Cyprus is an island nation located in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Cyprus today is a complex tapestry of Greek, Turkish and Middle Eastern cultures and British, colonial influences emerging from its complex and layered historical past. It has numerous archaeological sites, ancient ruins and historic towns, captivating landscapes from rugged mountains to beautiful beaches, diverse cultural heritage and mouth-watering food - making it a well-rounded destination to visit. The official languages are Greek and Turkish and English is widely spoken. This is our travel story, how we sepnd our time in the island and explored length and breath of it. This is our 8 days travel itinerary of Cyprus, covering eastern Cyprus and central Troodos Mountains.
Day 1 – Larnaca
Larnaca is a charming city located on the southern coast of Cyprus. It is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty but has a lovely laid-back atmosphere. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit due to the mild weather.
We started our Sunday with a breakfast at StoArtos Coffee Bakery and headed to our four destinations that we had planned to cover before lunch. Three of the destinations are can be combined -The Larnaca aqueduct with a leisurely walk or bike ride around the Larnaca Salt Lake and the nearby Hala Sultan Tekke mosque.
Church of Saint Lazarus
The church is centrally located in Larnaca, near the main promenade and Finikoudes Beach. It is one of the most significant and revered religious sites in Cyprus. This beautiful church is dedicated to Saint Lazarus, who, according to Christian tradition, was raised from the dead by Jesus Christ. After his resurrection, Lazarus is believed to have fled to Cyprus due to persecution and later became the first Bishop of Kition (modern-day Larnaca) and is believed to have lived in Larnaca for 30 more years.
This beautiful orthodox church was built in the 9th century by Byzantine Emperor Leo VI the Wise to honour Saint Lazarus. According to tradition, the church was constructed over the tomb of Saint Lazarus. During the Ottoman period, the church was converted into a mosque, but it was later returned to the Orthodox Christians when the British annexed Cyprus.
The church is a fine example of Byzantine architecture and is constructed primarily from local limestone and features a combination of architectural styles due to various restorations over the centuries. The church has a three-aisled basilica design with a bell tower that was added in the 19th century. Inside, the church is richly decorated with religious icons, chandeliers, and an elaborate wood-carved iconostasis (altar screen) created in the 18th century. The iconostasis is adorned with gilded icons and intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Bible and the life of Saint Lazarus. Beneath the altar, a small crypt can be accessed, where the tomb of Saint Lazarus is believed to be located.
The marble sarcophagus of Saint Lazarus and worshipers litting candles next to it
Although the remains were transferred to Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) In 9th century AD and later to Marseille, the marble sarcophagus and a few bones were found in the church during the 1972 renovation.
Today, the church is an active place of worship, and visitors can attend services, especially on significant feast days such as the feast of Saint Lazarus, celebrated eight days before Easter. As a place of worship, it is considerate to dress modestly.
Larnaca Aqueduct
The Larnaca aqueduct is located just outside the city, near the Larnaca Salt Lake and close to the main road leading to the Larnaca International Airport. It is easily accessible by car or bicycle, and there are parking areas nearby.
The Larnaca Aqueduct, is an impressive historical structure also known as ‘Kamares’ which means "arches" in Greek, reflecting the aqueduct's defining architectural feature. It was commissioned to be built in the 18th century by the Ottoman governor of Larnaca- Bekir Pasha to supply fresh water to the region from a spring in the nearby village of Tremithos (today known as Tersefanou), approximately 6 miles away. It played a vital role in supplying fresh water to the city's inhabitants for nearly two centuries until the 1930s, when modern water supply systems were introduced to Larnaca.
This impressive stone aqueduct is a remarkable example engineering and water management during the Ottoman period and was designed to harness the natural slope of the land, using gravity to transport water across the valley and into the city. It was constructed using local limestone and consists of 75 arches.
It spans a length of about 6 miles, although only a portion of this is visible today. The aqueduct is a protected cultural heritage site, and efforts have been made to preserve it as an important part of Larnaca's historical landscape.
We had a nice leisurely walk along the aqueduct and admired the magnificence of its arches, stretching across the landscape and the wildflowers and the gentle breeze! The aqueduct is illuminated at night, creating a stunning sight as the arches are lit up against the dark sky. It’s a beautiful place to visit after dark for a different perspective.
