Europe Explored » Sights https://europeexplored.com Travel through the most beautiful places in Europe Fri, 06 Sep 2013 07:49:44 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=3.6 Exploring The Traditional Villages Of Limassol, Cyprus https://europeexplored.com/2013/04/17/exploring-the-traditional-villages-of-limassol-cyprus/ https://europeexplored.com/2013/04/17/exploring-the-traditional-villages-of-limassol-cyprus/#comments Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:52:52 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=14525 Limassol truly has a lot going for it and it seems that nearly every day there’s a new event or festival going on. You’ll love the delicious food that can be found throughout the island. The many wineries that are located in the historic villages will give you a taste of what is considered to […]

The post Exploring The Traditional Villages Of Limassol, Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
Limassol truly has a lot going for it and it seems that nearly every day there’s a new event or festival going on. You’ll love the delicious food that can be found throughout the island. The many wineries that are located in the historic villages will give you a taste of what is considered to be the best wine in the world. It’s truly a wonderful place to explore and you’ll never run out of things to do. Taking a tour of the traditional villages of Limassol will allow you to feel as if you’ve traveled back in time, so it’s great for anyone who appreciates historic qualities. Let’s talk a bit more about the various traditional villages that are located in Limassol.

Omodoes Village

Omodoes Village is a gorgeous traditional village that is beautiful in every way, shape and form. Only spending a few hours here will result in you falling in love, and it’ll certainly be hard to force yourself to leave. There are many beautiful Venetian structures that are the homes of wineries, shops and restaurants. You can easily spend several afternoons here exploring the region and taking in the wonderful sights. This are is truly wonderful and it will leave you with many superb memories.

Omodoes Village, Cyprus
Omodoes Village, Cyprus by Wknight94

Koilani Village

Koilani Village is a beautiful are that is full of history and charm. Upon entering this village, you’ll feel as though you’ve taken a trip back in time. There area is filled with many charming elements that indlude traditional wineries and many others. Another great thing about this village is the fact that there is great food on seemingly every corner. With the many beautiful views that this village has to offer, you can easily spend an entire afternoon exploring without even scratching the surface of what is available.

Alley in centre of Koilani village, Cyprus
Alley in centre of Koilani village, Cyprus by Etan J. Tal

Why You Should Visit

The homes of Limassol are absolutely gorgeous and it would make even the most stubborn visitor tempted to make the move. If you’re into fine wines, delicious dining and historic structures that are full of beauty, you’ll fall in love with the many traditional villages. It is recommended that you rent a car if you’re interested in saving a bit on costs. Any time of the year is a great time to visit these traditional villages as they are always exciting and full of activities. If you’re looking to take a trip that will leave you with many wonderful memories, I highly recommend exploring Limassol.

Author Byline:

James Bradford has worked with hotel in Limassol and has worked with several travel planners over the years.

The post Exploring The Traditional Villages Of Limassol, Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
https://europeexplored.com/2013/04/17/exploring-the-traditional-villages-of-limassol-cyprus/feed/ 0
The Tombs of the Kings – an unbeatable experience in Paphos, Cyprus https://europeexplored.com/2012/12/05/the-tombs-of-the-kings-an-unbeatable-experience-in-paphos-cyprus/ https://europeexplored.com/2012/12/05/the-tombs-of-the-kings-an-unbeatable-experience-in-paphos-cyprus/#comments Wed, 05 Dec 2012 11:37:18 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=12451 Located some mile and a quarter north of Paphos harbor in Cyprus, the Tombs of the Kings is a huge necropolis, a labyrinth of underground tombs, some of which date back to the fourth century BCE.  The whole town of Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also famous for its Roman mosaics and more […]

The post The Tombs of the Kings – an unbeatable experience in Paphos, Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
Located some mile and a quarter north of Paphos harbor in Cyprus, the Tombs of the Kings is a huge necropolis, a labyrinth of underground tombs, some of which date back to the fourth century BCE.  The whole town of Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also famous for its Roman mosaics and more ancient cult of Aphrodite.  The Tombs of the Kings do not, in fact, contain the remains of any kings – instead they are thought to be the burial sites of aristocrats and prominent officials from Paphos.  The name derives from the splendor and magnificence of the tombs, impressively carved from solid rock and featuring Doric columns and walls once adorned with frescoes.

