DEDICATED TO THE
40 CHRISTIAN MARTYRS OF SABASTE
AN UNUSUAL LANDMARK
Carved into an elevated rock face, the Chapel of Ayioi Saranta is regarded as a special church in Cyprus. Tucked away in the rugged hills of the Fanós area, between Protaras and Ayia Napa, this historic place of Greek Orthodox worship dominates the landscape in several ways. The elevated chapel is also widely celebrated as one of the most uniquely original cave churches in the world.
DEDICATED TO THE FORTY MARTYRS OF SEBASTE
Dedicated to the forty Christian martyrs of Sebaste, the chapel’s name derives from the Greek word for ‘forty saints’. Located in present-day Turkey, Sebaste was the scene where forty Roman soldiers refused to renounce their Christian faith in the year 320. The forty stalactites in the church’s ceiling symbolise each one of the martyred saints.
A PROFOUND SENSE OF PEACE
Offering visitors a stunning panoramic view of the nearby coasts of Paralimni and Cape Greco, the chapel is characterised by its and its elevated position and its simplicity in design. Its single stone dome is enclosed by a whitewashed wall. This is crowned by a single white cross that dominates the entrance. The interior remains simple, and the modest altar, at the centre of the church, is flanked by very few icons. Helping to create an ambience of quiet reflection, the profound sense of peace and serenity is further enhanced by the natural sunlight and candles that illuminate the church.
THE FORTY MARTYRS OF SEBASTE
A CHRISTIAN FAITH
The chapel, in the Famagusta district, commemorates the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste. The name ‘Ayioi Saranta’, which translates from Greek to ‘Forty Saints’, is a direct reference to forty Roman soldiers of Christian faith who in the year 320, refused to adhere to traditional Roman polytheistic worship.
EARLY CHRISTIAN DOCTRINES
The Roman Empire at this time often demanded adherence to traditional polytheistic worship. This often conflicted with Christian monotheism, and as a result, several Christians often refused to participate in sacrifices to the Emperor or to the numerous Roman gods. This included forty Roman soldiers of Christian faith who were serving in the cohort stationed at Sebaste in modern-day Turkey.
A VIOLATION OF IMPERIAL EDICTS
Early Christian doctrines recount how these soldiers defiantly refused to renounce their faith. Considered a direct violation of imperial edicts and military discipline at the time, they were court-martialled and then sentenced to be executed. Their fate was sealed when they were shackled and left to freeze to death in a lake. They were elevated to saints after they became Christian martyrs. Their story remains as a powerful symbol of faith and Christian steadfastness under persecution.
STEADFASTNESS IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY
The story of their courage soon spread, and they went on to inspire other Christians in far-off lands. Their story of steadfastness in the face of adversity helped to portray the idea that spiritual courage transcended fear of physical harm. This took hold in several Christian circles thereafter.
THE ANNUAL FEAST DAY
The feast day of the Forty Saints of Sabaste is celebrated on January 9th every year. The number forty is used during these celebrations to highlight that a community can uphold conviction and emphasise a collective witness together.
UNCHANGED FOR CENTURIES
No definitive historical records pinpoint exactly when the cave was first consecrated as a church, though it has been preserved unchanged by monks and locals for centuries. In a fascinating blend of nature and folklore, the 40 stalactites hanging from the cave ceiling are traditionally linked to the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste.
KEY FEATURES OF THE CHAPEL
The Facade: The entrance of the natural cave is enclosed by a simple, whitewashed stone wall featuring a striking, bright blue wooden door and a stone cross.
The Skylight Dome: On top of the hill, a small stone cupola/drum dome sits directly over an opening in the cave roof. This acts as a chimney-style bell tower and filters vibrant beams of natural sunlight directly into the dim interior.
The Interior: Inside, the chapel is raw, minimalist, and peaceful. There are no glass windows, no elaborate iconostasis, and very little furniture. Religious icons and candles are tucked simply into the natural crevices of the stone walls.
Location: The chapel sits in a secluded, wild valley near the more famous Church of Profitis Ilias. Reaching the chapel requires driving down an unpaved, heavily rutted dirt road. While some visitors drive standard rental cars carefully, many choose to park nearby and hike the final stretch to protect their vehicles.
Access: The chapel is never locked and has no entrance fee.
General Advice: There are no shops or facilities nearby. Bringing sturdy shoes and plenty of water is advised. Visiting the chapel in the morning, when the sun perfectly illuminates the cave interior is also advised.