Larnaca Salt Lake
The Larnaca Salt Lake known locally as ‘Alyki’, is located just west of Larnaca city, close to Larnaca International Airport and near the famous Hala Sultan Tekke mosque.
It is one of the most famous natural landmarks in Cyprus. It is a unique ecosystem that offers a stunning landscape and an opportunity to observe wildlife, particularly during the winter months.
The salt lake actually consists of a network of four lakes: the main lake, Lake Aliki, and three smaller ones called Orphani, Soros, and Spiro. Together, these lakes cover an area of about 1.4 square miles, making it the second largest salt lake in Cyprus, after the Akrotiri Salt Lake near Limassol.
Historically, the lake was an important source of salt for Cyprus. During the dry summer months, the water evaporates, leaving behind a thick crust of salt. This salt was harvested and exported extensively from the Middle Ages until the early 1980s. Today, salt is no longer harvested from the lake, but the white salt crust that forms in summer is a distinctive feature of the landscape.
The Larnaca Salt Lake is a vital habitat for migratory birds, particularly flamingos. During the winter months (typically from November to March), the lake is filled with water, attracting thousands of flamingos and other bird species such as herons, avocets, and wild ducks. It's a significant resting place for these birds as they migrate between Africa and Europe, making it an important bird-watching site. Besides birds, the area is home to various plant species adapted to the saline environment, such as salt-tolerant plants and shrubs. The area also supports a range of other wildlife, including insects and small mammals.
There are several walking paths around the lake with viewpoints from where you can observe the birds. If you have a pair of binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens then you can probably get more fun with bird watching! With all the magic from the colorus of the white salt crust, pink flamingos, and surrounding greenery- this sure is a photographer’s paradise!
We did see some birds including some flamingos during our visit, though we weren’t expecting any!
The walking trails around the salt lake make for an enjoyable leisurely stroll, connect the lake with the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque, which was our next destination!
Hala Sultan Tekke
Located on the western shores of the Larnaca Salt Lake and surrounded by a tranquil palm grove, the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque is definitely a serene place to visit. It is considered the fourth holiest sites in Islam after Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem.
The mosque is believed to be the burial site of Umm Haram bint Milhan known as ‘Hala Sultan’ in Turkish tradition, was a companion and the maternal aunt of the Prophet Muhammad. She was one of the Muslims wartime nurses who served wounded soldiers. She accompanied early Muslim expeditions to Cyprus. Lived life in Medina and different parts of the world, such as Syria, Palestine, Egypt and lastly in Cyprus. During a campaign against the Byzantine Empire in the 7th century, she sailed on the sea to reach Cyprus.
The mosque was built by Ottoman Turks in the late 18th century, under the orders of the then Ottoman Governor of Cyprus. It was constructed at the site where Umm Haram was believed to have fallen from her horse and died.
The Hala Sultan Tekke complex consists of several structures, including the mosque itself, a mausoleum (tomb of Umm Haram), a minaret, and a courtyard. The mosque's architecture reflects typical Ottoman design, with a large domed roof and a minaret that rises above the surrounding landscape.
The interior of the mosque is simple, featuring a prayer hall with a mihrab (a niche indicating the direction of Mecca), and a minbar (a pulpit used by the imam for sermons). The interior is decorated with traditional Islamic motifs and calligraphy.
The tomb of Umm Haram is located in the mosque's inner courtyard and is covered with a stone slab. Over the years, the mosque complex has been expanded and restored multiple times.
Visitors can explore the mosque complex, including the main prayer hall, the tomb of Umm Haram, and the surrounding gardens. As a religious site, visitors are expected to dress modestly.
After visiting Hala Sultan Tekke, with a nice appettie we headed to Zenon Taverna in Larnaca. After enjoying a sumptuous and satoisfactory Cyriopt meal we started driving towards our next destination of the day - Neolithic Settlement of Choirokoitia.
Neolithic Settlement of Choirokoitia
The Neolithic Settlement of Choirokoitia (or Khirokitia) is a well-preserved archaeological site near Larnaca. It is located about 20 miles southwest of Larnaca and 30 miles south of Nicosia, just off the main highway connecting the two cities. It is a window to the agricultural practices, social organization, and architectural development during the Neolithic period in the Eastern Mediterranean region.