Tombs of the Kings, Paphos, Cyprus
Tombs of the Kings, Paphos, Cyprus by Mgiganteus1

Approach to the Tombs of the Kings

At first sight during my visit there appeared to be very little of interest to be seen, just a craggy outcrop of rocks, as the tombs are almost entirely underground.  It was only as I ventured around the side of the site that the detail of how it had been used became apparent.  It was amazing to think of these tombs being chiseled by hand from the soft limestone, and then completely excavated to form rectangular rooms with about three feet of thick rock above them as a ceiling.

A subterranean adventure

Seven of the eight tombs have been excavated, and I found them to be extremely well preserved.  Their overall design is quite unusual for this part of the world since, although they date from the Hellenistic and Roman periods, their architecture tends more towards Macedonian in style.  Some of the tombs were constructed to look like dwelling places for the living rather than burial sites for the dead.  It is possible to see fragments of the original frescoes, and the atriums (central courtyards) are largely intact, so that the overall structure – complete with porticos and columns – is clearly evident.

Tombs of the Kings, Paphos, Cyprus - 2
Tombs of the Kings, Paphos, Cyprus by Romeparis

Getting around the site

To gain access to the underground tombs there are stone staircases leading downwards, although tomb number three has an additional wooden staircase that was installed during the excavation, making it easier to negotiate.  Great care is needed when descending into any of the tombs, as the stone steps are quite uneven.  The best time to visit is early morning before the heat of the day builds up, and it is sensible to wear comfortable shoes and take a hat and bottled water, as the site is quite large.  Touring the whole of it can easily take a minimum of two hours.

Tombs of the Kings, Paphos, Cyprus - 3
Tombs of the Kings, Paphos, Cyprus by Romeparis

Getting to the Tombs of the Kings

There is a good bus service from Paphos city center to the Tombs of the Kings, and it is worth taking the bus, as the neighborhood around the site is a little shabby.  Admission prices are very reasonable and, along with cheap flight deals available to Paphos International Airport, I found a vacation in Cyprus to be both affordable and rewarding.  Besides the historic Tombs of the Kings, there are many other visitor attractions, including Aphrodite’s Rock, Coral Bay, the Adonis Baths Waterfalls and Kato Paphos Archaeological Park.

The post The Tombs of the Kings – an unbeatable experience in Paphos, Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
https://europeexplored.com/2012/12/05/the-tombs-of-the-kings-an-unbeatable-experience-in-paphos-cyprus/feed/ 0
Christmas Holiday Experience in Limassol, Cyprus https://europeexplored.com/2012/11/15/christmas-holiday-experience-in-limassol-cyprus/ https://europeexplored.com/2012/11/15/christmas-holiday-experience-in-limassol-cyprus/#comments Thu, 15 Nov 2012 19:46:12 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=12175 Some say that Christmas in Limassol is not much of a fun. It depends on your description of fun, because for those who wish to enjoy a relaxing holiday season with family and friends, then Limassol still tops their list. These are some of the reasons you will be motivated to spend the holidays in […]

The post Christmas Holiday Experience in Limassol, Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
Some say that Christmas in Limassol is not much of a fun. It depends on your description of fun, because for those who wish to enjoy a relaxing holiday season with family and friends, then Limassol still tops their list. These are some of the reasons you will be motivated to spend the holidays in Limassol too!

Enough Space, Space, Space

One of the worst things to experience is to share the beauty of a majestic paradise with a crowd of people. It is hard to appreciate its splendor and elegance if you will be surrounded by chatting groups that disturbs the silence of the place, unless of course you are accustomed to these festivities.

Christmas
Photo by William Murphy

Moderate Climate

It is not too cold nor too hot in Limassol during December. Although the evening may require you to wear a wrap up, it is still more manageable especially for elders who find it frustrating to bear the pain of the cold weather. Children may miss the fun activities in the snow, but there is always the beauty of the beaches that will keep anyone entertained during the day.

Yummy Treats for Everyone

Just like other towns, Limassol has its own treats to offer to visitors who wish to share the Christmas spirit in their midst. Gala dinners are prepared with lots of dancing and music extravaganza for everyone to enjoy. The tables are spread with kourambiedes (biscuits that have been covered with icing sugar), koulouria (traditional sesame bread), and melomakarona (unique buns that are drenched in honey syrup). Roasted turkey will also be served and additional sweets celebrating this joyous occasion. In any case, the Christmas celebration remains the most grandiose festivity for the region.

