Church of Agia Kyriaki and Saint Paul's Pillar, Paphos

In the heart of Kato Paphos, where the whispers of history echo through time, you'll find Saint Paul's Pillar. This sacred site is not merely a pillar but a beacon illuminating the early Christian heritage of the island and the arduous journey taken by the early Christian pioneers to spread their faith.

Built in the 13th century, the Church of Panayia Chrysopolitissa, also known as 'Our Lady of the Golden City' or Ayia Kyriaki, stands on the hallowed ground where the early Christians laid the foundation for the faith that would shape the destiny of Cyprus. This church emerged upon the ruins of an early Byzantine basilica, signifying a continuous thread of religious significance across centuries.

Saint Paul's Pillar, which resides nearby, is the epicenter of a transformative moment in early Christian history. It was here, after enduring a flogging, that Saint Paul, the indefatigable apostle, achieved a remarkable feat. He managed to convert the Roman governor Sergius Paulus to Christianity, an event that left an indelible mark on the religious landscape of Cyprus.

The church was originally a magnificent seven-aisled basilica, but over time, it underwent a transformation, reducing its structure to five aisles. Beneath its arching walls, the basilica's mosaic-laden floor told stories of beauty, devotion, and spirituality. Some fragments of these exquisite mosaics still grace the sacred site, offering a glimpse into the artistic and religious fervor of the past.