Religion in Cyprus – From Ancient Gods to Modern Faiths
Religion in Cyprus has evolved over thousands of years, shaped by empires, cultures, and major historical turning points. From the worship of ancient gods to the rise of Christianity, the influence of Judaism, and the arrival of Islam, religion in Cyprus tells the story of the island itself — a crossroads of civilizations in the Eastern Mediterranean.
In ancient times, religion in Cyprus centered around Greek and Phoenician deities. Temples dedicated to Aphrodite, Apollo, and other gods were spread across the island, particularly in places like Paphos and Kourion. These early belief systems were deeply connected to nature, fertility, and the sea, which played a central role in everyday life.