Intimate Holiday Moment with Family

Cypriots typically spend their weekends with the immediate family, but when its Holiday then they all go for a big family gathering where everyone goes to the house of their parents to celebrate. As a tourist or a guest in Limassol, you will not experience this sort of tradition but reserving a room and a buffet service from a five star hotel in the region will make you feel more than at home. You will be served with the best local cuisines as you sing Christmas songs with fellow tourists who wish to enjoy some serene moments in Cyprus.

Those expecting for a busy nightlife will be a bit disappointed, but if you have reserved a Limassol car hire then you can maximize this opportunity to visit all the historical places and the magnificent natural attractions of the region.

Frederick Rice enjoys celebrating the holiday season in Cyprus to stay away from the colder temperature in Europe. He never fails to secure an elegant vehicle from Privilege Rent a Car to guarantee he will always have the perfect holiday in its midst.

The post Christmas Holiday Experience in Limassol, Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
https://europeexplored.com/2012/11/15/christmas-holiday-experience-in-limassol-cyprus/feed/ 0
Top Five Tourist Destinations in Cyprus https://europeexplored.com/2012/09/17/top-five-tourist-destinations-in-cyprus/ https://europeexplored.com/2012/09/17/top-five-tourist-destinations-in-cyprus/#comments Mon, 17 Sep 2012 20:06:31 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=11373 Cyprus is considered to be one of the top destinations for travelers who love to enjoy the sea and the sun while at the same time visit places that are rich in culture and tradition. This country is the perfect spot for those who want to just relax; after all traveling should be stress free. […]

The post Top Five Tourist Destinations in Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
Cyprus is considered to be one of the top destinations for travelers who love to enjoy the sea and the sun while at the same time visit places that are rich in culture and tradition.

This country is the perfect spot for those who want to just relax; after all traveling should be stress free. If you are planning to visit Cyprus anytime soon, here are the top five tourist destinations that you should include in your itinerary:

1. Ayia Napa

What was once a small and quiet fishing village with a few residents is now considered as one of the world’s top destinations for parties and clubbing; this is Ayia Napa. Located in the south eastern part of Cyprus, Ayia Napa takes pride of its pristine beaches such as the Nissi Beach. Tourists can enjoy the day out in the sun, take a dip in the warm water and do some water sports adventure. After a tiring day, you can head out to the club district where you can find rows of restaurants, bars and clubs. This is certainly the best way to end a perfect day.

Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Ayia Napa, Cyprus by Vitaly Lischenko (Vlish)

2. Larnaka

Larnaka is one of the country’s oldest cities. The best ways to enjoy its beauty is by walking its streets and learn about their history. So make sure to wear some comfy shoes because the tour will involve a lot of walking.

3. Paphos

Situated at the southwestern part of Cyprus, Paphos a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must see destination for travelers. In here you’ll find historical treasures and archaeological artifacts. Paphos is also very popular because it is considered to be the birthplace of the Greek goddess, Aphrodite. While you’re there, don’t forget to visit the Tomb of the Kings, the ruins of an ancient Roman Agora and the Archaeological Museum.

4. Limassol

Home of the one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean, the Port of Limassol is an important aspect in Cyprus’ trade industry. But there are other places to must see destinations in the city such as the Limassol Theater and Kourion. Travel during the month of February to witness the Carnival Festival or take part in the Wine Festival held every September.

Limassol old town, Cyprus
Limassol old town, Cyprus by Tech bro

5. Aglandjia

Aglandjia is another haven for history buffs. This small town is rich with age-old structures, churches and buildings. Enjoy the old city vibe while walking the streets or visiting one of its top destination, the Agiou Georgiou.

Cyprus has a lot to offer to all types of travelers be it a nature lover, a sun worshipper or a history geek.

About the Author: Mia is a content writer for sabahguide.com. She hopes to impart information to reads about sabah tourism.

