Panagia

Panagia, a small mountainous village, is situated on the outskirts of Paphos forest, within the Paphos district.

The name "Panagia" is closely linked to Virgin Mary, as numerous churches and monasteries dedicated to her grace the area, giving the village its name. Due to its location in the foothills of the mountains at an altitude of 900 meters above sea level, it is also known as "Pano Panagia," with "Pano" translating to "up" or "on the top of."

Panagia village is predominantly associated with religion, owing to the abundance of churches, small chapels, and monasteries that surround it. The main church, situated at the village center, is dedicated to Saint George and was constructed between 1929 and 1932. Beyond the village, within the forestry area, stands the stone-built chapel of Saint George of Emnon ("Άγιος Γεώργιος των Εμνών"), named after the adjacent forest region called "Emnes." Northeast of the village, a small stone-built chapel, Panagia Eleousa, is devoted to Virgin Mary. Other chapels in the vicinity include the chapel of Prophet Elias, Saint Kyriacos, and two more chapels dedicated to Virgin Mary.

A few kilometers from Panagia village lies the Monastery of Panagia Chrysorrogiatissa, translated as "Our Lady of the Golden Pomegranate." Founded in the 12th century by the monk Ignatius, the current church dates to the 18th century due to past destructions. Inside the church, frescoes dating back over three centuries grace the walls, and the monastery houses a significant collection of icons and treasures, including the silver icon of Virgin Mary. Adjacent to the monastery, visitors can find the old winery producing wine from the monastery's vineyards, a cafeteria with breathtaking views, and a century-old pine tree.

Notably, Pano Panagia is the birthplace of Archbishop Makarios III, the first president of the Republic of Cyprus. The village pays homage to his memory with the restored house of his birth, now serving as a small local museum, a statue of Archbishop Makarios, and the Cultural Centre, named in his honor.

To explore the breathtaking nature and beauty of the surroundings, visitors can embark on the Nature Trail. Starting opposite the village's cultural center, the hiking trail "Vouni" spans approximately 10 kilometers, passing through vineyards renowned for local wine production, and the Natura 2000 area "Vouni Panagias." Natura 2000, a protected zone, boasts vital natural habitats, significant wildlife species like the Cyprus mouflon, diverse birdlife, and rare plant varieties. The trail further leads to the Monastery of Panagia Chrysorrogiatissa.

A hidden gem within Paphos forest, Panagia village offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture, savor the enchanting scenery, and delve into the natural environment.