The Maronites of Cyprus

THE MARONITES OF CYPRUS 19 Churches, Monasteries and Chapels The 1974 Turkish invasion had devastating consequences for the Maronite community of Cyprus, which, in addition to its economic destruction, was faced with the serious problem of preserving its cultural and religious identity. In 1974 there was only one Maronite church in the government controlled area of Cyprus, the Virgin Mary of Graces cathedral in Nicosia. After many sacrifices by the enclaved Maronites, and after representations by the government of Cyprus and by the Holy See, the Maronites have succeeded in regularly holding Mass at some of the churches in their occupied villages. The following churches and chapels are located in the Turkish occupied areas: Kormakitis: Mass is held at Saint George cathedral (1933) in the village square, at the old Saint George church, located at the Franciscan sisters’ nunnery (1534), at the picturesque chapel of Saint George of Kornos (1852) – which celebrates the feast day of Saint George of the Seed on 3 November – and at the Virgin Mary Chapel (1453) on the west side of the village. ● Archangel Michael’s church in Asomatos. ● The cathedral of the Virgin Mary of Graces in Paphos Gate area in Nicosia.