Agioi Saranta Cave Church

Agioi Saranta Cave Church is a rare example of an active Christian chapel set inside a natural cave, hidden in the hills just above Protaras. Unlike most churches on the island, this small shrine has barely altered the cave’s original form, preserving rugged walls, a whitewashed floor, and a simple dome that lets in soft natural light. Visitors pass through a plain blue door to find just a handful of icons and simple benches, with the cavern itself providing much of the atmosphere. The space is quiet and unadorned, ideal for visitors who appreciate reflective places and enjoy the sense of reaching somewhere a little off the main trail.

What makes it special

Experience a stunning and peaceful walk through Arkakoudia forest to reach the cave church

Explore a unique Greek Orthodox church built inside an old cave with small stalagmites

Enjoy panoramic views of Protaras from a tower above the cave

This spot appeals to those seeking a break from busier attractions or the usual facilities of the coast. Agioi Saranta is most rewarding for walkers and those interested in local stories. Access requires navigating sporadic gravel roads, usually followed by a brief uphill walk and steps. The surroundings are peaceful, often with few if any others about.

Guest feedback frequently highlights the atmosphere, the location, and food quality.

Ello says

Consider hiking instead of driving up to Agioi Saranta Cave Church for a more leisurely experience and to visit other lesser-known churches in the area

Park at the entrance of the dirt road leading to the cave if you prefer walking over rough terrain

Visit early in the day or during weekdays for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities

Respectful attire is recommended when entering this religious site

Reviews

Google reviews sit at 4.7 from 612 reviews, while Tripadvisor is at 4.6 from 44, so the response looks consistent across both sources. Recent comments most often mention the setting, the value for money, and the food.

Google
Google612 reviews
4.7/5
Tripadvisor
Tripadvisor44 reviews
4.6/5

Google rating breakdown

5 stars503
4 stars75
3 stars26
2 stars4
1 star4
5/5

Ibo Ücel

23 June 2025from GoogleGoogle

The Agoi Sairanta Cave Church is a truly special place. We drove there on a Tuesday with our buggy via an unpaved road and were absolutely amazed by what we found: a small chapel carved directly into the rock. At the very top, there’s a small stone tower-like structure – truly impressive. We were completely alone and walked up the steps, instantly feeling that this place holds something mystical, as if desperate souls once came here in search of peace.Standing in the center of the chapel and looking up, you see the light pouring in through the dome – it’s a powerful and moving experience. It’s hard to explain, but this place has a unique energy. If you’re nearby, it’s absolutely worth a visit. Highly recommended!

5/5

Jacky B

16 September 2025from GoogleGoogle

Beautiful, well-maintained cave church.It's wonderfully peaceful, with a fantastic view.There are also two kittens with a mother cat.The mother cat hunts during the day and is only seen in the evening.So don't worry, they'll be well looked after.But to help them, bring a little food; they'll be very happy about it.There's also food near the trash can, in the small holes in the cave.

5/5

clare scotford

16 September 2025from GoogleGoogle

Absolutely beautiful.Lovely view.Some roads won't get you directly there and you'll need to walk some of it.

5/5

Janicke Hellum

28 September 2025from GoogleGoogle

We walked from Protaras and it was a nice walk. Approx.50 min.one way. You got a nice view when you climb to the tower of the little church. We went one way up and another way back.

5/5

Kypriopoulla

4 November 2025from GoogleGoogle

I have always wanted to visit this cave church and I have visited recently. After walking for 50 minutes from the main road as I'm wasn't driving I have reached the cave church and what a great sight that it was. The cave church is in a small cave, with a few icons and few pews.

5/5

rene klinkenberg

22 November 2025from GoogleGoogle

Lovely nice place to see. Best ist to rent a quad or buggy , its an offroad street,

5/5

Dimitris Charalambous

20 March 2023from GoogleGoogle

I drove all the dirt roads up to the place where there is the cave entrance. If I knew better from before I would park at the entrance of the dirt road and just hike my way since the road is paved and ok to walk in a leisurely manner. The cave has been transformed into a beautiful Greek Orthodox church and on the top of the cave there is a big hole which has been transformed into a dome! It is magnificent as a photography spot, both of locals and tourists. The cave is really strong in a spiritual way of speaking for those who can feel energy, prana and reiki. Immediately as you enter it you will feel being cleansed by invisible light forces guarding the area. I highly suggest you can and hike the road up to the entrance since via hiking you can visit some other small churches in the area which are lesser known but well worth the recognition they deserve.

5/5

Doudel Boe

15 September 2025from GoogleGoogle

A beautiful, silent place with history. The path is not complicated or hard, it is possible to drive by car, of you dont want to walk.It is also a home of three Cats, a mother and two adorable baby cats, they will welcome you, when you arrive. Please feed them, if possible, it can be a hard life above there. Just place some cans in the rock wall (: there is a spoon und bowls for them

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to help you plan your visit to Agioi Saranta Cave Church.