Cyprus what to visit. The most beautiful places in Cyprus

Looking for what sights to visit in Cyprus?

Are you interested in the Republic of Cyprus and the history of the island? Through the intersection of Greek and Turkish cultures, the mingling of languages ​​and religions that divide the island into different worlds, you will feel that Cyprus is a bi-cultural landscape tucked away in the Mediterranean.

Focusing on the history of the island is inevitable and it is the desire of any traveler, although the island today impresses with its beach-club repertoire and is rapidly progressing in this direction. In this article we will talk about the sights of Cyprus that are worth seeing for everyone, it remains only to choose the most suitable direction and the best personal guide!

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Attractions of Cyprus on the map

Cyprus attractions worth seeing

Well known all over the world, they are visited daily by tens of hundreds of tourists. Ancient settlements and abandoned cities, Orthodox monasteries, temples and ancient monuments - all this is especially interesting for those who love intense travel while relaxing on the island.

Located in the southeastern region of Cyprus, Ayia Napa is well known for being the world's second largest nightlife area. The best resorts in Cyprus and attractions of this kind are there! The area is blessed with pristine beaches (the most popular of them is Nissi Beach) and warm sea water - the perfect solution for a good appetite, swimming, golden tan and sports fun on the water. But there are also such places as the "Country House" on the monastery square, it will tell you about the way of life of the ancient Cypriots.

In Ayia Napa you will get unforgettable emotions and take many good photos. And then there is the monastery, the cape and the Cavo Greco State Forest Park, where rare plants are found, for example, 35 varieties of orchids, irises and crocuses. In ancient times, the temple of Aphrodite was located on the territory of Capo Greco. One of the popular hiking trails leads to it.

Paphos is considered the cultural capital of the island of Cyprus, largely due to its wealth of cultural and architectural monuments. People who are interested in Cyprus history attractions should go there.

Includes those dated to the 3rd century AD. royal tombs (hundreds of burials of local aristocrats), legendary baths with waterfalls of the mythical Adonis, Church of St. George (with its Russian-language services), the Museum of St. George (dedicated to the history of the liberation of the island), the Orthodox monastery of St. Apostle Andreas, the Neophyte monastery of Agios and the archaeological park of Kato, the area of ​​Paleo Paphos with the ruins of ancient buildings, the Church of the Holy Unmercenaries ... and these are just some of them.

Jolly and holy Limassol is the second largest city in Cyprus, the port of Limassol is the main Cypriot transport hub and a key player in the Mediterranean trade industry. Economic developments have influenced culture and tourism, contributing to their rapid development.

The best sights of Cyprus, reviews of many tourists, are associated with Limassol. In the area there is a mountain village of Omodos, popular with tourists, where you will get acquainted with the life of medieval Cypriots and in which modern agro-tourism flourishes. It is also famous for the monastery of St. Cross, in the church of which the relics of several saints are kept.

The city itself is still rivaled by adjacent archaeological sites, such as the ruins of a 12th century B.C. the city of Kourion with its earthquake-surviving public Roman baths, an open-air theater built in the 2nd century BC. BC, the ancient city of Amathus, allegedly built by the sons of Hercules, and an art gallery...

However, modernity plays a key role today - the Cyprus University of Technology opened its doors in 2007 and attracts waves of international students to the island. And young people, in addition to science, are very interested in what to see in Cyprus from the sights.

At the same time, 2 festivals are held in Limassol - Carnival in February-March and a wine festival in September. There is also a monastery of St. Nicholas, known in the world as a "cat shelter".

The Archaeological Museum, the salt lake and the eucalyptus grove near the beach are traditional points of excursion routes. And, of course, the icon-painting workshop in the city center, as well as the famous monastery of the Holy Life-Giving Cross, the cathedral and the Limassol fortress...

Sights of Cyprus photo

If you want to take a photo of the sights in Cyprus, go to the city of Larnaca, it is one of the oldest cities on the island. You personally explore the local winding roads on foot and this is one of the best outdoor activities.

