On the evening of Thursday, November 30, the official inauguration of the renovated square and surrounding buildings near the Church of Saint George in Pegeia (Paphos District) took place. The ceremony was held in the presence of Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus, who led the blessing of the newly restored area. The event was attended by numerous representatives of the government, local authorities, clergy, and residents.
The renovation project was carried out through close cooperation between the Paphos Metropolis and the Church Council of Saint George in Pegeia. Its main goal was to highlight the historical and spiritual significance of this sacred site, restore its original beauty, and adapt it to modern needs.
Spiritual and Historical Significance
In his address, Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus emphasized that Pegeia has long held strategic importance for the region: it was once the harbor where ships transporting grain to Constantinople would dock. He reminded the audience that Greeks from the Byzantine capital once lived and taught the faith here, which is why the local bishopric was called the “Episcopy of the Romans.”
“We stand on holy ground that has brought glory not only to this region but to all of Cyprus,” the Archbishop said, expressing gratitude to everyone who made the restoration a reality.
Marinos Lambrou, Mayor of the Akamas Municipality, noted that the municipality actively supports initiatives aimed at improving cultural landmarks. According to him, the town possesses both the resources and the knowledge to develop its infrastructure while preserving its natural and historical heritage — something that directly enhances residents’ quality of life and increases the area’s attractiveness to tourists.
Architectural Renewal and Spiritual Transformation
The entire complex — including the square and surrounding buildings — is owned by the Paphos Metropolis and the Church of Saint George in Pegeia. This area has become not only a spiritual hub but also part of Cyprus’s cultural heritage, valued by both older and younger generations.
Over the decades, church committees have taken care to preserve the temple, carrying out restoration works, reinforcing walls, and improving infrastructure — including creating parking areas for parishioners and visitors.
The recent large-scale renovation marks the culmination of years of effort to revitalize and elevate this sacred site. Special thanks were expressed to Archbishop Georgios for his spiritual guidance and support, and to the Paphos Metropolis for initiating and overseeing the project.
Private Initiative and Corporate Social Responsibility
A significant contribution to the project came from Korantina Homes, led by its founder and CEO George Ioannou. The company fully financed the reconstruction, setting an example of responsible business actively involved in preserving Cyprus’s spiritual and cultural legacy.
In recent years, Ioannou’s efforts have focused on reviving churches, cultural landmarks, and public spaces in Pegeia. His approach blends respect for tradition with a modern vision for regional development. Thanks to such initiatives, Pegeia is gradually transforming into a cultural and tourist center of the Paphos district, where history, spirituality, and contemporary architecture coexist in harmony.
Pegeia — A New Cultural Destination in Cyprus
The renovated square at the Church of Saint George has already become one of the region’s new landmarks, attracting both pilgrims and tourists eager to experience the seamless blend of tradition and modernity.
The architectural design combines Byzantine elements with modern urban aesthetics, creating an atmosphere that is both welcoming and dignified.
The Pegeia renovation project is part of a broader revival of cultural centers across Cyprus, where religious sites are becoming not only places of worship but also key cultural and touristic attractions.
Today, Pegeia is more than just a scenic resort in the Paphos area — it stands as a symbol of Cyprus’s renewed identity, where past and future meet in harmony, and spirituality becomes a driving force for development.