The settlement dates back to the Pre-Pottery Neolithic period and is one of the earliest known farming communities in Cyprus. The site was discovered in the 1930s, and systematic excavations began in 1936 and have continued intermittently, providing substantial archaeological evidence of early Neolithic society on the island. In recognition of its historical significance the Neolithic Settlement of Choirokoitia was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998.
The settlement is strategically situated on a hillside overlooking the Maroni River. The settlement is encircled by a stone wall and contains unique circular dwellings of various sizes built with limestone and mudbrick, with stone foundations and flat or slightly domed roofs made from wood, reeds, and mud. There are quite a few ‘reconstructed’ dwellings that give a sneak peek into the original way of life during those time. This communal way of life during the Neolithic period with shared hearths and storage pits, shared spaces seems quite advanced for that period.
The inhabitants were thought to be doing mixed farming cultivating crops like wheat, barley, and lentils, and raising domesticated animals such as sheep, goats, and pigs and continued to hunt and gather. They often buried their dead beneath the floors of houses as skeletal remains and grave goods, such as tools, pottery, and ornaments, have been discovered.
We spent some time walking and stopping to enjoy the beautiful panoramic views from the hillside location overlooking the Maroni River valley. We finished visiting the Neolithic Settlement of Choirokoitia late afternoon and haeded to our last destination of the day - The Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Angeloktisti
The Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Angeloktisti
Also known as Panagia Angeloktisti, this historic Byzantine church is located in the village of Kiti, near Larnaca. The name ‘Angeloktisti’ means ‘built by angels’ in Greek, and according to local legend, the church was miraculously built by angels overnight to protect it from a group of invaders.
The original early Byzantine Basilica is thought to date back to the 6th century during the early Christian period in Cyprus. The current structure is a reconstruction on the foundations of the original basilica which was thought to have been damaged due to an earthquake and dates back to primarily to the 11th century. The church is relatively small, with a single nave and a dome supported by four arches built in the shape of a cross-in-square, which was a common architectural style for orthodox churches and Byzantine architecture.
The church is renowned for its ancient mosaics and its unique architectural features, making it a significant religious and cultural site on the island. Inside, the church boasts well-preserved frescoes and a remarkable mosaic made of small, coloured stones and glass of the Virgin Mary (Panagia) holding the infant Jesus in her arms, flanked by two archangels. This mosaic is located in the apse of the church and is considered one of the most important examples of Byzantine art in Cyprus.
The Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Angeloktisti is an important site of worship for the Greek Orthodox community in Cyprus and is a place of pilgrimage, especially on the feast day of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, celebrated on 15th August. As this is a religious site, it is good to dress modestly.
With all the walking and exploring, we were ready to call it a day and retreat back to the hotel to relax!
Day 2 – Aiya Napa and Cape Greco National Forest Park
On day two we drive towards the east/ south-east part of the island.
Ayia Thekla Chapel
A simple yet charming chapel with its whitewashed walls and blue dome, Ayia Thekla has a beautiful backdrop by virtue of its coastal location. The blue dome and bell tower and the white walls stand out against the backdrop of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea. Situated near a small beach with the same name, Ayia Thekla Beach, the chapel offers a serene place for a stop over and a leisurely stroll.
This small orthodox chapel was built in the 16th century by the Venetians and dedicated to Saint Thekla, a revered early Christian saint who is considered one of the first female martyrs of the Christian faith. Thekla is considered a proto-martyr, even though she was not martyred in the traditional sense. She is venerated as a saint by both the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church.
Cape Greco National Forest Park
Located in the southeastern coast of Cyprus, near Ayia Napa and Protaras, Cape Greco National Forest Park is a protected national park, known as known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse flora and fauna. It is also a designated Natura 2000 site- which means it is a protected area within the European Union's Natura 2000 network that aims to preserve biodiversity by protecting certain animal species and their habitats.
Panoramic views and hiking trails of Cape Greco National Forest Park
It is a nice place to walk or hike along the several well-marked hiking trails that wind through the area. The rugged cliffs offer panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a great spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the colours are particularly vibrant.
The Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon often confuses visitors because there is a more famous Blue Lagoon in the Paphos district, near the Akamas Peninsula, which is renowned for its turquoise waters and beautiful natural scenery. However, in terms of Larnaca area, "Blue Lagoon" refers to Cape Greco. The Blue Lagoon is known for its brilliant blue and turquoise waters, which are crystal clear so you can explore the caves, swim, or snorkel in the clear waters and enjoy the underwater landscape and see the abundant marine life.
There are also many boat tours from Ayia Napa and Protaras that offer trips to the Blue Lagoon. Some tours also include snorkeling equipment and provide opportunities for cliff jumping.
Cyclops Cave
Cyclops Cave is located in the southwest side of the Ammachostos district. The Konnoi - Cyclops Cave trail follows a route parallel to the rugged shore and passing through shrubby vegetation. It takes around 15 minutes from Konno bay. The cave is located at an altitude of 15 metres above sea level. It is relatively shallow so can feel claustrophobic to some people, but is an area of approximately 100 square metres with two entrances, one facing the sea and the other being hidden by vegetation. We entered through the second and came out through the sea facing entrance.
The cave gets its name from the legend of the Cyclops, one-eyed giants from Greek mythology, it is believed that the cave was inhabited by a family of cyclops after they were shipwrecked on the island following a storm.
After lots of walkinmg and hiking in the morning, we headed for lunch at Old Simos Tavern. After enjoying a relaxing and delicious mediterranean lunch we headed back to Cape Greco National Forest Park for couple more attractions.
Kamara Tou Koraka or Crow’s Arch
Kamara Tou Koraka, also known as the ‘Arch of Korakas’ or ‘Crow’s Arch’, is a natural stone arch situated within the Cape Greco National Forest Park and positioned on the southeastern coast of Cyprus, between the towns of Ayia Napa and Protaras. It is easily accessible from Larnaca by car, taking about 45 minutes.
The stone arch is a natural geological formation created by the erosive action of the sea and wind over thousands of years. The arch spans over the sea and is composed of limestone, which is prevalent in the Cape Greco region. It extends about 15 meters (approximately 50 feet) across the water, with a height of about 30 meters (approximately 100 feet) above sea level at its highest point. However, due to erosion and the potential danger of collapse, there are now barriers and warning signs to prevent people from walking on the arch.
Ayioi Anargiroi Church
Ayioi Anargyroi Church is a small, picturesque Greek Orthodox chapel located on the eastern coast of Cyprus, in the Cape Greco National Forest Park, close to the towns of Ayia Napa and Protaras.
The church is dedicated to the ‘Holy Unmercenaries’ or ‘Ayioi Anargyroi’ in Greek, - the word anargyroi means ‘without silver’ or ‘without money.’ The title ‘Ayioi Anargyroi’ is given to saints who provided free medical care and performed miracles of healing. The most famous among these saints are ‘Saints Cosmas and Damian’, who were twin brothers and physicians from the early Christian period known for their charitable works.
Ayioi Anargyroi Church is a simple, whitewashed chapel with a blue dome, typical of the traditional Greek Orthodox architecture seen throughout Cyprus. The church is also a popular venue for weddings and christenings, thanks to its picturesque setting and serene atmosphere.
The church is easily accessible by car, with a small parking area nearby. Like we did, the Ayioi Anargyroi Church is often combined with other attractions in the Cape Greco area, such as the Kamara Tou Koraka and the various sea caves and hiking trails. A good way to combine some inner reflection and serenity with some hiking, walking and exploring the beautiful waters!
Sea Caves, Ayia Napa
The sea caves along the coastline of Ayia Napa, have some stunning rock formations. There is one main circular cave that’s easily accessible after a bit of trekking down and offers magnificent views of the caves but be prepared for a queue of creative young Instragrammers waiting to try a few dozen shots!
Love Bridge or Bridge of Love, Ayia Napa
Love bridge is one of the most popular natural attractions in Ayia Napa. It’s a naturally formed rocky arched bridge created centuries ago and the shape of the bridge is completely natural without any human intervention. The bridge is an extension of the natural rocky plateau at the edge of the sea, extending onto a bedrock located over the crystal-clear turquoise water. The bridge is approximately 6 meters in length and roughly 1 meter wide.
The place is very popular among the photographers and couples, specially during sunset as the setting sun behind the bridge present a magical view. It is believed that kissing your loved one and making a wish while standing on the middle of teh arch always comes true. Aside from photographers and Instagrammers it is also a favourite spot for romantic walks and proposals, hence the nickname ‘Love Bridge’.
