden structures and masonry.
The works are being carried out by teams from the Department of Antiquities and aim to ensure the long-term preservation of the historic church.
The project is expected to be completed in November 2026.
Upgrades continue at Agios Irakleidios Monastery
Kassianidou also visited the Monastery of Agios Irakleidios in Politiko, where conservation works and improvements to the surrounding area are continuing.
The project, with a budget exceeding €2 million, is being implemented by the Department of Antiquities in cooperation with the Public Works Department.
It is expected to be completed by the end of the year and will include new facilities and landscaping improvements aimed at protecting the monument and enhancing the visitor experience.
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