Larnaca

Larnaca history is described as one of the oldest cities that has kept its modernization up to date with every age and time. Larnaca with its Phinikoudes palm trees on the seafront to the South of Cyprus have always attracted not only tourists but local Cypriots as well for a relaxing afternoons and romantic evenings. For many tourists Larnaca is the gateway to this heavenly beautiful Island as they arrive in International Airport of Larnaca.

First civilization roots recorded from the time of neolithic settlements in Choirokitia dated back in history to 5800 B.C. Those people are believed to be involved in trading with the neighboring communities, hunting and livestock. Larnaca also has treasures from the ruins of ancient City of Kition that is actually the birthplace of Zenon the infamous philosopher. Zenon was the founder of Greek school of Philosophy (Stoic School) built in 308 B.C. The philosophy beliefs were that God has determined everything for the best and virtue is sufficient to happiness.

The church of Panagia Angelloktisti meaning “Built by Angels” is situated in Kiti village. There is a myth behind the construction of this church that took place in the 11th century. Initially the construction began in another place,  and they discovered that the foundation has moved miraculously to the place where it stands today. The builders and workers also noticed that the construction was advancing more faster than the efforts they were using believing that angels are helping them in completing this church as faster as possible thus the name was given “Panagia Angelloktisti” built bu angels.

Phinikoudes Promenade is one of the most favorable place of all visitors that come to Larnaca. The place is best for summer evenings, and is mostly used for events where local Cypriots and tourists of all ages enjoy fun of their own taste. The seafront and the palm trees creates a very romantic view and atmosphere in the breezing wind of summer months. Numbers of bars, night clubs, pubs restaurants welcomes thousands of tourists to the heart of Cyprus night life where world’s top DJs perform live on different occasions though out the summer. Larnaca has unforgetable night life style that any visitor wishes to enjoy again and again.

Cyprus major and biggest airport is located in Larnaca, thus all tourists arrive in Larnaca where the magical views of the city astonishes them at their first glance. Larnaca salt lake is near by where flamingos and other migrant birds are seen each year. A complex made up of a mosque, mausoleum and a minaret called Hala Sultan Tekke is also situated in the same area. The site is considered one of the most holiest and important locations for the muslims community in Cyprus.

Places of Interest

Larnaca Archaeological Museum

Larnaca is a heart of historical and ancient findings. Larnaca Archaeological museum serves the best to display major variety of finds from the area that is recorded back to the time of Neolithic Age. This museum also has many findings from the period of Romans. Living methods of people from Neolithic age in Kition are on display that amuses the visitor and make them feel a part of it.

Pierides Museum

The Pierides Foundation Museum was first founded in 1839 by Demetrios Pierides who began to purchase artifacts to keep them in Cyprus. Purpose of this Museum was very important for the Cypriot artifacts preservation. Many Cypriot artifacts were being sold abroad to other museums by local dealers were purchased and stored them in Pierides Museum.

Faros Beach

Just for about 10 minutes drive from Larnaca International Airport, Faors Beach is the places for quite and silent atmosphere while sunbathing. This beach is located in the village of Pervolia.

Makenzie Beach

The white sand and crystal clear water welcomes Tourists to enjoy all kind of water sports including scuba diving at the Beach of Makenzie. This beach is also very near to Larnaca Airport and is only about 5 minutes drive away from it. There are many restaurants offering both Cyprus and International cuisine. Fresh fish is available throughout the year in these restaurants.

CTO Beach

CTO beach is a place for many sporting events. Volleyball, handball and other sports tournaments are held in CTO beach. These events are for free of charge to view. This beach offers a wide range of water sports, many beach bars and playgrounds for children while the parents are enjoying tanning under Cyprus clear sunny skies.

Phinikoudes Beach

The most astonishing site of Larnaca, and famous among all ages of tourists, Phinikoudes Beach is the place for romance. Situated on the seafront of Larnaca, and the beautiful Plam tress adding magnificient view to the site, Phinikoudes Beach is the most favourible place in Larnaca. Tourists in Cyprus have access to the nearby shops, restaurants, bars, and other entertainment spots that. Daily boats trips are available to different locations in Cyprus from the Phinikoudes sea front.

Angeloktisti Church

Located 11 km towards the west of Larnaca in Kiti village, Angeloktisti Church has a myth behind its construction. Its name when translated in English means “Built by the Angel”. This church is actually built over the remaining of the early Christian basilica in 11th century and is a finest example of Byzantine work in Cyprus. It is believed, when they started building the Church, the construction moved faster than the work force and their efforts, each time miraculous progress was noticed by them thus name was given to the church as Angeloktisti Church. The Virgin Mary mosaic from 6th century and Child between two archangels is a piece of attraction for all tourists visiting Cyprus. This place is a must see site once arrived to Cyprus.

Stavrovouni Monastery

The place is said to have been founded by the mother of Constantine the Great, Saint Helena in the 4th Century, who left a fragment of the Holy Cross. Stavrovouni meaning mountain of the cross, The name is given as the monastery is located on a rocky peak.  Women are not allowed to enter the monastery though there are daily visits to this monastery

St. Lazarus Church

Dervied from his name, Saint Lazarus (Ayios Lazaros) is the patron saint of Larnaca. Kition ancient name for Larnaca is considered his second home as he spent 30 years of his here after resurrection by Christ. He was ordained Bishop of Kition by Saints Barbaras and Mark. A wonderful church was raised over his tomb in 9th century by Emperor Leo VI. St. Lazarus Church is one of the magnificent sample of Byzantine architecture in Cyprus and was restored in the 17th century.