There is a small car park near the bridge from where the walk to the bridge takes around 5 minutes. We arrived at the location later afternoon and crowed was already starting to build up. This suggests the area become crowded at sunset when everyone tries to capture a span of setting sun behind the bridge. We send good 30-45 minutes there, took a lot of snaps and headed to our last destination of the day which was a stone throw away from love bridge – Ayia Napa Sculpture Park.
Sculpture Park, Ayia Napa
Inaugurated in 2014, Aiya Napa Sculpture Park is a blend of art, history and mythology with nature and landscape brought together under one roof, or rather open sky! The park is spread across 20,000 square meter area on a slope ground that run down towards the sea and gives a panoramic view of the coastline and the sea beyond it. The sculpture park houses art from 40 sculptors from around the world. And artwork is keep growing with every passing year with more sculptures are finding a place in the park.
Many sculptures of mythological gods and goddesses including Aphrodite, Hermes, Poseidon and many others can be found in the park made by various sculptors. All sculptures are places alongside the winding walking path that goes around the park.
The entry to the park is free all day and there is a car cark at the entrance which is also free. There are toilets and cafe in the park for visitors. We visited the park late afternoon and stroll around the part leisurely till sun set. It was a great and relaxing end of a day filled with lots of walking and hiking in lap of nature.
Day 3 - Beautifil Villages in foothills of Troodos Mountains
On day three we drove towards the north of island to the foothills of Troodos Mountain to visit some of the most beautiful and picturesque villages of Cyprus.
Kato Drys Village
Kato Drys is located approximately 36 kilometres southwest of Larnaca in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains. It is charming little village bursting with traditional architecture. The name Kato Drys means ‘Lower Oak’ in Greek, which reflects the abundance of oak trees in the area. The village has a long history, with roots dating back to Byzantine and medieval times. Over the centuries, it has retained much of its traditional character and charm which can be seen today in its narrow, winding streets and traditional stone-built houses, many of which have been restored and preserved. The architecture features stone facades, wooden balconies, and tiled roofs, typical of Cypriot rural villages.
Traditional and charming houses and alleyway of Kato Drys village
The village has a long tradition of agriculture, particularly in grape cultivation and wine production. It is also known for its olive groves and production of olive oil. In addition to agriculture, Kato Drys has a history of traditional crafts, including embroidery, lace-making, and basket weaving. These crafts are still practiced by some of the village’s residents and are an important part of its cultural heritage.
As you walk around the village, you can visit some of the other attractions in the area:
St. Charalambos Church: The main church in the village, dedicated to Saint Charalambos, is a small but beautiful church, featuring traditional iconography.
Kato Drys is also home to the Local Museum of Folk Art, which provides insights into the traditional life of the village and the surrounding region. The museum exhibits a collection of artifacts, including tools, household items, and textiles, showcasing the rural lifestyle of the past.
Bee and Embroidery Museum: This museum highlights the history and importance of beekeeping and intricate traditional embroidery in the village’s economy and culture.
The surrounding countryside has some beautiful vineyards, olive groves that make the most of the scenic landscapes of the Troodos foothills.
Christoudia Winery
Christoudia Winery is a small but picturesque winery located just outside the village of Kota Drys in a small valley. The winery makes red, wite, rose and dessert wine from the vineyards around the winery. The winery offers a relaxing outdoor wine tasting session in a beautiful setting near the vineyard. We tasted few wines, walked around the vineyards under late morning sun for a while before leaving the winery with couple of bottles of wines.
Wine tasting at Christoudia Winery, Kato Drys
When we visited Cyprus in April and hence grapes vines were just started to grow leaves after long dormant winter period. This winery and its vineyards look even more splendid in summer months of August and early September when the vines are fully grown and overloaded with bunch of grapes ready to be harvested. The winery also hosts wedding and private events throughout the year.
Village of Pano Lefkara
Pano Lefkara is a picturesque village nestled on the southern slopes of the Troodos Mountains. The name ‘Lefkara’ is thought to have come from the Greek words ‘lefka’, meaning white and ‘ori’, meaning mountains, referring to the white limestone hills surrounding the area. Pano Lefkara is a beautiful village with narrow, winding streets, stone-built houses, and traditional architecture. Many of the buildings have been well preserved and feature classic Cypriot elements such as wooden balconies, ornate doors, and red-tiled roofs.