Larnaca's coastal stretch of promenade provides scenic and romantic walks in the evening. The coastline also has a section called the Zenobia Wreck, which was ranked among the ten worst shipwrecks in the world in 2003.

This is a great place to get away from the cityscapes. If you are already fed up with the official Cyprus and the sights of an organized tour, you used the services of a private guide, then take a walk in Larnaca on your own! You can get to Larnaca by public transport or just rent a car in Cyprus.

There you are expected:

  • Kamares Aqueduct - remains of an 18th century aqueduct;
  • District Museum of the Middle Ages;
  • Camel farm;
  • The villages of Mazotos, Lefkara, where you can buy the finest handmade lace, silver, Cypriot jam, olive oil soap and handmade souvenirs;
  • The active Monastery of St. George in Trulli Mavrovruni;
  • Ancient settlement of Khirokitia;
  • Submarine "Sadko";
  • Monastery of Stavrovouni, which keeps a part of the cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified, and a nail from it;
  • Archaeological Museum;
  • Aliki salt lake, from which salt is no longer mined, but up to 12 thousand migratory birds winter there - these are pink flamingos, white herons and black swans ...

Platres - for picnic lovers

Nestled against the Troodos Mountains, Platres is a distraction from sun-drenched beaches and crowded waterfronts. Scenic trails under the canopy of dense pine forests and streams that line the hotels, Platres is the best place for hiking and picnics.

Few people know that in the Troodos mountains, snow lies from December to the end of April, and the maximum snowfall for skiing usually falls in January. So northern Cyprus gives attractions in winter.

Contact a travel agency and you will find out how the sights of Turkish Cyprus differ from Greek ones. At your service - website site, many guides and guides, all the sights of Cyprus and descriptions ...

Have a nice holiday!

Cyprus is the most popular destination for Russian tourists. The island is rich in natural attractions, beautiful beaches and historical monuments. At the same time, there are many entertainment centers in Cyprus, which makes the rest varied and fun. Cyprus is suitable for people of all ages. Both young and older travelers will appreciate comfortable hotels, interesting excursions and a lot of entertainment. Below we have presented the most interesting and significant sights of Cyprus, which are a must-see.

What to see in Cyprus: TOP-11

This largest underground necropolis is one of the best attractions in Paphos. Located 2 km from the harbor. Despite its name, the necropolis does not contain the remains of the kings. It got its name solely because of its external beauty and internal wealth. The construction of the tombs was carried out in 300-200 BC. The tombs are decorated with beautiful columns, wall frescoes, etc. Today, almost everything in the tombs has been looted, but they still attract the interest of many tourists, keeping secrets and mysteries.

Without a doubt, one of the main attractions of Cyprus for tourists is the beautiful Archbishop's Palace in the city of Nicosia. The construction of the building was carried out from 1956 to 1960. Next to it you can also see the Old Archbishop's Palace, which was built in 1730. Today the palace is not available for a full visit. However, on its territory there are a number of interesting places that will be interesting for tourists to see: the Library, the Museum of Folk Art, etc. The museums located next to the palace present numerous finds of archaeologists, ancient icons, books and much more. Every history buff must visit this place in Cyprus!

3. Kolossi Castle

This unique and ancient landmark of Limassol is an exceptional destination in Cyprus for travelers and tourists. It is located 10 km west of the city. The first castle here was built in the 13th century. However, in 1454 it was completely rebuilt. The central tower of the castle has three floors and is 22 meters high. On its roof there is an observation deck from which visitors can explore the surroundings in detail. Not far from the castle is the Church of St. Eustathius - another interesting place to see.

4. Bath of Aphrodite

The Baths of Aphrodite is a truly unique natural creation and one of the most romantic places in Cyprus. It is located 48 km north of Paphos. The bath is a small body of water surrounded by vegetation. The bath is covered by a limestone rock, and an old fig tree grows on its shore. Having bathed in this pond, you will provide yourself with a charge of vivacity and keep your beauty for many years. If there is no desire to swim, then you should just watch the beauty of this natural creation.

