The unique Peninsula Akamas is located in the northwestern part of Cyprus Island, 48 km from Paphos. A fabulous beautiful nature reserve, born of the nature itself, is pleasantly impressed by any tourist. Perhaps because of rare on the beauty of herbs and colors, which remained only on this peninsula, and once growing around Cyprus, the famous Homer called him - "the well-coined island of flowers." Clean keys are beaten from cleft, and even the islanders from nearby villages come here, to dial drinking water. A wonderful place, the air is carved by the flavors of the pine forest and wild herbs.

The story of Akamas is tightly connected with Greek mythology, for example, the myth of the waist, who defeated the Cretan monster - Minotaur with the help of the royal daughter Ariadna, in one of the modified options transfers us to Cyprus. The ship on which Teshev ran from the island of Crete with his beloved Ariad, her sister Fedra, as well as people whom he saved from the monster, a strong storm nailed to the coast of Cyprus. Tui hero had to leave Ariadna, who was pregnant and could not continue swimming with everyone. After some time, Teshess returned for his beloved and found out that Ariadna died during childbirth.

When Teshen returned to his native Athens, where he was king, he took Ariadna to his sister, who gave him two sons. Many years later, one of them - Akamas, who became famous for his dexterity and strength, changed the Tereus on the throne. The people thought so and loved her new king, which set him a monument in Athens.

There is even a hypothesis that there was a rather developed civilization in ancient times in ancient times, the center of which was Akamantida. But her traces have not yet discovered.

The origin of the name of the peninsula has long been interested in Cypriot researchers. According to their versions, the word "Akamas" means "Akavtos", i.e. non-aging. In favor of this version, the fact that Leontios Maharass is a famous Cypriot Chronist wrote about how Saracins (so the Europeans called the Arab conquerors), often attacked Cyprus, robbed and burned it. After one of these attacks, the island was totally raised dottel - only Mount Akamas remained.

The landscapes of Akamas are incredibly beautiful: petrified shells, parts of ceramic vessels that remind those existing in the ancient times of settlements, created many legends and legends. Their echoes can be found in such poetic names as: Rigaena Fortress, Amoros Fountain, Aphrodite Baths and many others.

Travelers who come to Cyprus are very popular with firmware bathing. As the myths say, it was in this place that the Baths of the Goddess of Love and Beauty took the baths, which is also called Cyprus. The love between Aphrodite and Adonis was born, but as well as ordinary mortals, the Gods of Olympus were jealous and envious. And the wonderful young man dies from the Russian Academy of Sciences inflicted by the Vepérem, who was sent by Artemida. Aphrodite, long mourning his beloved, turned it into a beautiful flower. From the blood of Adonis, roses flourish, from the tears of Goddess - Anemones.

Now the beautiful goddess resembles a swimming pool of Aphrodite - a small lake to the north-west of the coast, fueled by a mountain stream. Having washed in this stream, you can get eternal beauty, but it is forbidden to swim.

The Akamas Peninsula is the most amazing and wonderful place in Cyprus, where nature has been preserved in its original form. The peninsula is home to 168 species of birds, including a rare griffin vultte, and there you can see 20 types of reptiles, majestic mouflons, also pleases the eyes and a varied bright world of butterflies.

Every year, green (Caretta Caretta) and ordinary (Caretta Caretta) and ordinary (Caretta Caretta) and ordinary (Caretta Caretta) and ordinary (Caretta Caretta) are slipped into the dunes of Lara Beach. In the city of Paphos, an incubator-incubator has an artificial breeding station sea turtles. On the peninsula, constant work on the protection of reptiles is underway, the protection of their habitat, especially the places of breeding, nutrition and wintering.

There is a mysterious three-kilometer with its impressive caves on the lanam plateau. Regarding recently, a labyrinth was found in the Akamas forest at a depth of 70 meters, which only a few local shepherds knew about, but they were afraid to descend there because of its inaccessibility. The cave has two outputs that are currently closed for precaution.

To get into the caves, you need to go through one of the moves, a diameter of 3 meters, and then it is possible to spit for 30 meter lazes, after which the zigzag tunnel begins, which stretches 20 meters and where a person can stand in full growth.

