The church, also called Ayios Elias Church, is located on a high cliff overlooking the boundless sea in the city of Protaras. It was built in the XIV century in honor of the prophet Elijah, who was sent to earth in the XI century BC so that the Israelite king Ahab would recognize his mistaken beliefs and turn to God.
Since Ayios Elias Church is located on top of a hill (115 m above sea level), you have to reach it on foot. Steps carved into the rock lead up from the highway. They say a special tradition is associated with them: as you go up and come back down, you need to count the steps.
Theoretically, their number should be the same, but in practice it often differs. If the number of steps matches, you can breathe a sigh of relief - all your sins have been forgiven. The difference in the numbers indicates exactly how many sins you still have left.
Inside, the church is decorated with frescoes. They depict Orthodox saints and scenes from biblical stories. Admission is free, but in the evening the church closes quite early.
Even if you do not manage to get inside, you can simply admire the magnificent views from the hill, and at the same time make a wish. Near the church there is a tree hung with colorful ribbons. There is a belief that you need to tie a scarf while making a wish - then it will surely come true.