The post Top Five Tourist Destinations in Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
https://europeexplored.com/2012/09/17/top-five-tourist-destinations-in-cyprus/feed/ 0
Top Ecotourism Spots in Larnaca, Cyprus https://europeexplored.com/2012/06/20/top-ecotourism-spots-larnaca-cyprus/ https://europeexplored.com/2012/06/20/top-ecotourism-spots-larnaca-cyprus/#comments Wed, 20 Jun 2012 10:26:09 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=8452 Larnaca is a larger city located at the South Coast of Cyprus. It is blessed with a few beautiful beaches including Mckenzie Beach, Phinikoudes Beach, Vorklini Beach, and Pyla Beach. Although these beaches have black sandy color, the quality of the water has been Blue Flag certified and guaranteed clean by the authorities. These are […]

The post Top Ecotourism Spots in Larnaca, Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
Larnaca is a larger city located at the South Coast of Cyprus. It is blessed with a few beautiful beaches including Mckenzie Beach, Phinikoudes Beach, Vorklini Beach, and Pyla Beach. Although these beaches have black sandy color, the quality of the water has been Blue Flag certified and guaranteed clean by the authorities. These are the most sought after tourist destinations of the place, but nature lovers will have a treat during their stay because of the many ecotourism spots available for them.

Larnaca sunset, Cyprus
Larnaca sunset / SBirre

The Wetlands

Larnaca have various wetlands to offer its guests including Voroklini Lake, Larnaca Salt Lake, and Sewage Work Pools.

Larnaca Salt Lake is home to 85 species of water birds with an estimated population ranging from 20,000 to 38,000. Visitors who will choose to include this in their itinerary would be fortunate to enjoy the graceful movements of 2,000 to 12,000 flamingoes categorized as Phoenicopterus ruber. It has been declared as a protected area since the year 1997 and has been a favorite spot of ecotourists all over the world.

The Sewage Pool is also a treat for any bird lover. It allows you to see ducks, gulls, and grebes playing near the water. Other bird species you will meet includes the Whiskered, the Black-Winged Stilts, Spur-Winged Lapwings, Gull-Billed, and White-winged.

The Villages

After enjoying a day watching the birds, you may wish to rest for a while at the comfort of your Larnaca beach hotel. You will need all the energy for the next travel plan we have in mind for you, village eco-tour. There are many villages to choose including Kiti Village, Tochni Village, Kato Drys Village, and Lefkara Village. You will have taste of the true Cypriot lifestyle upon setting food at the premises of their village and appreciate how they value life and nature.

As part of the Cyprus Tourism Campaign, you are given the opportunity to reside at the following villages mentioned above and live with the locales. It is an opportunity worth grabbing because it will allow you to enjoy coffee in the local shop and just enjoy the easy-going Mediterranean lifestyle of the people while appreciating the timeless Cypriot traditions.

Part of the activities you can enjoy includes daily excursion, bike tours, horse back riding, and relaxation at the beach. It would be best if you have more time to spend in Cyprus because only then can you have a full taste of its wonderful culture.

Historical places like the Hala Sultan Mosque and Neolithic settlements are always waiting to be explored by any enthusiastic tourist. You will find variety of things and places to visit in Larnaca during your stay, so it is best to schedule it accordingly. Do not miss the chance to appreciate the beauty of Larnaca. Plan your trip today and have fun in its midst.


View Top Ecotourism Spots in Larnaca, Cyprus in a larger map

The post Top Ecotourism Spots in Larnaca, Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
https://europeexplored.com/2012/06/20/top-ecotourism-spots-larnaca-cyprus/feed/ 0
Holidays in Ayia Napa, Cyprus Versus Holidays in Malia, Crete, Greece https://europeexplored.com/2012/06/15/holidays-ayia-napa-cyprus-versus-holidays-malia-crete-greece/ https://europeexplored.com/2012/06/15/holidays-ayia-napa-cyprus-versus-holidays-malia-crete-greece/#comments Fri, 15 Jun 2012 10:59:31 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=8405 It can be tough to choose which summer party destination you’ll be getting into mischief in each year, so let’s make it easy with a fair fight. Holidays in Ayia Napa and holidays in Malia are two of the most popular choices – so let’s see who comes out on top in the battle between […]

The post Holidays in Ayia Napa, Cyprus Versus Holidays in Malia, Crete, Greece appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
It can be tough to choose which summer party destination you’ll be getting into mischief in each year, so let’s make it easy with a fair fight.