Having passed another short distance, you find yourself in a gallery with great stalactites and stalagmites. This place is home to thousands of bats. It is difficult to present the surprise of researchers who descended to depth using special equipment and discovered a copper arrow tip and ancient clay dishes there. How these items found themselves in the cave, none of the researchers can understand, probably it will remain a mystery.
Public organizations and the state closely monitor the ACAMAS to prevent the onset of civilization on this unique corner Nature, driving an inheritance islanders from previous generations.

Peninsula is better to learn independently, on foot or on a bike, walking on the most beautiful in Cyprus tourist routes: "Aphrodite trail" and "Adonis trail" (both begin at the Aphrodite Bath). This type of rest is now very popular with foreigners. Map routes can be seized at the tourist information stations, as well as in the offices of the Cyprus organization on tourism.

Getting to Akamas, you can order.

From Paphos, we went to the Akamas Peninsula for the whole day, one of the most beautiful places in Cyprus. He is North Paphos, about an hour's drive away. About the trip itself in.

At home I thought, what part of Akamas to choose for a walk: oriental or western. On the western side there is a canyon Avakas - a narrow, scenic passage between high rocks. The photos of the canyon reminded me of the famous passage of Sik to the Jordanian Peter. For Avakas, there is a protected beach of Lara, on which the eggs of sea turtles are laying.

Peninsula Akamas: Map

From the eastern side of the Akamas Peninsula is a grotto called "Aphrodite's Bath", where, according to myths, Aphrodite spent time with Adonis. From the grotto inland the peninsula go hiking. One of the routes stretches along the seashore, rich numerous bays, and leads to Fontana Amarosa Bay, or Blue Lagoon. Water in the lagoon, indeed, amazing turquoise color.

Other trails rise to the mountains. One of them is called "Pipe Aphrodite" and leads to the top of the mountain of SOTIras, which offers a wonderful view of the peninsula and its numerous bays.

At the bottom of the "Aphrodite trail" connects to the "Adonis trail", which also goes in the mountains among the forest.

How to get from Paphos to Akamas

Travel agencies offer a tour for a whole day all over the peninsula. First, the jeeps bring to the canyon Avakas, then on Lara Beach, and then move to the east side, and everything ends with "Bathing Aphrodite" and fish restaurants in the village of Villach.

But we wanted to penetrate the punch of the peninsula. It was possible to take a car for the day (along the peninsula itself it is possible to drive only on jeeps), but for one day, the jeep rent was expensive, besides, it was embarrassed by the right-hand movement.

In general, we thought and chose the eastern coast of Akamas.

Girls working at the city bus station and at the same time collaborating with the travel agency Ruslan Travel, we instructed us in detail how to get there and gave a bus schedule.

First, it is necessary from the city bus station Harbor to take 618 bus to the center of the Upper Paphos (Car Bus Station). There is a 645 bus, which goes to the city of Polis. Frames sending a minibus No. 622 to the village of Lachi and Kupalni Aphrodite.

Sounds cumbersome, but buses docked with each other and, most importantly, a ticket for the whole day costs 5 euros. At first, we thought that the All-Day Ticket was valid only in Paphos itself (and our guide confirmed it), but the girls on the bus station said that it was valid in the entire area of \u200b\u200bPaphos Policy.

When landing in the first bus, the driver needs to ask "All-Day Ticket", and in the next buses show it when landing.

So, we arrived at the Upper Paphos, on Karavella's bus station.

Karavel Car Bus Station in Upper Paphos

It was Sunday. Whether on weekends in this area so deserted, or always, but the center of the upper pathos seemed to be extinct. We had about half an hour before the next bus, and we were wandering around the deserted streets, having met only two men who were sitting in an open cafe and at the same time screamed by terrible voices. We strained slightly: in all the signs there was a fight. But, coming closer, they saw that they simply play some desktop game and look quite good-natured.

And we came across on the closed mosque by Jami Kebir, formerly the first Church of Aya-Sofia.

