AN AGE-OLD LANDMARK
IN THE VILLAGE OF TOCHNI
A TRIBUTE TO THE FIRST CHRISTIAN ROMAN EMPEROR & HIS MOTHER HELENA
A TESTAMENT TO THE ISLAND'S EARLY CHRISTIAN HERITAGE
Situated within the district of Larnaca, the Church of Saints CONSTANTINE and HELENA is located in the elevated village of Tochni. Dedicated to the first Christian Roman Emperor, CONSTANTINE and his mother, HELENA, this church continues to stand as a testament to the island’s early Christian heritage. This church not only represents a place of worship but also a significant historical landmark that reflects the evolution of Christianity in Cyprus.
THE EDICT OF MILAN
RELIGIOUS TOLERENCE TO ALL CHRISTIANS WITHIN ROME'S EMPIRE
CONSTANTINE THE GREAT became Roman Emperor in the year 306. This came after a brutal civil war, which saw him use his Christian faith to help claim victory over his rivals. A much-needed stability was then achieved when he granted religious tolerance to all Christians throughout his empire. In 313, the EDICT OF MILAN was signed, and this helped to pave the way for Christianity to become the empire’s dominant religion. Both his and his mother’s relentless Christian efforts, thereafter, led to them both being honoured as Christian saints.
A FRAGMENT OF THE HOLY CROSS
BROUGHT TO THE ISLAND BY SAINT HELENA
Historians Leontios Machairas and Louis de Mas Latrie both describe significant Christian contributions to Cyprus from HELENA in their writings. They describe how she returned to the island after her pilgrimage to the Holy Lands in the year 327. She helped to establish major Christian monasteries at Stavrovouni and in the villages of Tochni and Omodos. She then helped to root each site into early Christian doctrines by placing sacred relics that were all attributed to several miracles at each site. These included a fragment of the True Cross and the large Cross of Tochni, as it later became known.
THE ARKATZIN RIVER
IN THE VILLAGE OF TOCHNI
The original monastery in the village of Tochni was situated above the Arkatzin River. Erected in the 4th century, it was built directly on the bridge over the river. Although the original monastery has not survived, remnants of it remain at the onsite Byzantine Museum, which flanks today’s church. Behind the church, on a steep slope, there is also a cave with a stone bed. This is said to have once been inhabited by a hermit monk who presided over the original church. The Latin Church of Timios Stavros then replaced the original structure in the 14th century. Again, this building did not survive. The rectangular church, which stands on the site today, was built in 1936. Constructed using local stone, it is characterised by its simple yet elegant architectural style that blends harmoniously with the surrounding area. The church has a single dome and several simplified arches and vaults that resemble crosses. Its shutters and window frames are embellished with intricately detailed carved decorations, and this, along with its traditional gabled roof and small bell tower, helps to create its rustic charm.
BEAUTIFUL FRESCOES & ICONS
DEPICTING VARIOUS SAINTS & SEVERAL BIBLICAL SCENES
The church inside is adorned with a series of beautiful frescoes and icons. These depict various saints and several biblical scenes. These artworks not only enhance the spirituality of the church but also serve as a visual narrative of the Greek Orthodox Christian faith. The altar area is also particularly noteworthy, forming the focal point of the church’s liturgical activities.
THE LARGE CROSS OF TOCHNI
FOREVER LOST TO THE MIDST OF TIME
The Large Cross of Tochni is a relic that was attributed to several miracles. Adorned with rare jewels, legend has it that the holy relic was stolen by a Latin priest during the time of Frankish rule. He then attempted to leave the island by sea, but his efforts were thwarted by a violent storm. In desperation, he is said to have discarded the cross in a nearby field after removing its valuable gemstones. A young shepherd, who eventually became a monk adopting the name of Gabriel, discovered the cross several years later. Gabriel would eventually oversee the construction of a new monastery near Nicosia, which would then house the cross. Unfortunately, the cross would be lost again after Gabriel’s monastery was later abandoned.
A CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
& AN ANNUAL FESTIVAL CELEBRATED ON MAY 21ST
Providing solace and hope to the local area during difficult times, the church has remained a steadfast presence in the village of Tochni over the years. The church also acts as a village focal point and plays a vital role in the spiritual life of the local community. As well as a place of worship and religious ceremonies, the church often serves as a gathering place for several locals. May 21st marks the annual feast day of the Saints CONSTANTINE and HELENA. On this day, visitors from all over the island often gather to participate in several festivities. This event typically includes a special liturgy, followed by communal meals and several cultural activities.
RESTORATION & PRESERVATION
FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
The church remains a place of worship and a centre for community life in the village of Tochni. In recent years, preservation efforts have been crucial. Not only for maintaining the church as a place of worship, but also for safeguarding its cultural heritage. The local authority, along with several community leaders, has collaborated to maintain the church’s structural integrity. They have also tried to retain its aesthetic appeal, and they have overseen several restoration projects focusing on repairing and maintaining the church’s frescoes. The ongoing efforts to preserve and restore this cherished landmark ensure that future generations will continue to appreciate its historical and spiritual significance.
A STEADFAST REMINDER OF THE ISLAND'S PAST
& A SYMBOL OF VILLAGE CULTURE
To most, the Church of Saints CONSTANTINE and HELENA is more than just a religious building. It stands as a landmark and a symbol of village culture and ongoing community spirit. The church also serves as a reminder of the village’s history and the enduring faith of its inhabitants. Its dedication to two of Christianity’s most significant figures highlights its importance to the island and the Christian faith. As the village of Tochni continues to evolve into the modernity of the 21st century, the church remains a steadfast reminder of the island’s past.
