Cyprus Residents Shelter at Monastery Amid Drone Crisis
Evacuated Akrotiri residents find safety and solace at the Monastery of St. George while awaiting return to their homes.
ERIMI, CYPRUS — Following the mandatory evacuation of Akrotiri after the interception of two drones by fighter jets, 25 residents sought refuge at the Holy Monastery of St. George of the Caves. Families arrived with only a few belongings, finding solace in the monastery’s peaceful grounds, where parents and children were accommodated in separate rooms.
Initially directed to the Erimi school, residents were later relocated to the monastery, as Akrotiri lacks alternative shelters. Some residents stayed with relatives or in hotels, while the most vulnerable families were given priority for safe accommodations. The monastery continues to have space to host a few additional families, offering food and shelter as they wait for the all-clear to return home.
During the visit, evacuees described their temporary life at the monastery—simple rooms, communal meals, and quiet prayer—holding onto hope for a swift return to their homes. Authorities will maintain the evacuation order until the area is declared safe.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the Greek PM urged protection of Orthodox Christians in the Middle East.
