Larnaca
The Historic Town and the gateway to the island and adventure

Larnaca, originally called Kition in the days of the Old Testament was a booming commercial centre in the 1700's, when consulates were established here. One of the oldest, continually-inhabited cities in the world, it abounds with historical places and sights. It is the islands third largest town with a population of 80,000.

Many travellers land in Cyprus at Larnaca's International Airport and no welcome could be sunnier: deep blue seas meet bright sandy beaches under brilliant vibrant skies. Larnaca is also home to the second largest port, on the outskirts of the town, which is a main gateway for international tourism, shipping and trade and although in its infancy, is fast becoming a growing commercial and business centre.

Larnaca's Marina is where the yachts and sailing vessels from around the globe, bob and glimmer. Along the harbour perimeter is the famous Palm Tree Promenade with international calibre boutiques, inviting cafés - offering shady resting spots and sweeping ocean views, and at the end of this delightful promenade is a striking finale - the Medieval Museum, housed in a 17th-century fort.

Angeloktisti Church, 11th century.

The 18th-century aqueduct, two wonderful museums, the Larnaca District Archaeological Museum and the Pierides Foundation Museum, both of which contain exceptional examples of Mediterranean art, ancient forts, monasteries and churches all add to the charm of this picturesque town. The old town quarter is the place to go for shoes, leather goods as well as central market selling all kinds of local produce.

Towards the centre of the town you will come to one of Larnaca's, and the islands, most cherished sites - the church of St. Lazarus. After his resurrection from the dead by Jesus, Lazarus elected to live out his "second" life as Bishop of Cyprus. He is reputedly buried in a crypt under the main altar.

Larnaca is a lively town largely due to the fun loving character of the people, therefore it hold no surprise that it hosts a number of the islands festivals. Just 4km from the centre is one of the most beautiful sites on the island, the famous Salt Lake, a natural sanctuary for thousands of migrating birds, in particular the Pink Flamingo.

Larnaca is also emerging as one of the islands main resort areas because of its long sandy beaches, the promenade and the Mackenzy area, not to mention the clear blue sky.

Heading out from Larnaca toward Limassol (next section), stop by the enchanting village of Lefkara.

Doubtless you, like Leonardo Da Vinci five centuries before, will be seduced by Lefkara's exquisite handmade lace...



Limassol
A celebration of beaches, fortresses and festivals

The magnificent Theatre at Kourion, 2nd century B.C.

During the Crusades, Richard the Lion-Heart, leader of the Third Crusade, landed in Limassol (Lemesos), not incidentally to free a noblewoman held captive by the Byzantine sovereign.

The noblewoman, His betrothed, Berengaria of Navarre. In Limassol they married, touching off the most extravagant party the island had ever seen.

Grape Harvest is a joyful but hardworking time

Today, the tradition of celebration and hospitality continues in this vibrant seaside town. In February before Lent, masked revellers invade the street with music, parades, and dancing for Carnival. In September, the Wine Festival explodes in the town for a week. And every night people in restaurants, cafés, and nightclubs celebrate events momentous and trivial, from a soccer win to a sudden romance to yet another stunning sunset at day's end.

Explore Limassol Castle, which contains the Cyprus Medieval Museum, or the Folk Art Museum, which is housed in an old mansion.

Walk on ten miles of beautiful beaches, deservedly known as the Cypriot Riviera. Stroll in the sea promenade or visit the lush Municipal Gardens. On the coastal road to the east, just after the luxurious hotels, you will find Amathus, one of the ancient city kingdoms of Cyprus. See the ruins and take a dip near the site of an ancient port. At 14 km west of Limassol lies Kolossi Castle, a medieval fortress whose walls contain not only an imposing tower and surrounding living quarters but also an ancient sugar factory.

Just 19 km west of town, visit the Kourion archaeological site, an ancient city-kingdom, where you can take in a play or concert at the ancient Greco-Roman Theatre, overlooking the blue Mediterranean. And, a bit further on, explore a treasure trove of Greek and Roman sites, such as the Sanctuary of Apollo

The ancient site of Amathous

Paphos
Home to Aphrodite, Adonis, Dionysus and lucky mortals

Aphrodite's Rock

Enter another world, where idols and temples, graves and goddesses make up the fabric of everyday life. Paphos is where Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, is said to have risen from the waves that crash on its shores.

Petra tou Romiou, or Aphrodite's Rock, is a massive chunk of stone that marks the spot. Her birthplace was a place of pilgrimage for the entire Hellenic world. Aphrodite's presence seems to have drawn other divinities and notable mortals as well. Excavations have unearthed the spectacular 3rd -5th century-mosaics of the Houses of Dionysus, Orpheus, and Aion, and the Villa of Theseus - buried for sixteen centuries and yet remarkably intact. Their grace of line and subtlety of colour will surely inspire elevated feelings in those who see them. Also in this region is the Odeon Theatre, a stone structure still used as it was in ancient times for outdoor concerts, plays, and games. Small wonder then that the whole town of Paphos is included in the official UNESCO list of cultural and natural treasures of world heritage.

Past Polis and Latchi, the Baths of Aphrodite provided the ancients with a dramatic setting for outdoor bathing. The Fontana Amorosa, or fountain of love, still bubbles forth nearby. Is it simply water... or Aphrodite's fabled love potion?

