Church of Saints Sergios and Vachos (Kissousa)

In Kissousa, one of the smallest villages of the Limassol countryside, with a population of less than 10, there stands today an ancient chapel dedicated to 2 soldier Saints, Sergios and Vachos.

The church is the first thing one sees upon entering the village. Its roof, which is at street level, and the foliage of the perennial terebinth tree in the courtyard both stand out. Though the date of the temple’s reconstruction is not known, it is speculated that the foundation, built with stones from the area, dates back to the Byzantine period. Visitors can tour the perimeter of the entire building, as well as the roof, which is accessible via an elevated corridor.

The village cemetery is located on the south side of the temple, shaded by the large branches of the terebinth tree. This tree, according to locals, appears to be 800+ years old, and the impressive shapes formed by its trunk and branches, complete the picturesque image. The chapel operates only rarely, though it always celebrates on 7 October to honor the 2 Saints after which it is named.

Saints Sergios and Vachos were select soldiers in the ranks of Emperor Maximian, who were executed for refusing to renounce Christianity. In 547 B.C., Justinian built a temple in their honor in Istanbul, known as ‘Little Agia Sophia.'