Holidays in Ayia Napa and holidays in Malia are two of the most popular choices – so let’s see who comes out on top in the battle between Crete and Cyprus’s holiday hot spots.

On the beach in Malia, Crete, Greece
On the beach in Malia, Crete, Greece / The Shaun Woods

Round One – Fight: Beach Life

You’ll find loads to keep you busy on Malia’s best beach – the Pleasure beach really does live up to its name. However, with its soft, white sands, party vide and ranking as one of the best beaches in the world, round one has to go to Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa.

Round Two – Fight: Night Life

Ayia Napa is a great choice for cool kids. With DJ names to rival Ibiza playing each summer, those who love their fun bars and their cool clubs will have a ball in Ayia Napa. From party places like Bedrock and Castle Club, to cool venues like the Live Lounge, Ayia Napa has the perfect party for everyone.

Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Ayia Napa, Cyprus / Fiore Silvestro Barbato

However, Malia also packs a real punch with one of the biggest strips in the Med. House, indie, party tunes, R&B – Malia Strip has it all. While bigger doesn’t always mean better (cough), sheer variety means that round two has to go to Malia. And who says size doesn’t matter?

Round Three – It’s a Knockout!

As two amazing summer hotspots, it’s hard to declare Malia or Ayia Napa the winner. Both offer fantastic beach fun and more nighttime venues than you can shake a stick at.

There’s no option on this one but to declare it a draw. After all, either choice guarantees a great summer getaway for beach bums and party people.


View Holidays in Ayia Napa, Cyprus Versus Holidays in Malia, Crete, Greece in a larger map

The post Holidays in Ayia Napa, Cyprus Versus Holidays in Malia, Crete, Greece appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
https://europeexplored.com/2012/06/15/holidays-ayia-napa-cyprus-versus-holidays-malia-crete-greece/feed/ 0
The UNESCO World Heritage Sites Of Cyprus https://europeexplored.com/2012/05/29/the-unesco-world-heritage-sites-of-cyprus/ https://europeexplored.com/2012/05/29/the-unesco-world-heritage-sites-of-cyprus/#comments Tue, 29 May 2012 11:06:12 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=8064 The Eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus has for thousands of years been a bridge between Europe, and the Middle East. Following years of intercomunal violence between Greek, and Turkish Cypriots the Turkish Army in 1974 invaded the island creating a separate Turkish Cypriot controlled enclave in the North. Choirokoitia / Photo licensed under the Creative […]

The post The UNESCO World Heritage Sites Of Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
The Eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus has for thousands of years been a bridge between Europe, and the Middle East. Following years of intercomunal violence between Greek, and Turkish Cypriots the Turkish Army in 1974 invaded the island creating a separate Turkish Cypriot controlled enclave in the North.

Choirokoitia, Cyprus
Choirokoitia / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Klaus D. Peter, Wiehl, Germany

Cyprus has long been a popular holiday destination for Northern Europeans looking for that perfect beach holiday, and especially for the British whose country ruled the island up until independence in 1960. Cyprus is now firmly in the European Union with the Euro as its currency. With thousands of years of history Cyprus has some wonderful places to visit including  a number on the UNESCO World Heritage list which are:

1. Choirokoitia. A Neolithic settlement dating from the 7th till the 4th millennium B.C. The remains found at this site are some of the most important finds in the Easter Mediterranean and cast in light on the evolution of humans in this area. The site has only been partially excavated so it is hoped that future finds will help in the research.

2. The painted churches of the Troodos Mountains are a well preserved example of Byzantine architecture. The complex consists of 10 monuments all vividly painted with murals providing an overview of Byzantine painting in Cyprus.

3. Paphos and the area around have been inhabited since Neolithic times and was a centre for the cult Hellenic following of the fertility Goddess Aphrodite. A temple to the Goddess was erected by the Myceans (Ancient Greeks) in the 12th century B.C.  With the Mosaics of Neo Paphos some of the most beautiful in the world. The site is of exceptional worth due also to the many villas, fortresses, and tombs that have been uncovered.

These three sites in Cyprus have been deemed so important as to be put on a list giving “enhanced protection” status by the committee for the protection of cultural sites so that the destruction of the Mostar Bridge in Bosnia Herzegovina , and the shelling of the city of Dubrovnik  never occur again.  By giving the sites enhanced protection it is hoped that signature states to the Hague Convention for the protection of cultural monuments will abide by the conventions terms in the event of armed conflict.