Hyma-Sofia Church, or Mosque Jami Kebir

Soon the 645th bus came up, on which we went to the city of Polis. Before the policy we drove about 40 minutes and admired the surroundings.

The terrain around was mountainous, the wide green valley was spread down at the bottom, mountain ridge stretched away.

The slopes were broken by vineyards. Almond bloom. With the words "Blooming Almonds", I first always imagined a bright pink cloud, something like Sakura. It turned out that the flowers at the almond small, slightly pinkish. And the almonds look like light bright clouds on green slopes.

And the orange and tangerine groves began to be covered with fruit.

Our bus overcame the pass and began to descend to the sea. Sometimes the road was worn in a rock, and we drove along a narrow white-changing corridor with high rock walls around.

Rock corridor

In Polis, we moved to a minibus and 15 minutes drove along the sea. We passed the village of Villapti and soon came out at the final stop.

In addition to us, there were several more tourists in the minibus, so we all went together along the trail to the "Capalna Aphrodites".

First, there was a small garden with winding paths.

These are funny birdhouses

Raise above

The track of us led to a shady grotto with suede cliffs. On the rocks with thin jets flowed water and fell into a small petty lake.

This is how the swimming pool looks like.

Aphrodite trail

From the grotto, a well-groomed trail was moved, according to which we went on (according to the "Nature Trail" sign).

Cyclamen in February in Cyprus scattered on all slopes

At first they went along the shore, went on the road.

On the way, the jeeps sent to the Peninsula deeply from time to time.

It can be seen how the road passes along the edge of the peninsula

In especially beautiful placesah placed shops - for recreation and loving.

And - again cyclamen:

We decided that the lower way - along the sea to the blue lagoon - more suitable for the summer period, when you can examine bays found along the road and swim with each other case. And in the winter it is better to climb higher and look at Akamas from above.

Therefore, as soon as we met a path, leaving up, we went on it.

Here in this place we saved off the road and began to climb along the trail

First, we were surrounded by shrubs, rocks, squigs.

Cool serpentine

The distance was stretched by a hilly coast, each cove broken, and the blue lagoon highlighted by its color was clearly visible.

Then ahead was heard the ringing of the bubber, and we saw a flock of goats in front of them.

Cypriot goats - a separate topic. There is probably no such a variety of colors. One bizarre another. And brown with white asterisks, and mouse in apples, and pure Dalmatians. They crumbled on a steep slope among high grass, and the melodic ringing comes from them.

Multicolored gears of goats were crumbled throughout the slope.

And there are already visible cliffs.

Climb everything higher.

The trail goes down the hill and takes to the top of the Mount Solis (375 m - the height of this mountain).

Top - flat grassy glade. We approach the rocky edge.

Top Sotras, 365 m

Views from there open excellent. Only very windy.

From the top of the trail went down to a wide hollow with high pines. These pines were visible from afar, and we decided that they would arrange a snack under their spreaded crowns.

Descent from the top. Juniper

Along the trails met pointers and markers with kilometer.

That's just a route along the Trophe Aphrodite we, as it turned out, passed in the opposite direction, so now our kilometer decree: 3 km, 2, 1 ...

Soon we went to the hollow with pines. In the middle of the Polyana stood an abdomen of oak, behind him - a source.

Here is such an abdomen of oak!

It was a special place to relax and picnics, with drinking water and benches. A little away visited the ruins of the house.

On the clearing, we arranged a snack, a little rested.

Resting-place

The main path went down. And there was also a pointer to the Adonis trail. In this place, the oak trail is splitting: the right of the Aphrodite trail is left, the left is Adonis.

Trail Adonis

They decided to walk along the trail of Adonis. Also a picturesque route and vegetation, the relief differs from the previous one.

Aphrodite trail takes place in brighter, open places, there are more colors, brighter vegetation.

The Adonis trail passes through the junute and pine forest. Pines the wind gave the most fantastic postures, they are low, crab, some of them completely nourished to the ground.

Another equipped place of rest

There are cypresses and planenes, strawberry, myrth and pistachio trees.

