Larnaka

Larnaka seafront is vaguely reminiscent of the Continental promenade, with its line of mature palms and its languid air of sleepy charm. Cafes and tavernas line the area near the sea, making this a popular spot with visitors and Cypriots alike during the long summer. Nearby is the Marina, frequented by yachtsmen from all over the world.

At the western end of the promenade is the town’s 17 th centrury fort, which now houses the Larnaka Mediaeval Museum.

As the home of the island’s main international airport, Larnaka offers many visitors their first taste of Cyprus. One of the first sights is the beautiful salt lake, home in the cooler months to colonies of graceful flamingos and other migratory birds. Beside the lake, in a tranquil setting crowned by lush palms, is th Hala Sultan Tekesi, build to the memory of Prophet Mohammed’s aunt.

Larnaka’s links with Christianity go back to the very beginning, for the town’s first bishop was none other than Agios Lazaros, who chose to live his ‘second life’ there after Jesus had raised him from the dead. A church built in his name exists on the spot where his remains where said to be found.

Places to visit in Larnaka are Larnaka’s District Archaeological Museum, the Pierides Foundation Museum, the town’s marbel bust of Zeno the philosopher, the ancient city-kingdom of Kition established by Mycenean Greeks in the 13 th century B.C and the church of Agia Faneromeni built on the 8 th century B.C.

Stavrovouni, one of the oldest and most dramatically sited monasteries in Cyprus, founded by Saint Helena, is within reach of Larnaka. Pearched atop a mountain it has stunning views in all direction. In accordance with the strict monastic tradition observed by this particular order, women are not allowed inside Stavrovouni Moanstery.

gain within striking distance of Larnaka, is the Chrurch of Panagia Angeloktisti which houses the 6 th century life size Byzantine mosaic of the Virgin Mary – one of the finest in the world from the period. A visit to the village of Lefkara, famed for the lace-like embroidery known as ‘Lefkaritika’ that was said to captivate Leonardo da Vince, is also a treat. Further south, is the remarkable site of Choirokoitia, included in the Unesco World Heritage List, where excavations have yielded one of the most important Neolithic settlements found anywhere in the world.

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