Ayia Napa Monastery is located 1 km from the coast of the famous resort of the same name. There are several legends of its construction, but we will not dwell on them. This building is truly unique and interesting for tourists, because it has survived to this day without a single restructuring and name change. During the history of its existence, the monastery was both female and male. The restoration of the monastery took place in 1950. Today it is not only a beautiful architectural landmark of Cyprus, but also a museum, but sometimes social events are held here. Inside the monastery, you can also visit the church.

6. Amathus

Amathus is an ancient city located on the southern coast of the island, 38 km west of Larnaca. For 16 centuries it was the largest commercial and cultural center of Cyprus. The city consisted of 3 parts and had its own port. At the end of the 12th century, Richard the Lionheart captured the area, after which Amathus was completely destroyed. But to this day, numerous burials, columns and ruins have survived, which attract visitors to Cyprus.

An old village located a few kilometers east of Paphos. The village has a beautiful appearance and is of interest to travelers from all over the world. The central tourist attraction of the village is the church of St. Paraskeva. Also, tourists can visit the Museum of Folk Art and a confectionery shop located on the main street of the village. The Church of St. Paraskeva is a unique and beautiful building. The church was built by Christians. It has the most beautiful wall paintings dating back to the times of iconoclasm. Today, such monuments are a rarity. The village of Yeroskipos will definitely please you with its unique architecture and a lot of interesting monuments.

Limassol Castle is a great place to visit among the architectural sights of Cyprus. This is an Ottoman fort built in the 14th century to protect the harbor of Limassol. Built in the style of Ottoman architecture. Today this castle acts as a museum of the Middle Ages. The museum has many exhibits for visitors dating from the 4th to the 17th centuries. Stone tombstones of the 14th century are presented in the central hall and on the ground floor. On the top floor you can see: ancient weapons, armor, collections of ancient coins and decorative items made of silver, gold and ceramics.

9. Church of the Prophet Elijah in Protaras

This church is deservedly one of the tourist hotspots in Cyprus. It is located at an altitude of 115 m above sea level. Every year, Orthodox believers hold services in it and arrange a fair. The church is built of sandstone and has an attractive classic medieval look. Inside, visitors can see a wooden altar and beautiful wall paintings. The area around the church is very well maintained, so a walk through it will not be superfluous. When you visit this place, you will feel real peace.

10. Stavrovouni Monastery

In my opinion, visiting Stavrovouni Monastery in Cyprus is a must. It was erected in 327, in the Larnaca region, on a high hill. During its history, the monastery was rebuilt and restored several times. Today, the main value of this building is a cypress cross containing a particle of the Life-Giving Cross. Among the Orthodox residents of Cyprus and tourists, this is one of the most popular destinations, because in addition to visiting the sight itself, here you can enjoy beautiful views.

11. Oceanarium in Protaras

Vacationers with children will also find interesting attractions in Cyprus, among them the oceanarium in Protaras. Here you can see over 1000 marine life. They live in huge aquariums, the conditions in which are very similar to those of the sea. A visit to this place will be incredibly interesting for both adults and children.

In addition to getting to know the marine life, in the aquarium you can visit the terrarium with crocodiles and the penguinarium, which is home to real polar penguins. Also on site there is a tropical garden with rare plants and beautiful flowers. Spending 1 day visiting this unique place is a great decision, because such a variety of the underwater world can be seen extremely rarely.

As you can see, not only the beaches, the sea and the sun, but also many architectural and natural sights of Cyprus make it the most popular resort among tourists from the CIS countries. This hospitable island contains many mysteries and secrets, and that is why history lovers are so willing to visit it. In Cyprus, you can get acquainted with the culture of different eras. And if history does not interest you, then you can easily find suitable entertainment and have a good time.