Pano Lefkara is renowned for its traditional lacemaking, known as ‘Lefkaritika’, and silverwork. Lefkaritika lace is characterized by its intricate geometric patterns and is often made with a combination of cutwork and needle lace. Lefkara lace is traditionally made by women in the village, often sitting outside their homes or in courtyards, meticulously creating each piece by hand. Lefkara lace was so esteemed that it is said Leonardo da Vinci visited the village in 1481 and purchased lace to decorate the altar of the Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral). The craftsmanship of Lefkara lace was recognized by UNESCO in 2009 when it was inscribed on the ‘Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’.
In addition to lace, Pano Lefkara is also known for its fine silverwork. The village’s silversmiths produce intricate filigree jewellery and other decorative items, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. Like Lefkara lace, the silver items are often handmade, using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
You can also visit the Church of the Holy Cross, a 14th century church which features a blend of Gothic and Byzantine architectural styles and houses a unique silver cross containing a relic of the True Cross, which is believed to have been brought to the village during the Crusades.
Pano Lefkara is also home to several small museums, including the Local Museum of Traditional Embroidery and Silversmithing, which showcases the history and techniques of the village’s famous crafts.
Stone-built houses and traditional architecture in Puno Lafkara Village
We strolled through the narrow streets of the village, spending time with quirky little shops selling laces or cookies with real looking laces and also fine Filigree jewellery. Talking with the shop owners and buying a few knick-knacks gives you a glimpse into the almost lost art of selling!
After some good old shopping, we headed for a slow and relaxed lunch at Pavilion Restaurant in Pano Lefkara.
Terra Oliva Organic Olive Farm
Terra Oliva Organic Olive Farm is situated near the village of Pano Lafkara in the Larnaca District. The region is known for its scenic landscapes, with rolling hills, fertile soils, and a climate that is ideal for olive cultivation. The farm is led by a mother son duo who seem extremely passionate about their work and quality of produce.
They use organic farming methods and employ sustainable agricultural practices to maintain soil health and promote biodiversity. Harvesting is also done using traditional methods, often by hand, to ensure that the olives are picked at their peak ripeness. After harvesting, the olives are promptly processed at the farm’s own facilities which use modern cold-press extraction techniques to retain the flavour and nutritional value.
We did the tour and tasting - in reverse order though! We were welcomed into a huge shed-like structure with a generous variety of olives, olive paste and breads, and wine. The beautiful sun and the breeze provided the perfect setting to enjoy some delicious olives right at the farm. We got a few bottles of olive oil and paste and then ventured to the tour aspect. The best part was this insanely old olive tree which had an open trunk and you could literally walk into the trunk! The olive farm has a wooden canopy walking deck over the olive grove which present a panoramic view of the farm and sarraounding moountains.
`We then casually explored the farm on our own and then settled at the rooftop bar like area where the mum owner chatted in all her liveliness over some zesty handmade lemonade! The view of the surrounding landscape from the vewing platform of the bar area was stunning, breathtaking and peaceful. We sat quietly and enjoyed the view while sipping freshly made cold lemonade in sunny afternoon.
Village of Vavatsinia
After spending a relaxing time in olive firm, we headed towards the mountain village of Vavatsinia in late afternoon. The village was established during the Arab incursions when people from coastal Cyprus escaped to mountain with their animals. Which makes the shepherds as the original occupants of this village. The village houses many old traditional buildings made from stone with terracotta roof, similar to the other picturesque villages from the surrounding area.
In the centre of the village, in the square the main church of the village is located. The church which is dedicated to Saint George the Great was constructed in 1912. The church is open to victors from late April to early November. We were the only visitors at the church when we visited the village. It was late afternoon, and sun was about to set beyond the mountains of village of Vavatsinia, so we headed back to Larnaca to avoid driving in the winding mountain road in the dark.
However, before leaving the area, we had to stop for the last attraction which was the most magical moment of the day and perhaps most surreal moment of the entire Cyprus trip – seeing the dramatic sunset at the backdrop of the village of Kato Drys. We stopped by the roadside at a vantage point outside the village, got mesmerised by the screen of the setting sun and headed back to our hotel in Larnaca.
