Sights
Throughout centuries-old history Cyprus played an important role in succession of events in the east Mediterranean. The first historical data are aging to VI millenium B.C. One of the most ancient human settlements in Europe is Choirokoitia near Larnaka. Cyprus is the birthplace of Aphrodite goddess. The huge stone sticks out of the sea - this is the place known as Petra tou Romiou, here according to the legend goddess of love and beauty Aphrodite appeared from sea foam. Baths of Aphrodite in Polis and Fontana Amorosa (Love Source) also reflect the life of this goddess in the island. This myth generated a mass wave of cults and rituals in all neighboring countries surviving several centuries.The city of Nicosia is lying in the heart of the Cyprus island in the fertile valley Mesaoria, between two mountain ridges - Troodos and Kirenia. It is the biggest and most dense with population city of the island. It is inhabited by about 180 thousand people.
Nicosia divided into two parts is simultaneously the capital of Cyprus and the center of the Turkish Northern Cyprus. In Turkish Nicosia is called Lefkosha. Greeks-Cypriotes call the capital Lefcosia.
Venetian walls. These fortifications were erected at the end of the Venetians government epoch, during the period from 1567 to 1570 projected by architect Julio Savorgniano. Earth-deposits were revetted with the stone, 11 bastions were to provide protection of the city walls the total length of which made almost 5 km. Three gates were built to arrange entry into the city: Famagusta, Paphos and Kirenia.
Gate of Famagusta. This is one of three passes through the Venetian fortifications known also as Porto Juliano. Those who went to Famagusta and Larnaka began their trip from this gate. The project of the gate restoration was awarded with the international prize "Europa Nostra".
Laiki Geitonia. Means "Neighbour quarter". This is area of the old city which was restored with love and attention. Houses of traditional architecture, made of limestone, decorated with balconies and protected by sun blind, form the small and narrow streets with workshops and souvenir shops, plenty of coffee houses and taverns. It ideally suits for the pedestrians. It is located inside of the Venetian walls, near the area Plateia Elefterias, opposite to the bastion D'Avila.
The whole island has great variety of natural and historical places, mountain landscapes, picturesque villages and varicoloured cities. This is the country of impressing festivals, traditions and myths where hospitality and charm rule, this island can be called the museum island. Here everything is history. Untouched by time ruins of antique cities, amphitheaters, fortresses, temples, lonely Byzantian monasteries and many other centuries-old monuments are the silent witnesses of Cyprus. Homer called Cyprus as " the most beautiful island". Throughout the centuries Cyprus attracted, charmed and inspired people.
Paphos
Paphos is an ancient capital of Cyprus of the Roman sovereignty times, this city and its vicinities contain considerable quantity of historical monuments and antiquities. Paphos is suitable for the tourists who want to get acquainted with the antique period of Cyprus history, to visit museums, archeological excavations and world famous antique mosaics. They are the most famous sight in Paphos. Some of them are recognized to be the best in the world, for example, the mosaic in the name of Dyonisos.
Larnaka
Larnaka is the third large city of Cyprus, quickly developing resort and economic center of Cyprus. In addition to the remarkable beaches, emerald sea and comfortable hotels the city has large shopping centers, markets and small little shops with the various goods.
Agia Napa
Aja Napa is one of the most popular first class resorts in Europe. Owing to the plenty of places for entertainments the life in this resort amazes with the atmosphere of constant fun and pleasure. Tourists are offered various kinds of sports, restaurants invite to taste dishes of local cuisine and fine wines, and discos offer cheerfully to dance with the rhythms of music from every corner of the world.
Protaras
Protaras is a quickly developing resort housing numerous newest hotel complexes. The tourist area is located on the southeast coast of the island between Agia Napa and Paralimni. Protaras has one of the most beautiful beaches in the island — fine gold sand, transparent waters and beautiful rocky bays shading tiny gulfs, magnificent hotels.