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Coast of Cyprus

This Mediterranean island is traditionally associated with a beach holiday. And quite deservedly: a wonderful mild climate, 330 sunny days a year, the purest sea water, white sand, excellent service attract crowds of tourists every year. But there are plenty of other interesting places to visit on the island. These are the natural attractions of Cyprus, and historical monuments of the ancient era, buildings and structures of ancient architecture, and even a ski resort.

Politically, the island is divided into two parts. The first is the Republic of Cyprus itself (however, officially occupying the entire territory of the island, not counting the two British military bases, which have a special status), a member of the European Union, inhabited by ethnic Greeks who profess Orthodox Christianity. The second is the unrecognized Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which was formed after the Turkish invasion in 1974. Inhabited by ethnic Turks who profess Islam. Even the capital, Nicosia, is divided between these states.

Such ethnic and religious diversity has existed on the island for many centuries, as a result of which among the cultural and architectural monuments there are medieval temples, mosques and other monuments of both religions.

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Archaeological Park of Kato Paphos

Archaeological Park of Kato Paphos

This is an open-air museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most famous and valuable archaeological finds in the world.

One day, a local farmer, after plowing his field, found a mosaic fragment. Archaeologists from all over the world immediately rushed here and discovered a whole city with squares, temples, a market, a theater and a lighthouse. Excavations have been ongoing since the 1960s and still are, although the site is open to tourists.

The most valuable part of the archaeological park are the ancient Greek villas of the II-V centuries AD. More precisely, not even the villas themselves, but the mosaic floors, which are scenes from ancient Greek mythology, some are perfectly preserved, others have been carefully restored from found pieces.

The most famous of the buildings is the Villa of Dionysus, so named because most of the mosaics were dedicated to this ancient Greek god. The excavations of the city began with it. It was built in the 2nd century AD. and was destroyed by an earthquake in the 4th century AD. Its area was about 2 thousand sq.m., the building consisted of 40 rooms, 15 of which were with mosaic floors. Everything shows that the owner of the villa was very wealthy - in addition to the impressive area and rich decoration, the house had a swimming pool, water supply and sewerage.

Another well-known building is the house of the proconsul of Paphos, called the villa of Theseus. It was here that a large mosaic was found depicting Theseus, preparing to start a duel with the Minotaur, and the beautiful Ariadne.

You will find many more unique mosaic panels depicting scenes from myths in this museum. We advise you to devote at least two to three hours to this attraction.

  • The address: Paphos Archaeological Park, Kato Paphos
  • How to get there: by buses No. 603, 610, 611, 612, 615, 618, 631 to the Kato Paphos stop
  • Working hours:
  • Ticket price: 4.5 euros.

Tombs of the Kings in Paphos

Tombs of the kings

They are an underground cemetery carved into the rock. Some burials date back to the 9th century BC, and the newest ones date back to the 3rd century AD. e. The most active study of the site by archaeologists took place in the 1970s-1980s, but, unfortunately, all the more or less valuable tombs had been looted by that time. Only two tombs were found intact and intact. Nevertheless, the place is of unique historical and architectural value, because many household items, ancient amphorae were found here. The underground halls are decorated with unique paintings, frescoes, coats of arms of ancient families.

Some underground "graves" are truly huge, they look like large villas in which the dead lived during their lifetime - with halls, columns, long corridors. Others look like a small cave - probably, the owner of such a grave was not rich during his lifetime. Apparently, it was believed that the more pompously decorate the tomb, the more luxurious a person will live in the afterlife.

Despite the name of this landmark of Cyprus, the kings were not buried here, but only representatives of the aristocracy and high officials. Scientists claim that the first Christians hid from persecution and extermination during the reign of the Roman emperor Nero in one of the tombs. There they left wall paintings and household items.

  • Attraction address: Coastal Broadwalk in the resort of Paphos
  • How to get there: No. 615 or on foot
  • Working hours: daily, September 16 - April 14 from 8.30 to 17.00, April 15 - September 15 from 8.30 to 19.30.
  • Ticket price: 2.50 euros.