On both routes, there are signs with a description of plants or geological types, such as "eroded territories", "limestone rocks", "Terpetinet tree".

On the trail Aphrodite more tourists. Adonis seems to be among the prosidasses we were alone, but from time to time they met local, who are climed on their jeeps in the most unexpected places.

Locals hunt here. Sounds of shots were heard on Mount, but here in the forest - especially often. Cartridges were lying on the trail. Here is a reserve.

Sleeves on the trail

Meanwhile, it would be time for us to go down to the village, because at 15-30, our minibus went to the policy.

And the trail and led and led us through the mountains.

In the end, we went out into the collaps, saw the sea again.

For some time, enveloped the plantation of nods, fenced with a grid. We saw from above how our minibus drove along the highway in the village.

Below - highway

Finally descended to the highway of meters for three hundred before the village and ran upstairs. At the very beginning of the village there is such a bougainvillery.

And next door to her - the nun.

We had time in time and after a while they went to the policy, exchanging with other tourists impressions. Returned to the policy about the same composition as they went here.

In the pathos arrived light.

Avakas Canyon

In the way I got acquainted with the elderly couple from Switzerland. They said that they had already visited the western side of Akamas and showed photos of Canyon Avakas.
How to get from Pafos to Avakas Canyon (Avakas Gorge)
At the bus station, Harbor should take 615 bus and get to the coral bay. There is a 616 bus and get to the final - to the Church of St. George. And from there walk along the sea to go to the canyon. Before the start of the canyon - the parking lot on which they leave their jeeps those who traveled to Avakasa on the jeeps (independent auto-travelers or organized groups, which bought the tour "Jeep Safari in the Akamas Peninsula").
Our new acquaintances passed to the end of the canyon and climbed upstairs. I was surprised. Usually in descriptions of the Avakos gorge, it was said that people reached the end of the canyon and returned back the same way.

No, there it turns out, you can get out upstairs, only "Very Strong", as the Swiss said. There is a trail on top of the canyon. They took the entire route 6 hours. They seemed to me the photo on the camera display - attractive.

I use cards on trips Tinkoff Black
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Tsarist Tombs in Paphos

Real connoisseurs of antiquity will definitely find what to look at Cyprus - undoubtedly, the tomb of the kings in the city of Paphos in the south-west of Cyprus. The majestic necropolis, the history of which is rooted deep into antiquity, became the last shelter for high-ranking persons and representatives of the aristocracy of distant times - it is worth only to imagine that the first tombs were outstanding from the stone in the 4th century to our era.

What are these grandiose creations?

• Underground rooms are joined directly inside the rocks and, connecting between themselves with stairs and transitions, form one huge complex.
• The burial is exactly repeated by the dwelling of the buried people - amazing copies of luxurious houses and palaces in which these noble personalities lived.
• All tombs in the necropolis are numbered for the convenience of finding visitors with the necessary of them.
• Next to each burial, you can find the clay jug, which was filled with wine, milk or honey, so that the deceased could "get satisfied." These gifts were placed in special ritual cameras located next to the tombs.

3. Peter Tu Romiou (25th km of road Paphos Limassol)

Aphrodite beach

On 25 kilometers of road leading from the city of Paphos in Limassol, the place is located, the history of which is shrouded in myths and legends - Peter Tu Romiou, or Aphrodite Beach. One of the most romantic attractions of Cyprus is a small portion of the rocky beach with beautiful boulders and purest water, which takes particular popularity among couples in love. It is believed that attenuating in these waters, lovers will forever stay together. Oakdating on the beach of Aphrodite at midnight, you can find eternal beauty and youth, successful marriage and healthy children. Also, according to beliefs, one of the major rocky stones - the Aphrodite stone - has a special force, and spending a certain ritual for him, you can subsequently meet real love.

On the beach of Peter, Tu Romiou can not only enjoy the beauty of nature, with its own eyes see well-known and memorable places, but also visit the cafe, located in the parking lot near the beach, on the opposite side of the road. You can also take a shower, to be purchased by local souvenirs or visit the restaurant with a stunning sea view, passing on the way a little further towards Limassol .