Later periods of history have also left their traces. The Tombs of the Kings, in Kato Paphos, is a monumental honeycomb structure carved into sheer rock whose vaults held the tombs of Ptolemy period nobles.

Nearby, the stone pillar where St. Paul, according to tradition, was bound and beaten for preaching Christianity thrusts heavenward. The Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery was founded in the 12th century A.D. and is dedicated to “Our Lady of the Golden Pomegranate.” The neighbouring monastery of Agios Neofytos contains some of the world’s finest Byzantine frescoes and icons as well as an interesting Byzantine museum.

Archaeological discoveries in the Paphos region are continual, making it a highlight for those tracing civilization’s roots in Cyprus. For a glimpse of the artifacts and masterworks found in the area, visit the District Archeological Museum.

Mosaic in Paphos

Returning to the 20th century, enjoy a cool drink, a steaming Cypriot coffee, or a meal of just-caught seafood in one of the tavernas that dot the scenic harbourside in the town of Paphos. Hotels for every taste and budget can be found in town and the surrounding area.

Tomb of the Kings

Nicosia
The thousand year old capital in the heart of the country

The Famagusta Gate

The Famagusta Gate was designed to protect the ancient city. Today it beckons people in.

During the Venetian expansion eastward in the 1500’s, Nicosia (Lefkosia) was fortified with imposing stone walls and massive gates. The famous Famagusta Gate still stands today, proudly protecting the still-ancient town within from the modern city without.

Through the Gate lies Laiki Geitonia, a pedestrian area within the walled city, east of Plateia Eleftherias. Charming winding alleys with traditional houses, shops, restaurants and galleries all lovingly restored as typical examples of Cypriot urban architecture of a bygone era. Wind your way through narrow stone streets where crimson flowers cascade from window pots and the aroma of traditional baking wafts through open doorways. Explore jewellery and handicraft shops, dine in charming tavernas, and marvel at churches centuries old.

Laiki Geitonia

Those engrossed in history and art will make their way directly to the Cyprus Museum, which holds the island’s priceless treasures from the first stirrings of the Neolithic Age through the Roman period. At the Byzantine Museum, encounter a dazzling collection of early-Christian icons from the

Mediterranean’s Golden Age. The State Collection of Contemporary Art takes a newer perspective, focusing on Cyprus’ modern artists, some of whom have gained note on the international market.

Come full circle in time and visit the Cyprus Handicraft Centre workshops, where traditional arts are practiced today much the same way they were in ages past. Relax and enjoy a splendid Cypriot meal, accented by one of the island’s famous wines.

Later, the night life beckons near Famagusta Gate, giving expression to the Cypriots’ legendary spirit of celebration.

Unique icons, some 1,000 years old, adorn the Byzantine Museum in Nicosia.

Protaras/ Paralmini/ Ayia Napa
The garden basket with the golden beaches

Protaras has an excellent road connection with all main towns and is less than 1 hours drive from Larnaca International Airport. It’s a land where people from all walks of life gravitate to, a land where trust and security make people feel at home.


The Ammochostas region comprises Protaras, Paralimni and Agia Napa. This region has many unique resort which offer modern conveniences, complete with ocean views. In this region you will find three wonderful beaches, Nissi Beach, Makronissos Beach in Agia Napa and Fig Tree Bay in Paralimni. With its superb beaches and multi-star hotels, the Ammochostos region draws discerning sun seekers from all over the globe.

This part of the island remains the agricultural heart of Cyprus, where traditional windmills stand with modern aqueducts to irrigate the fertile red soil.

Agia Napa, once a small fishing village, is as lively a resort as any in the Mediterranean. But historic sites such as a 16th-century Venetian monastery lend character to a town that’s best known for its colourful shops, tavernas and discos. Another focal point is the crescent harbour, crowded with bright fishing boats. The day’s catch is tonight’s dinner at the popular restaurants nearby.

Life in this south-eastern corner of Cyprus revolves around the sea, with water sports of all kinds readily available - from scuba diving to water-skiing to paragliding.

Explore the rugged coast toward Cape Greko, with its string of calm sandy coves, and stay for the indescribably beautiful sunset. Or head north, toward the basket-making community of Liopetri, stopping at Sotira to take in the pretty village churches that date to the 15th and 16th centuries.

Cape Greco

East to Protaras, more glorious beaches spread out under the sun, while just inland the white-washed town of Paralimni boasts open-air tavernas known for their succulent grilled fish. Only a few miles from the most contemporary of resort scenes yet you’ll feel eons away.

Protaras is one of the most lovely seaside resorts in Cyprus. The colourful landscapes and natural environment combined with sandy beaches and hilly slopes are covered with lush natural greenery all year round. Geographically, it lies in an area which is well protected from the wind and consequently the sea is calm and crystal clear. Temperate winters and warm summers are ideal for comfortable year round living. During the past fifteen years, Protaras has experienced unprecedented growth and development. Nevertheless, the natural environment has been wonderfully preserved under strict control of the government to ensure that the ecological charm and character of the area is not altered. In accordance with this, modern facilities and comforts abound which today make it one of most attractive tourist destinations for foreigners and locals alike.

Luxury hotels, restaurants, tavernas, discoteques and playgrounds blend with green fauna and red earth. Windmills vegetable gardens and the breathtaking view of Afios Elias Church are just a few of the characteristics that set Protaras apart from other places.