Petra tou Rommiou, or Aphrodite's Rock

Rock of Aphrodite

The ancient Greek goddess of love can rightfully be considered a symbol of Cyprus; there are a lot of beautiful places marked with her name. Aphrodite's Rock is located between Paphos and Limassol. This is one of the visiting cards of the island, the beach, where, according to legend, a beautiful goddess was born from sea foam.

Many beliefs are associated with this place: swim naked at exactly midnight, and you will be forever young, swim around the rock three times counterclockwise, and you will know eternal love, and others like that. We can’t guarantee that all this will come true, but it’s definitely worth visiting this attraction: there are unusually beautiful sunsets, clean air, beautiful light and views for photo shoots.

As for swimming, the beach itself is very clean, but the water is colder than on other nearby beaches due to cold currents, the entrance to the sea is rocky, there are strong waves. Probably this is so that eternal youth is not so easy to get.

  • The address: Petra tou Romiou is located on the coast along the main road from Paphos to Limassol
  • How to get there: by bus on the B6 highway about 15 kilometers east of Paphos. Then follow the signs.

Kykkos Monastery

Kykkos Monastery

The male Orthodox monastery, founded in the 11th century, is one of the main Orthodox shrines in Cyprus. It is located in the Troodos mountains, at an altitude of about 1340 meters. The monastery is decorated with ancient frescoes and mosaics depicting scenes from the Bible. But the most valuable asset of the monastery, which attracts pilgrims from all over the world, is the icon of the Virgin Mary, allegedly painted by the Apostle Luke during her lifetime, and transferred to Cyprus from Constantinople by the Byzantine Emperor Alexios Komnenos. The details of the transfer of the icon are overgrown with myths and legends, which the guides will gladly tell you.

Since 1795, the face of the icon has been covered with a silver frame, and you cannot see it, but you can touch it, which is what believers who come here do.

The monastery has a museum with works of Christian art - icons, embroideries, paintings and antiques.

  • How to get there: by bus with an organized tour or by rental car from Paphos (60 km), Limassol (70 km) or Nicosia (90 km).
  • Working hours: from November to May from 10.00 to 16.00, from June to October from 10.00 to 18.00
  • Ticket price: the monastery is free, the entrance to the museum is 5 euros.

Temple of Saint Lazarus in Larnaca

Church of Saint Lazarus

The church was built in the 9th-10th century over the tomb of Saint Lazarus and is one of the three Byzantine churches preserved on the island.

Lazarus, according to legend, was resurrected by Jesus Christ and lived for another 30 years, spreading the teachings of Christ in every possible way. He is the patron saint of the city of Larnaca. When the relics of Lazarus were found, they were taken to Constantinople, but during one of the reconstructions of the temple, remains were found that were recognized as part of the relics of the saint, and have since been kept in the temple.

The pride of the church is the iconostasis of 120 icons, decorated with wood carvings and gilding, as well as Byzantine frescoes, presumably of the 10th century.

  • Attraction address: Larnaca, Plateia Agiou Lazarou
  • How to get there: by buses No. 432, 438, 443 to the stop Fanerwmenis Avenue
  • Working hours: daily, from April to August from 8.00 to 18.30, from September to March from 8.00 to 17.00
  • Ticket price: for free.

Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque in Larnaca

Mosque Hala Sultan Tekke

It is considered the fourth most important Muslim shrine in the world, after the mosques in Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem. According to legend, it was built in honor of a noble Muslim woman from the time of the Prophet Muhammad - Umm Haram. Who this woman was to the prophet - opinions are divided: either by the foster mother, or by an aunt, or by the wife of his closest follower. One thing is clear - she was very influential.

According to legend, an accident happened at the site of the construction of the future mosque - Umm Haram fell from her horse and fell to her death. The sarcophagus with the remains of a woman is in the temple. Also, other noble Muslims were buried here.

