If you are visiting Larnaka city this spring, a unique celebration to add to your list is the annual Agios Lazaros (Saint Lazarus) procession that is only held in Larnaka and takes place on April 27 this year (6.30pm), as well as Easter Monday events at the villages (May 6).

The procession is held eight days before Easter and is a grand affair. After the church service, a procession led by the priest tours the saint’s icon and relics around the old city streets, accompanied by citizens, dignitaries and organised groups, including bands that herald the procession. A fete is also held at the square by the church. 

Agios Lazaros is the city’s patron saint who came to the island after being resurrected by Jesus at the age of 30. He was ordained as Bishop of Kition by the Apostles Barnabas and Paul and lived in the town for 30 years. Byzantine Emperor Leo VI (King Leo the Wise) built the church that still holds the saint’s tomb during the 9th century. You can hear the king’s character narration and his admiration for Agios Lazaros as part of the Larnaka Storytelling Statues here. 

The saint’s legend is also connected to Larnaka Salt Lake. It is said that the area was once filled with vines and Agios Lazaros stopped to ask the owner for some water and food. Upon refusal the saint cursed the vines to dry up and be turned into a salt flat; a version that is disputed by some as it paints the saint in an uncharitable light. Another version claims that the miracle was actually a gift for Larnaka as salt then became an important export for the city. The lake is now a popular tourist attraction for the large flocks of migrating Greater Flamingos it attracts each winter.

The church’s museum is included in the Larnaka Virtual Museum series and can be explored here in lieu of a visit.  

The traditional Easter Monday event is held at villages across Larnaka region. The custom includes playing yard games, complimentary drink and nibbles (varies depending on the community) and folkloric entertainment. Check the online event calendar nearer the time to see which communities will hold public events on May 6.