4. Akamas National Park (West Peninsula Akamas)

Promotional Beauty of Nature Park Akamas

About 50 kilometers from Paphos, beautiful panoramas of nature will open to your attention - unique landscapes with abundance of vegetation and purest beaches. This is another sight of Cyprus - Akamas National Park, a reserve, in which nature has been preserved in her pristine beauty. This is a region of coniferous forests, fading their aroma, pebble beaches and sandy bays with crystal clear water.

A wide variety of wild plants grows here, many of which remained only in this limited area:

• wild plum;
• arbutus;
• mirty tree;
• eastern Platan;
• mountain lavender;
• cyclamen;
• orchids;
• pink-purple peonies listed in the Red Book.

Surprises wealth and local fauna:

• 168 species of birds;
• 20 types of reptiles;
• 12 mammalian species;
• 16 types of butterflies.

The notable place of the peninsula - Avakas gorge, located among limestone rocks up to 30 meters high and stretching about 3 km long. On the bottom of the gorge flows a mountain river. This place is also worthy to visit, because even the path to it is interesting - in order to get into the gorge itself, you should pass about 2 kilometers along the reserve park, which smoothly, replacing the landscapes one by one, goes into a deep and narrow gorge, striking his eyes monumentality.

5. Catacombs of St. Solomonia (Paphos)

Catacombs of Saint Solomonia - Christian Shrine in Cyprus

Travelers who won a question that visit in Cyprus is given the opportunity to see one of the most unique Christian shrines - the catacombs of St. Solomonia. it ancient constructurePartly created by nature, partly a man. According to one of the believers, in the older times lived in Paphos, some righteous Solomoni, which refused to fulfill Roman rites and was forced to hide with his sons in the catacombs from the pursuers. According to one of the versions, the pagans littered all the go to the catacombs, condemned a woman for slow death, but after 200 years, when the moves in the catacombs were released, the Holy Martyr came out from there a whole and unharmed. According to another version, the sons of women were found after escape and executed, and Solomon's left alive, and the unfortunate days and nights drove in tears over the graves of their sons, in the end, dies from grief.

The first thing that opens by Catacomb visitors is a pistachio tree, completely fucked by multicolored flaps of the fabric. The fact is that visiting the catacombs, you can ask the holy stracon of healing from various ailments, and so that the prayers have been heard, a memorable flaskwork should be tied on the tree branches.

If you wish, you can take a walk in catacombs, as well as visit a small well in the depths of catacombs, in which the water in which has a healing force - heals from eye diseases.

Be sure to look this beautiful video about Cyprus!

6. Wine plant Keo Aliki (Limassol)

Cellar of the winery Keo Aliki

City Limassol, major economic and cultural Center countries are also considered to be the center of winemaking in Cyprus, and being here, you will not have to think that to visit in Cyprus . After all, it is here that you will have a unique opportunity to visit one of the largest plants in Limassol - Winzavod Keo. Excursion is held in the plant premises within the framework of an advertising campaign, so visitors are given a number of possibilities:

• observe the production of the best wines in the district;
• to taste any product completely free;
• hear some entertaining stories about the factory and about its products;
• buy good wine is noticeably cheaper than in the shops of all Cyprus.

One of the most famous alcoholic beverages produced at the KEA plant is premium wine "Commandoria" - the history of his first release dates back to another 8 century, and now it is considered one of the best wines of Cyprus. To produce this drink, a special grape variety is used - xinery, and the process of cooking wine also has its subtleties. Grapes are dried in the sun so that his juice gets sweetness, after which the juice merges into special vessels and is withstanding several years in them.

7. The show of the dancing fountains (Protaras)

Magic of fire, water and music of dancing fountains

One of the most spectacular attractions of Cyprus, amazing the imagination with its grandios, is located in the small resort town of Protaras. Every evening, magic jets come to life under rhythmic music, synchronously tamping the swell and performing extraordinary pyruets. All this accompanies the light laser show and all sorts of effects in the form of smoke and fire.

