Religion in Cyprus

Greek Orthodoxy

The majority religion in Cyprus is that of Greek Orthodox Christianity. According to 'Operation World' 2001 edition, 74% of people in  Cyprus consider themselve to be Greek Orthodox.   Since this statistic covers the whole island, and there are few Christians in the North, this means that probably 80% of people in the South are affiliated in some way with the Greek Orthodox Church.   This is part of the Eastern Orthodox communion.    

There are several Orthodox churches in each town, and between towns, of varying sizes.   While many people only attend at major festivals, there are some who visit their local church not just on Sundays, but on Saints' days and other midweek services too.   The services are in Ancient Greek, and are often relayed on loudspeakers outside the buildings. People come and go as they wish - the services can last two hours or more, but it's not unusual for people to be coming and going throughout. Men and women sit on different sides of the church.  

Wikipedia article about the Orthodox Church in Cyprus
Details of the main bishoprics, with contact information
Article about Greek Orthodoxy in general

Protestant churches

There are Anglican (Church of England) churches in each of the major towns, and a number of other English-speaking churches, mostly evangelical, including  Reformed Presbyterian and New Frontiers.   These congregations mostly feature ex-pat Brits (many of them retired) and other Europeans, and some Americans, although there are a significant number of international students, Christian workers, and even a few Cypriots.  They are generally fairly informal and welcome visitors.  

In Larnaka, you can find:  Grace Church (New Frontiers), St Helena's (Anglican) and Larnaka Community Church.   There is also an International Evangelical church, Trinity Fellowship (Reformed Presbyterian), and a Baptist church.  In addition there is a Greek Evangelical Church, a Chinese Fellowship, and a Filipino Church.  

In Nicosia, you can find: St Paul's Cathedral (Anglican), Nicosia International Church, Nicosia Community Church or New Life International Fellowship (evangelical).  

In Limassol, you can find:  International Christian Fellowship which has several congregations, Limassol Church of Christ, or St Barnabas (Anglican).

In Paphos, there is: Paphos Christian Fellowship International;  in Ayia Napa there is:  the Anglican Church of South East Cyprus

Some of the evangelical churches in Cyprus (with contact details)
Anglican churches in Cyprus

Roman Catholic Churches

Roman Catholic Churches in Cyprus include:  the Latin Catholic Church of Paphos,  Terra Santa in Larnaka, St Catherine's in Limassol, and Holy Cross in Nicosia.

Further information about the Catholic Church in Cyprus
Some history of the Catholic Church in Cyprus

Islam

Although Islam is the dominant religion in the North of Cyprus, there are very few Muslims in the South.  There are, however, a few mosques, including the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque near the Salt Lake in Larnaka.  

Judaism

There is one Jewish synagogue in Larnaka, inaugurated in 2005.   

General

Cyprus has complete freedom of religion, despite Greek Orthodoxy being the majority faith, and an increasing number of people living in Cyprus have no religious affiliation at all.   Many of the traditional church buildings are beautifully kept or renovated, and are generally open to visitors.  Ensure that you dress and behave respectfully:  this usually means ensuring that skirts are at least knee-length, shoulders are covered, and no shorts.  Trousers on women are generally acceptable.   If visiting a mosque, expect to take your shoes off at the entrance.  Photographs are usually not allowed inside Greek Orthodox church buildings;  visitors should speak in quiet voices and avoid running around.  You may be asked if you want to light a candle (and give a donation) but this is entirely optional.