Overview of the Maronite community in Cyprus

The Maronite community of Cyprus, dating back to the 7th century, comprises approximately 10,000 members. Dr. Iosif Moutiris, a resident of Paphos, emphasizes the role of 12 key churches in maintaining the community's religious and cultural continuity. Six churches are located in areas controlled by the Republic of Cyprus, including Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Kotsiatis. Other historical churches remain in villages such as Kormakitis, Asomatos, Agia Marina, and Karpasia, as well as in Kythrea, Vouno, and Kambyli. While the Maronite Church is in full communion with the Holy See, it retains distinct liturgical traditions. Notably, the community celebrates Easter on the same date as the Orthodox Church in Cyprus under special ecclesiastical permission to accommodate local social cohesion. Religious life remains a core component of the community's long-standing historical presence on the island.