The show of dancing fountains is based on modern and one of the most complex fountain management systems throughout the world. As many as 18 thousand nozzles and many LED lamps, immersed in water, create a fascinating representation: Water jets, highlighted with multi-colored lights, continuously change their movements, obeying musical rhythms and creating an amazing atmosphere.

The show shares the attention of both adults and children, and you can observe this beauty from May 1 to September 30. Guests are offered to order a table in cozy cafe Directly next to the fountains or on special audience shops.

8. Eucalyptus Grove (Limassol)

Eucalyptus grove

Attracts in the seaside town of Limassol and another landmark of Cyprus - Eucalyptus Grove, stretching along the coast of approximately one and a half kilometers long. It is difficult to pass by the faded aromas of numerous eucalyptus trees growing right along the coastline, and do not enjoy this beauty. During the summer heat here, it is especially good to hide from the rays. flying Sun., and fragrant essential evaporations bring peace of mind and peace. In the rainy weather, Grove will also become a great place for walking, when the flavors of the trees are mixed with fresh air, rich in ozone - such a kind of "inhalation" will help strengthen health and increase immunity.

The park also has sports grounds, a children's playground. You enjoy a walk, you can visit a cafe or restaurant with a picturesque view of the sea - many such institutions are located along the eucalyptus grove. Guests also have the opportunity to move to one of the hotels located in close proximity.

9. National Forest Park "Kavo Greco" (Cape Greco)

Beautiful view of the Azure Sea

In the eastern part of Cape Greco, the Ayia Napa, a luxurious Kavo Greco Park is located, whose area is huge - more than 385 hectares. Initially, the goal of creating the park was preserving unique Flora, fauna and landscape of this part of the island. Later, another important mission was added to this goal - attracting more tourists to Cyprus.

As well as pristine natureHere you can meet comfortable picnic zones, bicycle paths and pedestrian trails with benches for recreation, offering excellent views of the coast, with its purest sea water. By the way, the coast here is ideal for diving and fishing - in coastal waters you can meet Mauren, octopuses, sea perch and fish-needle.

Today the national park inhabits

• about 4 hundred species of plants, 14 of which are considered extremely rare - juniper, acacia, mastic tree, fennel, wild garlic, etc.
• many fauna representatives - hedgehogs, foxes, hares, snakes, lizards and a variety of birds.

10. Fiickide Beach (Larnaca)

Beautiful beach Finikides in Larnaca

And what to see in Cyprus sunbathing lovers? The first thing worth to visit is, of course, the beach is Fiikuez, located right next to the central promenade of Larnaca. He refers to the number of the most popular beaches of Cyprus, so it occurs here the entire flight buses come here, they bring numerous tourists and just wanting to relax.

The very name "Finikides" means in the translation of "small palm trees" - indeed, from the city of the beach is separated by Palmovna Avenue, which was landed here in 1922. Once small palm trees have now turned into large trees, the beauty and greatness of which enthusiasm many visitors.

The length of the beach is about 0.5 kilometers, and the width in different places ranges from 30 to 100 meters. Sand on the beach of volcanic origin, so it has a grayish tint color. The Certificate "Blue Flag", which corresponds to Finikidees, confirms its cleanliness and security, and the service here meets the highest requests:

• rescuers are on duty throughout the territory;
• wORKING EQUIPMENTS;
• there is a sanitary zone;
• shower with fresh water;
• throughout the beach, perfect cleanliness is supported.

Sights of Cyprus: What else to visit, being in Cyprus

17. Pafos Fortress (Paphos)

View of the medieval fort on the western edge of the harbor from the city of Paphos

In the most extreme point in the west of the city, Paphos is a protective fort, which became one of the characters of this place. The uniqueness of the medieval construction is given to thick walls, followed by the ruins of the former fortress. The fort was built in the 13th century by the King of Cyprus - one of the representatives of the Lusignan dynasty. Initially, the castle consisted of two towers combined by a wall, but for centuries the construction was repeatedly destroyed by the invaders, suffered due to natural cataclysms, and after the new owners were restored. There was a Pafos castle and a prison, and a mosque, and even a salt warehouse. But the view that the fortress has these days, she gained in 1592, when it was renovated in Ottoman style. Today, this monument has the status of the museum - now for 20 years in a row, concerts of opera music and festivals are arranged here, among which the Festival "Aphrodite" is most famous.

