Several churches and chapels in Latsia can be linked to specific construction periods; Kakkaristras Gorge points to geological development around two million years ago. Green spaces complement these different perspectives. When planning a trip, it is worth considering sacred local history and nature as separate points of interest.

Churches and chapels: different histories of construction

The Chapel of Saint Photini in Latsia was built between 1990 and 1991 on the ruins of an older church. The Chapel of Saint Marina is also located in Latsia. At Photini, two time periods therefore come together: the building dates from the late 20th century, while its site is also shaped by an older church.

The new Church of Saint George was built between 1959 and 1962 near the ruins of two older churches also dedicated to Saint George. Their shared dedication connects the new church with the earlier places of worship. The physical relationship with the past is also revealing: at Photini, the building was constructed on the ruins of an older church, while the Church of Saint George stands near the ruins of two older churches.

The Church of Saint Eleftherios was built between 1990 and 1993, replacing a prefabricated church. The Church of Saint Philippos was built between 1988 and 1993. The two periods overlap and both follow the construction of the Church of Saint George. Photini’s construction period, from 1990 to 1991, also falls within this later phase. The different building histories stand out in comparison: a new church near older ruins, a building on the ruins of an older church, and the explicitly stated replacement of a prefabricated church. Check whether the churches are accessible before visiting.

Parks and geological history

Latsia has more than 20 green parks dedicated to national heroes and other prominent figures. These dedications connect the green spaces with the commemoration of these individuals. In addition, part of Latsia lies within Athalassa National Forest Park. Together, the parks and the national forest park bring two different aspects to the nature theme: dedicated green spaces and the fact that part of the area lies within the park.

Kakkaristras Gorge is in the vicinity of Latsia, about 500 metres to the southwest. It is described as a tributary of the Kalogiros. Its fossil-bearing walls reveal the final stages of the emergence of central Mesaoria from the sea around two million years ago. Its approximate location places the gorge near Latsia; the geological interpretation reaches far beyond the churches’ construction periods. Two clearly distinct timescales therefore sit side by side here: building projects from the 20th century and a geological process from around two million years ago.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Kalopanayiotis, Klirou, Geri, Dali, Pera, Sha, Kakopetria, Lakatamia

For the broader travel overview: Nicosia.