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
The Church of Saints CONSTANTINE and HELENA is located in the elevated village of Tochni, which is situated within the Larnaca district. 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 after a brutal civil war. He maintained that his Christian faith helped him to claim victory over his adversaries throughout the conflict. He then granted religious tolerance to all Christians throughout his empire, which created much-needed stability. In 313, the EDICT OF MILAN was signed, paving 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 in their writings. They describe how HELENA returned to the island after her pilgrimage to the Holy Lands in the year 327. She then helped to establish three 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 at each site. These included a fragment of the True Cross and the large Cross of Tochni, which were all attributed to several miracles at each site.
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, but again, this building has not survived.
A NEW CHURCH
BUILT IN 1936
The current 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 a Latin priest stole the holy relic 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 when Gabriel’s monastery was later abandoned.
A CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
& AN ANNUAL FESTIVAL CELEBRATED ON MAY 21ST
Providing solace and hope to the local community during difficult times, this church has remained a steadfast presence in the village of Tochni over the years. It 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 communal gathering place, and May 21st marks the annual feast day of the Saints CONSTANTINE and HELENA. Visitors from all over the island often gather on this day 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. This has been important not only for maintaining the church as a place of worship, but also for safeguarding its cultural heritage. The local municipality, along with several community leaders, has collaborated to maintain the church’s structural integrity and its aesthetic appeal. They have overseen several restoration projects, as a result, focusing on repairing and maintaining the church’s frescoes. 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 past and the enduring faith of its inhabitants. Its dedication to two of Christianity’s most significant figures highlights its importance to the island’s 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 history.