Day 4 – Central Cyprus, Troodos Mountain
Today after breakfast we checked out from our hotel in Larnaca and headed towards the heart of the Troodos Mountain in central Cyprus. Troodos Mountain is dotted with many small monasteries and churches, some are from Byzantine period. Many of these churches in the small villages in Troodos Mountain are part of the group of painted churches are part of the UNESCO World Heritage List. These churches are recognized for their unique architecture, stunning frescoes, which represent a blend of Byzantine and local artistic traditions.
Machairas Monastery
Our first destination in the Troodos Mountain was Machairas Monastery. Nestled in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains surrounded by dense forests of pine and oak, the monastery is renowned for its scenic beauty, architectural significance, and the veneration of its miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary. It is one of the most important historic Greek Orthodox monasteries in Cyprus.
The Machairas Monastery is believed to have been founded and established in the late 12th century by two monks, Neophytos and Ignatius, who came from Palestine. According to tradition, they discovered a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, which was hidden in a cave near the current site of the monastery. The icon is believed to have been painted by Saint Luke the Evangelist and was brought to Cyprus from Asia Minor during the period of Iconoclasm (destruction of icons and other images or monuments) in the Byzantine Empire (8th to 9th century). During this time many icons were hidden to protect them from the iconoclasts. It is believed that the monks were led to the hidden icon by a divine vision. The icon was found in a cave sealed by dense shrubbery, which the monks cut through with a knife. Hence, the name ‘Machairas’ meaning knife.
Church of the Transfiguration of the Saviour, Palaichori
Our next stop in the Troodos Mountain was the Church of the Transfiguration of the Saviour. The church is located in the village of Palaichori. The unassuming church is part of the group of painted churches in the Troodos region that have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Built in the 16th century, this church is a small, single-aisle building with a steep-pitched timber roof, a typical feature of mountain churches in Cyprus. Its interior is richly decorated with wall paintings which depict the Transfiguration of Christ. ‘Transfiguration’ refers to Jesus' transformation from his earthly life to reveal his divine form. It is believed that Jesus took three of his disciples, Peter, James, and John, up on a mountain (supposedly Tabor Mountain in Israel), where Moses and Elijah appeared, and Jesus was transfigured. The event is considered a key milestone of his life alongside baptism, crucifixion, resurrection and ascension.
The frescoes have vibrant colours and detailed representation of other biblical scenes like Last Judgment, providing a visual narrative of Orthodox Christian theology.
Church of the Holy Cross of Agiasmati, Platanistasa
We continuted our exploration of UNESCO listed churches in Troodos Mountain and headed to our next destination - Church of the Holy Cross of Agiasmati. Also part of the UNESCO World Heritage ‘Painted Churches in the Troodos Region’, the Church of the Holy Cross of Agiasmati is a significant Byzantine-era church located near the village of Platanistasa in the Troodos Mountains.
The church dates back to the late 15th century and was built during the Venetian era as a monastery and spiritual centre for pilgrims. It is renowned for its exceptional frescoes, which are some of the finest examples of post-Byzantine art in Cyprus.
The church is dedicated to the Holy Cross, representing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Like other churches in the mountains, this one also features a steep-pitched, wooden roof. The simple exterior stone walls of the church stands in stark contrast with the richly adorned interior. The impressive frescoes cover the walls and ceiling with vibrant depictions of biblical scenes, the Passion of Christ, the Virgin Mary, the Twelve Apostles, and various saints.
Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Arakas
The Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Arakas, also known as Panagia tou Araka, is an important Byzantine monastery located near the village of Lagoudera in the Troodos Mountains.
The Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Arakas is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site titled ‘Painted Churches in the Troodos Region’, which includes several other churches and monasteries known for their exceptional frescoes and Byzantine architecture. The Monastery named after the Virgin Mary (Panagia) was founded in the late 12th century, during the Byzantine period and continued to be an important religious site throughout the Lusignan and Venetian periods.
The main church of the Monastery is a small, cross-in-square structure with a steep-pitched timber roof. Like the other mountain churches in the region, the exterior of the church is relatively modest, built of local stone with minimal decorative elements.
