Panagia tis Agapis

Nestled in the scenic north of the village of Vavla lies a small chapel that holds a unique distinction. It is the only temple both in Cyprus and the world that exists with the name, "Virgin of Love". This chapel, known as Panagia tis Agapis, receives many visitors every day and is a must-visit destination for those who seek peace and tranquility. Built in 1934, the chapel is located three kilometers from the village on the eastern bank of the Agios Minas river. It is a beautiful building made of stone and has a wooden roof that adds to its rustic charm. The chapel's history and the story behind its name add to its allure. Legend has it that the icon of the Virgin Mary, which is located in the church of the village of Vavla for protection, was stolen. However, the thieves left it outside the big church in the village and disappeared into the dark after ringing the bells. The residents of the village rushed to the church and found the icon. This icon, known as Our Lady of Love, is said to have miraculous qualities and dates back to the 16th century AD. The legend of Our Lady of Love is intriguing. It is said that if a girl does not receive a response from the one she loves, she goes to the little church and takes some soil from the area behind the Holy Altar. She secretly pours this soil into the coffee of the man she is interested in. If the man drinks the coffee, then everything changes. He falls in love with her and in a short time, takes her to the church as his bride. Many locals believe in the legend and visit the chapel to seek divine intervention in their love lives. To reach the chapel, visitors must follow the road to Vavla after the gas station in Choirokoitia. After leaving behind the lane for the entrance to the village, visitors must go straight for another 200 meters, where a direction sign to the right with the words "Panagia tis Agapi" can be found. Following the hint and in another 100 meters, another sign will refer visitors to the left. Following the left lane, visitors can reach the chapel in less than ten minutes. The road leading to the chapel is not for the faint of heart. It is steep in some places and narrow in others. However, the route runs parallel to the riverbed, where visitors can stop and admire the deep gorges created by the river. The bed in many places is lost under the foliage of aquatic trees and bushes, making it a scenic and peaceful journey. From the chapel, visitors can take a small road that leads to a beautiful landscape of the river. The area is serene and peaceful, and the sounds of the melodious birds and gurgling water are soothing to the soul. It is the perfect place to sit, relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. In conclusion, the Panagia tis Agapis is a unique and charming chapel that has been attracting visitors for decades. Its history, legend, and location make it a must-visit destination for those who seek peace, tranquility, and perhaps even divine intervention in their love lives. The journey to the chapel may be challenging, but it is worth it, as visitors are rewarded with the stunning beauty of nature and the peacefulness of the chapel.