Unfortunately, after the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, the mosque was no longer used for its intended purpose. Services are now held only twice a year, on the days of the great Muslim holidays Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Adha.

The temple was built in a very beautiful place, surrounded by a picturesque garden with fountains, next to the largest salt lake in Cyprus. In winter, colonies of pink flamingos can be observed on the lake. Also, a Bronze Age settlement was found to the east of the shrine, excavations are still ongoing.

  • The address: Cyprus, Tekke Road
  • How to get there: by car or from Larnaca (3 km from the city)
  • Working hours: Saturday-Thursday from 8:00 to 18:00, Friday from 8:30 to 18:00, break from 13:00 to 15:00.
  • Ticket price: for free.

Cape Greco, or Cavo Greco

Cavo Greco

It is located in the eastern part of Cyprus, next to it is also the national park of Cavo Greco. The coast here is rocky, all cut up by caves and grottoes, the views are simply amazing, a real find for photographers. There is no equipped beach here, but many scuba dive, as the water here is the cleanest, turquoise color. You can watch turtles and other marine life. There are also conditions for diving and horseback riding.

In the national park, which is adjacent to the cape, hiking and cycling routes, observation platforms, and picnic areas are equipped. One of the routes leads to the ruins of the Temple of Aphrodite. The flora of the park is very rich, here you can see many types of orchids, junipers, ficuses, wild olives, irises. It also houses many species of beautiful birds.

  • The address: Cape Greco, Cyprus
  • How to get there: bus number 101 from Ayia Napa, number 102 from Protaras.

Old city in Nicosia

Nicosia old town

Once Nicosia was an ancient Greek city-state, and for protection from enemies it was surrounded by a fortress wall. The wall has survived to this day, it surrounds the old quarters of the city, and behind it are the sleeping areas of the capital, of little interest to tourists. The streets in the old city are narrow, picturesque and colorful, the buildings are architecturally very colorful, because during its existence the city has been under the rule of the Greeks, the Turks, the Byzantines, the Venetians, the British. Often, Gothic temples turned into mosques and vice versa, religious buildings turned into domestic, domestic - into cult ... Now in the old city there are many souvenir shops, restaurants, drinking establishments and quarters are flooded with tourists.

In 1974, after the Turkish invasion, Cyprus was divided into two parts, and the capital Nicosia did not escape this. Now it is the capital of both the Republic of Cyprus and the unrecognized state of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Therefore, just in the middle of the Old City there is a buffer zone with customs. The territories adjacent to the buffer zone are practically uninhabited, people left their homes and never returned. There are cars, almost new, that have not been run for over forty years, and doors that have grown into the ground, closed shops and painted walls.

The part of the Old City of Nicosia, which has departed from the TRNC, is very similar to Turkey. The streets have been turned into a market where they sell everything their heart desires. Unless there are more minarets here.

Wandering through the Old Town of Nicosia is definitely worth it, where else can you see the last divided capital in Europe?

  • Attraction address: Nicosia, Old City
  • How to get there: by car or bus from Larnaca, Limassol, Paphos. The fare is from 4 to 7 euros.

Waterworld Ayia Napa

Aquapark in Ayia Napa

This is the largest and most popular water park in Cyprus. All attractions, water slides and recreation areas are stylized as the myths of Ancient Greece and decorated with columns, statues, amphitheaters and fountains in antique style. Here, for example, are the names of several attractions: the Trojan Horse, the Labyrinth of the Minotaur, the Feat of Hercules, the Fall of Icarus, the Odyssey River.

It is no exaggeration to spend a whole day at Waterworld Water Park, especially if you come with children. You can’t pull them by the ears from the water slides. And adults can visit spa treatments, lie down in a sun lounger by the pool or try extreme rides. On the territory of the park there are cafes and kiosks with street food, ice cream, non-alcoholic cocktails. Security here is also organized at the highest level, there are instructors and lifeguards. The main thing is to stock up on sunscreen ahead of time so as not to get burned.