Temple in Paphos, Cyprus
Temple in Paphos / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Fiore Silvestro Barbato

Cyprus is most visited during the Summer months, and is thought of primarily as a beach destination.  A visit to these sites though will allow you to see a little more of what Cyprus has to offer including a drive into the mountains where the air is cooler, this provides a nice break to all those days you will be spending at the beach.

Cyprus is an easy Island to fly to from anywhere in Europe, and just recently low-cost carrier Irish airline Ryanair has announced that it is making Paphos a hub, for the airline, and will be basing aircraft in Cyprus. This will create 600 jobs while offering 80 flights a week to 14 destinations throughout Europe. Yet more proof of Paphos’s appeal as a holiday destination.

We hope that you have found this information useful, and that you will visit these cultural sites on your visit the Beautiful Island of Cyprus.

This is another article from Nathan Griffiths and was written on behalf of e rentals. Visit their site to compare rates and deals available for car rentals worldwide.


View The UNESCO World Heritage Sites Of Cyprus in a larger map

The post The UNESCO World Heritage Sites Of Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
https://europeexplored.com/2012/05/29/the-unesco-world-heritage-sites-of-cyprus/feed/ 0
Larnaca – one of the major cities of Cyprus https://europeexplored.com/2012/02/14/larnaca-one-of-the-major-cities-of-cyprus/ https://europeexplored.com/2012/02/14/larnaca-one-of-the-major-cities-of-cyprus/#comments Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:34:58 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=6236 Larnaca is one of the major cities of Cyprus. It is a center of tourism, has airport and harbour. In the local bay you can walk through the picturesque promenade lined with palm trees, restaurants and pubs, which is a typical summer holiday idyll. Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Martin Belam The […]

The post Larnaca – one of the major cities of Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
Larnaca is one of the major cities of Cyprus. It is a center of tourism, has airport and harbour. In the local bay you can walk through the picturesque promenade lined with palm trees, restaurants and pubs, which is a typical summer holiday idyll.

St Lazarus Church in Larnaca, Cyprus
Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Martin Belam

The city of Larnaca is built on the site of an ancient Kition – the old city, whose ruins can be found about a kilometer of Larnaca’s city centre. Its existence is documented also in Larnaca’s archaeological museum featuring a collection of ceramics from ancient Kition, as well as in Neolithic settlement Khirokitia situated near Larnaca.

Khirokitia is one of the most important prehistoric sites in the eastern Mediterranean and is protected by an international organization UNESCO. Area around Larnaca Salt Lake is a home to thousands of flamingos in winter, but dries up in summer and only a layer of salt remains here. Beaches are darker, with fine sand, somewhere with pebbles or small stones. The sea around Larnaca boasts clean turquoise water.

Larnaca was founded between the 11th and 14th century BC. During its existence, has undergone a terrible destruction of the Persians in the Greco-Persian War.

From the top sights in Larnaca I should mention renovated tomb of Neolithic settlements Khirokitia, Roman glassware, Agios Lazaros Church, located in the southern part of the city which was built in the 10th century by Byzantine Emperor Leo VI the Wise. Today the church hosts Byzantine museum.

About 20km west of the city you can visit Greek Orthodox Stavrovouni monastery which is located at the top of Stavrovouni mountain at an altitude of 680 meters above sea level and offers spectacular views of the coastal landscape and the Troodos mountains.

And if you will go more to the south you can see a very prominent Muslim shrine called Hala Sultan Tekke or the Mosque of Umm Haram. Anyway, once you visit Larnaca with its surroundings you will certainly not be disapointed!


View Larnaca – one of the major cities of Cyprus in a larger map

The post Larnaca – one of the major cities of Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
https://europeexplored.com/2012/02/14/larnaca-one-of-the-major-cities-of-cyprus/feed/ 0
Famagusta – one of the richest and most famous cities in the world | Cyprus https://europeexplored.com/2011/04/19/famagusta-one-of-the-richest-and-most-famous-cities-in-the-world-cyprus/ https://europeexplored.com/2011/04/19/famagusta-one-of-the-richest-and-most-famous-cities-in-the-world-cyprus/#comments Mon, 18 Apr 2011 22:14:10 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=3546 Famagusta, located at north-eastern part of the island of Cyprus, was formerly one of the richest and most famous cities in the world. This can be prove for example by the fact that even William Shakespeare situated his drama Othello to this city. Tourists can visit many of impressive temples here from the 16th century, […]

The post Famagusta – one of the richest and most famous cities in the world | Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
Famagusta, located at north-eastern part of the island of Cyprus, was formerly one of the richest and most famous cities in the world. This can be prove for example by the fact that even William Shakespeare situated his drama Othello to this city. Tourists can visit many of impressive temples here from the 16th century, when the Famagusta was under Ottoman rule.