However the interior is adorned with stunning frescoes depict various scenes from the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and other saints, notable ones being the Dormition of the Virgin, the Presentation of the Virgin to the Temple, and the Crucifixion of Christ. The Last Judgment covers the western wall and the dome is adorned with an image of Christ surrounded by angels and prophets.
Finish visiting four churches since morning, we took a break from sightseeing and driving, and headed back to the village of Lagoudera where we had a delicious lunch and enjoyed local cuisine in a family run small restaurant. Read more about our flavourful food journey in Cyprus through our blog on food of Cyprus here.
Holy Church of Panagia of Asinou
After feed well and relaxed we haeded to our next attraction of the day - the Holy Church of Panagia of Asinou. Also known as the Church of Panagia Phorviotissa, the Holy Church of Panagia of Asinou is located near the village of Nikitari in the Troodos Mountains. The Holy Church of Panagia of Asinou is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site titled ‘Painted Churches in the Troodos Region’, which includes several other churches and monasteries known for their exceptional frescoes and Byzantine architecture.
The Church of Panagia of Asinou was built in the early 12th century, during the Byzantine period. It was founded by a nobleman named Nikiforos Ischyrios, who later became a monk at the monastery that was once attached to the church. The church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who is referred to here as Panagia Phorviotissa.
The Church of Panagia of Asinou is a small, single-aisle church built in the typical Byzantine style. It has a vaulted, timber roof covered with tiles. The church originally had a simple rectangular plan, but a narthex (entrance hall) was added in the 12th century, making the structure more complex. The exterior of the church is made of local stone, with relatively modest decoration, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The interior of the church has stunning frescoes painted over different periods, with the earliest dating back to the 12th century and the latest from the 14th century.
Insde the Church of Panagia of Asinou (Picture taken from google image, P.C - Gregski and Tim Carey)
When we arrived at the site, the entrance to the church was locked and the caretaker of the church was nowhere to be seen. We asked the only restaurant next to the church and we were suggested to go to the village of Nikitari where the caretakers lives, to collect the keys and come back to visit. So, we drove back to village but was unable to locate the house of the caretaker, people in villages in the Troodos Mountain area hardly speaks in English, which made out task of finding the caretaken even more header. After searching for a while we gave up and headed to our next destination of the day.
Images from inside the Church of Panagia of Asinou presented in this blog are taken from google images with due credit given to the photographers.
Church of the Virgin Mary of Podithou
The Church of the Virgin Mary of Podithou, also known as Panagia Podithou, is located near the village of Galata in the Troodos Mountains. The Church of the Virgin Mary of Podithou is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site titled ‘Painted Churches in the Troodos Region’, renowned for their exceptional frescoes and Byzantine architecture.
The Church of the Virgin Mary of Podithou was built in the early 16th century as a monastery, during the Venetian period in Cyprus. It was commissioned by Demetrios de Coron and his wife Helen, members of the influential de Coron family, who were prominent landowners in the area.
The Church of the Virgin Mary of Podithou is a single-aisle, vaulted structure with a steep-pitched timber roof covered with tiles. The church's architecture is relatively simple, with stone walls and minimal external decoration. The interior of the church have remarkable frescoes, which cover the walls and ceilings with vibrant depictions of biblical scenes, saints, and religious figures. Notable frescoes in the church include scenes from the life of Christ, such as the Crucifixion, the Resurrection, and the Ascension. The Virgin Mary is also prominently featured, with depictions of the Annunciation, the Nativity, and the Dormition of the Virgin.
Unfortunately, this church was also closed when we arrived. Though the timetable outside the church states the opening time as 9:30 am to 4pm, when we arrived at around 3:30 pm it was already closed.
After visiting six monasteries and churches dotted across the Troodos Mountain, we called it a day and headed to the summit of Troodos Mountains to our accommodation which is located in roughly the centre of the island. The winding roads and scenic roads passing through some lovely sleepy villages were a feast to the eye. As we hit higher altitudes it started to rain and we managed to check in into our hotel and then head out for some nice dinner.
Next morning we woke up to snow covered mountains! As the grit spreading gained momentum and the sun shone back, we checked out from the hotel kicked start our day five of Cyprus holiday.
Read the remaining part of our Cyprus adventure in the second part of our Cyprus travel diary.
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