AN AGE-OLD LANDMARK
IN THE VILLAGE OF TOCHNI
The Church of Saints CONSTANTINE and HELENA is located in the elevated village of Tochni, in the district of Larnaca. Dedicated to the first Christian Roman Emperor, CONSTANTINE THE GREAT, and his mother HELENA, this church stands as a testament to the island’s early Christian heritage in the region. This church is not only a place of worship but also a significant historical landmark that reflects the evolution of Christianity in Cyprus.
CONSTANTINE’S EDICT
GRANTED RELIGIOUS TOLERENCE TO ALL CHRISTIANS WITHIN HIS EMPIRE
CONSTANTINE THE GREAT became Roman Emperor in the year 306. In 313, he granted religious tolerance for all Christians within the Roman Empire in the form of the Edict of Milan. This marked the beginning of Christianity becoming the empire’s dominant religion. His relentless religious efforts, after adopting Christianity and the edict of Milan, led to both CONSTANTINE THE GREAT and his mother HELENA 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 tell about significant Christian contributions to Cyprus from HELENA. They describe how she returned to the island after her pilgrimage to the Holy Lands in the year 327. She then went on to establish a major Christian monastery in the region of Stavrovouni and in the villages of Tochni and Omodos. She brought with her sacred relics that she then placed at each site. These included a fragment of the True Cross, along with another larger holy relic that was attributed to several miracles. The Cross of Tochni, as it later became known, along with other relics, helped to deeply root each site into early Christian doctrines on the island. Whilst other relics are still preserved on the island today, the Cross of Tochni has been lost through the annals of time.
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. The 14th-century Latin Church of Timios Stavros then replaced the original structure, but that has also not survived. 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, which allows it to blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. Adorned with a dome, the church also exhibits simplified arches and vaults designed to resemble crosses. Its shutters and window frames are embellished with intricately detailed carved decorations. Adding to its rustic charm, it also features a traditional gabled roof with a small bell tower.
BEAUTIFUL FRESCOES & ICONS
DEPICTING VARIOUS SAINTS & SEVERAL BIBLICAL SCENES
The church inside is adorned with a series of beautiful frescoes and icons that 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 particularly noteworthy, forming the focal point of the church’s liturgical activities. Behind the church, on a steep slope, there is a cave with a stone bed that is said to have once been inhabited by a hermit monk.
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 during the time of Frankish rule, a Latin priest stole the holy relic. He then attempted to leave the island by sea, but his efforts were thwarted by a violent storm. In desperation, he discarded the cross in a nearby field after removing its valuable gemstones. A young shepherd who eventually became a monk, adopting the name 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. As the years passed, however, the relic would once again be lost after Gabriel’s monastery fell into disrepair and became abandoned.
A CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
& AN ANNUAL FESTIVAL CELEBRATED ON MAY 21ST
The church has remained a steadfast presence in the village of Tochni. Over the years, it has provided solace and hope to the local area during difficult times. 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. Local authorities and community leaders have collaborated to maintain the church’s structural integrity. They have also tried to retain the church’s aesthetic appeal. This has come in the form of several restoration projects focusing on repairing and maintaining its 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.
