Tuesday 24 May at Ayios Philon

The strong westerly wind is still blowing, and the sound of crashing waves below our room almost drowns out the early morning call of the francolin...but not quite! We decide to make a proper tour of the old church of Ayios Philon, which involves no cycling and hardly any walking as it is only a few paces away form where we are staying. It seems incredible to be able just to walk all over the original basilica of Bishop Philon, who converted the Karpaz to Christianity, with its mosaic floors and marble column remnants which date from the 5th Century. Nearby,and pretty much on the same site, is a 10th Century church, with some modern Greek Orthodox icons to Bishop Philon of Karpasia and candles in a recess amongst the ruined apse. We then walk to the deserted sandy beach which looks like a Cornish beach in full surf....and so the day passes.