Famagusta was founded in 300 BC and its original name was Ammochostos – “burned down in the sand.” Large expansion of the city occurred in the late 13th century, when the first refugees settled here from the Holy Land. In this period, the first churches and mosques were built here in Famagusta.

Another boom came with Genoese and Venetians, and with their commercial potential. In 1571, Cyprus was controlled by the Ottomans. Today, the area of Famagusta is full of history and ancient architecture, but it also offers tourist services, beautiful beaches and romance. For sport lovers it is important to remind that Famagusta has quite a strong football team.

The city and surrounding worth a visit. Famagusta offers sights like the city walls with the most beautiful place of the Citadel, which offers a stunning view of the city.

You can also visit a mosque, Lala Mustafa Pasa Cami – former Cathedral of St. Nicholas from the late 13th century. As the whole Cyprus, also Famagusta boasts archaeological site – site of Salamis, where you can access gymnasium, baths, theaters, porticoes and the Basilica from 4th century.

Very interesting is also the district Varosha with Greek Cypriots that live here. During the occupation in 1974 lots of people leaved, and many people are still unhappy to see the abandoned houses.

To the north of Famagusta you can visit the church of the Apostle Varnavas. The church serves as the Museum of icons and the Archaeological Museum. Close to the church there is a small fishing village Bogazi located about 24 km north of Famagusta.

Akrotiri and Dhekelia are two British military bases on the island of Cyprus. Great Britain kept those two areas after the declaration of independence of Cyprus in 1960. Akrotiri is located on the southern island of Cyprus, near Limassol, Dhekelia is in the southeast of the island between the towns of Larnaca and Famagusta. Akrotiri has an area of ​​123 km². Dhekelia has an area of ​​130 km². In both areas there live more than fifteen thousand people.


View Famagusta – one of the richest and most famous cities in the world Cyprus in a larger map

The post Famagusta – one of the richest and most famous cities in the world | Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
https://europeexplored.com/2011/04/19/famagusta-one-of-the-richest-and-most-famous-cities-in-the-world-cyprus/feed/ 1
Monastery of Kykkos – one of the wealthiest and best-known monasteries in Cyprus https://europeexplored.com/2011/01/09/monastery-of-kykkos-one-of-the-wealthiest-and-best-known-monasteries-in-cyprus/ https://europeexplored.com/2011/01/09/monastery-of-kykkos-one-of-the-wealthiest-and-best-known-monasteries-in-cyprus/#comments Sun, 09 Jan 2011 14:06:54 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=2254 Kykkos monastery is the richest and most famous monastery on the island of Cyprus. It is located in the western part of the Troodos Mountains and north of the town Milikouri. The monastery was founded in around 1100 and is built in Byzantine style. The monastery includes a large surrounding land. In the monastery there […]

The post Monastery of Kykkos – one of the wealthiest and best-known monasteries in Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
Kykkos monastery is the richest and most famous monastery on the island of Cyprus. It is located in the western part of the Troodos Mountains and north of the town Milikouri. The monastery was founded in around 1100 and is built in Byzantine style. The monastery includes a large surrounding land. In the monastery there is an interesting collection of icons. Most valuable is the icon of the Virgin Mary, allegedly painted by the evangelist Apostle Luke. This icon is one of the last three surviving. Additional icons come from the Russian Orthodox churches.


View Monastery of Kykkos – one of the wealthiest and best-known monasteries in Cyprus in a larger map

The post Monastery of Kykkos – one of the wealthiest and best-known monasteries in Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

]]>
https://europeexplored.com/2011/01/09/monastery-of-kykkos-one-of-the-wealthiest-and-best-known-monasteries-in-cyprus/feed/ 0