Cyprus Information

Located in the Middle East, south of Turkey, Cyprus is a romantic island in the Mediterranean Sea, in fact, the third largest Mediterranean island. Cyprus is an assortment of cultures, the south noted for Turkish influence and the north pulsating with Greek influence, the cultural heritage of which can be found in the Greek Temples, Roman mosaics and 15th century frescoes.

Larnaca's palm trees run parallel to the beach and the street got its name Palm Tree Promenade. The Larnaca Fort dating back to 1625, built by the Turks, is on the seashore and was used as a prison. Today, the Larnaca Medieval Museum is within the confines of the fort. You can shop for curios in the shops on the western side. Larnaca reflects the English influence with its many English-style pubs and restaurants. At the seafront is the Statue of Classical Greek Naval officer Kimon, who died fighting the Persians.

St. Lazaru's Church housing the relics of the patron saint of Larnaca, looks splendid with Baroque woodcarvings. Another church is St. Phaneromeni Church, which has mystical powers to cure illnesses. It's believed that the ailing will be ridden of their afflictions if they walk around the church thrice and leave behind a piece of their clothing.

The Pierides Foundation Museum, Larnaca houses 2,500 exhibits, including Neolithic pottery, Goddess icons, bowls used for rituals, pictures of birds and fish, jugs form the site of Marion, masks, collection of glass and jewelry.

The Ancient City of Curium-Limassol, contains the remains of Curium (K ourion), including baths of 5th century BC, pavements done in mosaics, a theatre dating back to 50-175 A.D, where Shakespearean dramas were staged. The Temple of Apollo also adds to the grandeur! The 2nd century B.C. Greco-Roman Theatre today stages musical and theatrical shows.

Another interesting site is the Petra tou Romaiou (Rock of the Greek), Paphos, the spot where Greek God Aphrodite is believed to have emerged from the waves! Set against a beach, this place had inspired Boticelli into making the Birth of Venus!

The city of Nicosia is also a romantic getaway. The Municipal Gardens replete with trees and flowers offer a relishing treat to your eyes. The two small aviaries, have several large birds, including vultures. Get transported to a bygone era as you watch Greek and international plays staged at the Municipal Theatre.

A must-see is the Cyprus Museum, Nicosia, with exhibits dating back to Neolithic and Roman times of 5800 B.C to A.D.300!! The museum showcases, Bronze Age vases, jugs, clay figurines, Egyptian amulets, statues of Greek Gods, including the green-horned God of Engomi. There're exhibits from Kourion times. Room 9 is underground, with representations of rock-cut tombs and the highlight is Room 4, with excavated Votive figures of 7-6 B.C.

The Cyprus Handicraft Centre sells baskets, wood-carvings, leather articles, pottery and hand-made copper curios. You can actually watch artisans engage in their art!