The Old Church of Saint John the Baptist is one of the most important religious sites in the community of Kornos. The presence of the church in people’s daily lives makes it a point of reference, connection, and inspiration for the community, linking the past with the present and strengthening the sense of unity among residents and beyond.
Menoumekypro.com visited Kornos and had the honor to meet Father Antonios Panagi, who brought the history of the church back to life and explained why it is unique.
The old church of Saint John the Baptist in Kornos, indeed. Where faith illuminates time.
Architectural and Historical Elements
According to Father Antonios Panagi, the church is an old building with unique characteristics for the area and a rich history. He explained that restoration began five years ago, during which it was discovered that beneath this church, there are three other churches. He also noted that “this church is significant and it is the only one with a well inside.” It is the holy water of Saint John the Baptist. “Residents,” he said, “come here when there are illnesses, earthquakes, and seek refuge in the church by taking holy water.”
Another important feature that makes the church unique is the symbols at the entrance of the Sacred Church, which are Byzantine. According to Father Antonios, “This shows exactly that the second church built here in the community, was funded by the Byzantine state.”
It is worth mentioning that within the church there is a Holy Altar, which is unique in Cyprus as it is built on carved stone. Based on this, Father Antonios explained that craftsmen from Damascus created a magnificent Holy Altar not found in other Cypriot churches but only in places like Jerusalem.
An additional special feature found in the church is an 11th-century icon, depicting Saint John the Baptist and Saint Nicholas together – something rare for the Byzantine period.
One might say that the old church of Saint John the Baptist in Kornos is not just a structure from the past but a living witness to history and faith; a place where every architectural and historical element harmoniously combines to “illuminate” time and inspire both visitors and future generations.
