The Cyprus Orthodox church has reiterated that it will not perform funeral rites for individuals who choose cremation after death, following an announcement about the establishment of the first crematorium in the country.

The crematorium, set to open in Paphos in the summer of 2026, marks a significant development in Cyprus’ approach to death and burial practices. It has long been a demand of the foreign expatriate population which grew increasing frustrated with the long delays in establishing a crematorium, but it is also stirring theological debates.

In Cyprus, Orthodox Christian doctrine still forbids the cremation of the dead, and this decision will impact anyone who voluntarily chooses cremation, though exceptions are made in cases where cremation occurs due to an accident, such as a fire. However, a theological source pointed out to Politis that there is no explicit mention in ecclesiastical texts prohibiting cremation, raising questions about the church’s interpretation of the doctrine.

The Cyprus Orthodox church also appears to be holding a conservative stance on the matter, providing its interpretation of Christian teachings. Notably, the church’s position contrasts with that of other Orthodox churches, including those in Bulgaria, Serbia, Romania, Russia, and Ukraine, all of which do not impose such restrictions on funeral services for the cremated.

The first crematorium in Cyprus will open ten years after the passing of legislation allowing for its construction. Located in the Ayia Varvara area of Paphos, the facility will cover an area of approximately 17,575 square metres, with a building of 1,012 square metres. The estimated cost of the project is around €4 million.

Golden Leaves Cyprus Crematorium Limited, the company behind the initiative, has stated that the crematorium will provide comprehensive cremation services, with the basic cost estimated at €900, excluding fees from funeral homes and additional services. The facility will be accessible to all funeral homes and is committed to operating with transparency and professionalism.

The crematorium will employ a modern European cremation system, proven over more than a decade and widely used across Europe and the United Kingdom. The technology is designed with environmental considerations in mind and will include low-emission systems and advanced filtration methods, such as bag filters, chemical treatment with baking soda, and activated carbon filters.

In addition to its eco-friendly design, the crematorium will feature continuous monitoring to ensure compliance with environmental standards. Sensors will measure temperature, carbon monoxide levels, oxygen, and airborne particulates, ensuring emissions remain within legal limits. The facility will also offer biodegradable urns and other sustainable options.

For the crematorium’s design, Golden Leaves has partnered with the UK’s award-winning Benchmark Architects, who specialise in crematorium designs, alongside the renowned Cypriot architectural firm Vefeades and Vefeades Architects. Together, they have created a facility that meets both modern standards and the unique needs of Cyprus.

As Cyprus embarks on this new chapter in its approach to funeral services, the opening of the crematorium is set to challenge longstanding traditions and raise important theological questions about the future of death rites in the orthodox Christian community.