  • The address: Ayia Napa, Ayia Thekla Road, 18
  • How to get there: buses 102 and 711 to Waterworld stop
  • Attraction opening hours: daily from 10 to 18.
  • Ticket price: adults 38 euros, children from 3 to 12 years old - 24 euros, up to 3 years old - free of charge.

Fig Tree Bay Beach in Protaras

Beach at Fig Tree Bay

This beach, located in the southern part of Cyprus, is rightfully considered one of the best on the island. Not only tourists, but also local residents relax here, which is very significant. For tourists with children, there is no better place to find - thanks to the gentle descent into the sea and the absence of stones under the water, children will quickly and safely learn to swim. There are no jellyfish and algae here either, so the kids can splash in the water at least all day long.

A little further from the coast there is a small island, it serves as a natural breakwater, so there are never big waves. Light yellow sand, clear water, convenient beach infrastructure - everything is conducive to a pleasant family vacation. But cheerful youth will also have something to do - there are attractions on the beach, the opportunity to do water sports, scuba diving, paragliding, sail on a boat or boat, dance in the club in the evening.

Not far from the beach, there is a beautiful promenade, it is especially good to walk along it in the spring, when trees and flower beds are in bloom.

Also in Protaras, every evening from May to September, a show of dancing fountains is arranged. Musical accompaniment, visual effects and lighting of dancing and iridescent water streams make the spectacle truly unique.

  • Attraction address: Protaras, Fig Tree Bay
  • Entry price: for free.

It is very easy to get away from everyday troubles. You just need to pack your suitcase, buy a ticket and enjoy. The sea, the sun and the sights of Cyprus will help you feel real happiness, the next step will only be choosing the right place and enjoying it.

Historical sights of Cyprus

If you want to see the history of the island, you can immediately visit such a landmark of Cyprus as the Limassol Castle. The place is so historic that King Richard the Lionheart had his own wedding here. The fortress had to endure many troubles: destruction and earthquakes. You can find ancient buildings, furniture and weapons to learn more about the previous life. An impressive panorama is provided to everyone who goes upstairs.

The burial places of the great rulers stretched for hundreds of meters. Entrance to the territory is paid, but it's worth it to see the passages and stairs among the tombs, shrouded in a network of secrets. Be sure to look under your feet so as not to fall into the well. Wall paintings are a kind of message of Christians to the current generation. For a long time there was no supervision of the tombs, so things were stolen. The surviving items can be seen in person.

The sights of Cyprus have chosen a place on the historical coast of Paphos. Temples, ruins, fortresses, other monuments - all this can be seen already at the entrance to the park. It is impossible to say exactly how many centuries these values ​​have lived their own lives, delighting travelers from all over the world. Thanks to a simple farmer, this park was found, which was soon excavated by archaeologists. Work is still ongoing, but tourists visit the site without much difficulty.

The place is famous for museums and churches that were built in memory of the holy martyrs. In ancient times, it was here, according to legend, that the gardens of the goddess Aphrodite were fragrant. You should definitely see the Church of St. Paraskeva, whose stamina was not broken by the most severe tortures in attempts to renounce the faith. The girl was beheaded. Believers recreate sick organs from wax, put them near the temple and pray for a cure. You can visit the church freely, but without a camera.

What to see a real lover of antiquity in Cyprus? This place should definitely be the burial place of many treasures of architecture - Kition. According to legend, this city was founded by the great-grandson of Noah. The tombs and remains of temples, which the Greeks had a hand in reviving years ago, have been found by archaeologists. The temple of Astarte, the goddess of love, has become one of the few largest surviving structures. There is also an opportunity to see a place for sacrifices to the gods.

You can see more of these objects in the sights of the island of Crete.

