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Information on Cyprus

The remarkable island of Cyprus is steeped in history and boasts a rich cultural heritage. Travellers are enticed here by the overwhelming number of ancient monuments and archaeological sites, including churches and monasteries. There is of course sunshine too, oodles of it and great beaches on which to soak it all up.

Nicosia has been the capital of Cyprus since the 12th century and is located at the centre of the Messaoria Plain. The old city still features walls built by the Venetians, and has many ancient shops. If you have time, also visit the Cyprus Archaeological Museum, the Folk Art Museum and St Johns Cathedral. Today it is divided by the Turkish and Cypriot halves of the island.

The second largest town on the island and the main port, Limassol is the centre of the wine industry in Cyprus, with vineyards on the slopes of the nearby Troodos Mountains. Also located here is Curium, one of the most famous Roman archaeological sites in Cyprus. Amathus, 11kms east of Limassol, was once the capital of a city-kingdom, but is now in ruins. However, the Acropolis, Necropolis and the remains of an early Christian basilica can still be seen. Beaches, resorts and small fishing villages can also be found nearby.

A popular destination is Paphos, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upper Paphos boasts a magnificent view of the coastline, while the harbour of Lower Paphos is surrounded by tavernas best known for superb fish dishes. Archaeology and history buffs will want to see the House of Dionysus, a Roman villa housing fine mosaics, and the nearby Villa of Theseus.

Once a small, quiet town, Larnaca has recently seen a huge growth. The seafront is a charming place to stroll and look at the elegant yachts in the harbour, or have a drink in one of the many cafés and tavernas lining the area. Major attractions include the Agia Faneromeni Church, constructed over a rock cave, and the Larnaca Fort. Also worth seeing is the Archaeological District Museum. The ancient city of Kition is nearby.

The town of Ammochostos (Famagusta) is in the zone occupied by the Turkish inhabitant of Cyprus, but much of what was once Ammochostos District lies across the divide. To the southeast is Ayia Napa, a major resort with golden sandy beaches. Alternatively, Kakopetria, on the northeastern slopes of Mount Olympus, is a charming village which can be used as a base from which to explore the surrounding forested mountains, deep gorges and valleys. The Akamas Peninsula, on the west coast, is one of the last wild and unspoilt places on the coast.

Cyprus Travel Partners & Resources

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