The open-air museum has become so famous over the years that tourists visit it without planning, stopping by on the road. Significant sights of Cyprus cannot be found here, everything has been destroyed, however, this compensates for climbing the hill, which offers a picturesque view. During the excavations, they found well-preserved remains of people who lived then, dishes, jewelry of women, which are now exhibited to be seen. The territory is a World Cultural Heritage Site.

A high hill with a charming view attracts tourists from all over the world. The size of the church is not very large, the style is unremarkable, but the dome and the impressive bell tower are the main decorations. The building was previously made of wood, but after the fire it was decided to use stone. The Byzantine style of the murals inside the building depict scenes from the Bible. It was done so amazingly that the restorers decided not to make any changes there.

This building has long been a rare decoration of a modest fishing village. And according to legend, impenetrable forests lived here at all, until one day a person came across an icon of the Virgin Mary in a cave. This sign will serve as a start to the construction of houses. It is not difficult to guess that it was on the site of the find that the church was subsequently erected. The daughter of a nobleman, who suffered from unhappy love, became an inspirer in the construction of the monastery. The design makes the most unforgettable impression.

The legend says that the emperor’s mother stopped to wait out the storm on the island, and an angel appeared to her, who advised her to found a monastery here, leaving in it a part of the Life-Giving Cross, which is still kept there. For a long time the temple was destroyed until it was completely reconstructed. The monks in the temple are engaged in housekeeping and icon painting. Women are not allowed to enter, and men visit the monastery on any day and time.

What to see in Cyprus? One of the main shrines where you can touch the relics of St. Lazarus, who was resurrected by Jesus on the fourth day and brought Christianity to Larnaca. The temple had a difficult fate, and the remains of the saint were temporarily lost, although all this time they were kept in a sarcophagus at the base. The restoration made it possible to find the remains and put them in the center of the temple. Having descended into the dungeon, it is impossible not to draw water from the holy spring.

In addition, the island is small, so trips to beauties will not be tiring. We have collected the most interesting sights of Cyprus, which are worth seeing for an inquisitive tourist.

Natural attractions of Cyprus

Have you seen where the gods are born? And the most beautiful gods? Cyprus gives such an opportunity. It was on its shores that the goddess of love, the beautiful Aphrodite, emerged from the sea foam. This place is called Petra tou Romiou. There, between Limassol and Paphos, there is also a small rocky beach surrounded by rocks. The entrance to it is through a tunnel. It's dangerous to swim, but the cold water and waves don't stop tourists trying to swim around the big boulder in the water - Stone of Aphrodite . They say it can make you look younger.

You can also enjoy the romance and beauty of Cyprus at Cape Greco, not far from Ayia Napa. It is worth looking at the transparent sea, the rocks that nature played with, decorating them in different shades, at the caves and bays.

To the east - 365 hectares of forest, this Cavo Greco National Park . The riot of colors is created by more than 400 species of plants, including about 30 species of orchids. Among the pines and junipers, there are many walking, cycling and horse trails. There are viewing platforms, benches for rest and picnic areas.

Especially rich in a variety of historical buildings Old city in Nicosia. For example, in Tripiotis church , built in 1695, travelers from all over the world come to look at the beautiful iconostasis with silver settings.

Worth a visit and Archbishop's Palace - the most beautiful building in Cyprus, as well as the majestic Caravanserai Buyuk-Khan in the Turkish part of the city.

Not only the capital of the island is rich in ancient buildings. While relaxing in Larnaca, visit the picturesque village of Lefkara with 18 churches, Mosque Hala Sultan Tekke near Salt Lake.

When in Protaras, stop by Liopetri where the painter Arthur Rimbaud lived.

Will be of interest to tourists church: St. Lazarus in Larnaca, Prophet Elijah in Protaras;

monasteries: St. George Alamanu near Limassol, St. Neophyte the Hermit near Paphos.

Modern sights of Cyprus

Tourists who love activity can visit water park and amusement park in Ayia Napa.

You can go to Larnaca, amusement park " Lucky Strike» , where there is a go-kart and about 30 rides.