18. Castle Colossi (10 km from Limassol)

Three-story Square Donta Tower in the castle of Colossi XII century in the Limassol area

Those who are interested in the sights of Limassol , it is worth visiting the castle of Colossi - a medieval military fortress about ten kilometers from Limassol. The construction erected at the beginning of the 13th century was once the center of the Knights-hospiters. Today, the castle of Colossi is most often referred to as a massive gear tower, but it is only part architectural complex. It strikes the thickness of its walls, which is 1.25 meters - this is precisely this factor and allowed the tower to withstand earthquakes and preserve to the present day. On the first floor of the tower, presumably, there was a pantry - so far you can see water tanks. At the second level there are two rooms, in one of which is a fireplace - most likely, there was a dining room. A large fresco is preserved to another of the rooms, where the scene of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the Licks of the Virgin and St. John is depicted. The third floor once served the functions of the Knight's hall and the personal chambers of the commander.

19. Buffaavento Castle (Northern Cyprus)

Ruins of the fortress walls of the Castle of Buffaavento in the Kyrenia Mountains in the north of Cyprus

Along northern coast The islands of Cyprus stretched the mountain chain - the Kyrenia Mountains. It is there, on the most vertices, at an altitude near a kilometer, three nice covered medieval castle - Holy Illarion, Cantar and Buffavento. As for Buffavento, this fortress was erected by Byzantines in the 7th century with the main goal - to protect against Arab raids. The place for the construction was chosen perfectly - from this height, the whole island was perfectly reserved. The fortress consists of two levels: the first began with a bastion, followed by a guard room - a fireplace was still preserved in it. The levels above are the ruins of the chapel, and the fascinating views of the chain of the Kyrenia Mountains open from here. The lock is impossible to attribute to a specific period of history - judging by the method of stone masonry, different levels of the castle were raised from the 7th century and completed up to the 14th century.

20. Kyrenia Castle (Northern Cyprus)

Kyrenia Castle Castle of the XVI century in the eastern part of the old harbor of Kyrenia in Northern Cyprus

Another significant bastion on the lands of Cyprus - Kyrenia Castle, towering over the old harbor ancient City Kyrenia, in the very north of Cyprus. As well as Buffaavento, Kyrenia castle was built in the 7th century for resistance to the invasions of the Arabs. The citadel has a rectangular shape with bastions located in the vertices. Such an architectural solution was so successful that the castle throughout the history never was taken storm. The courtyard is so extensive that sometime knightly tournaments were even held here. A visit to the inner premises of the castle will impress the story of which to this day is stored in these walls: the dungeons contained prisoners and according to legend, it was here that the Knights of the Order of the Templars were executed. Now in these places there is a museum of torture, impressive with its exhibits. On the territory of the castle there is also a shipwreck museum and a small Byzantine Church of St. George.

21. Church of the Holy Lazarus (Larnaca)

Church of the Holy Lazarus - the Orthodox Church of the IX century in the city of Larnaca

Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world rushed to one of the most important shrines in Cyprus - the Church of the Saint Lazarus, because everyone wants to touch the saint's relics, which, according to the Gospel, was resurrected by Christ three days after death. The wonderful resurrection then did not like the clergymen, and Lazar was forced to escape - Larnaca and became his face. After the death of the saint, the saint was buried at the base of the Covers, after which the temple was repeatedly rebuilt, and it was believed that the remains were irretrievably lost. Only in the 70s of the last century during the restoration, in the process of opening the stone tombs under the altar, the power was found - today they are the most valuable artifact and exhibited for universal worship. Among other values \u200b\u200bof the Temple - the burned wooden iconostasis with a miraculously survived St. Lazarus, the icons of St. Martyr George and the Virodtei of Odigitria.

Buildings of the Orthodox Monastery Kikkos in the picturesque mountains of Troodos in Cyprus

Taking in Cyprus to rent a car, you immediately acquire the possibility of a rich holiday that is not attached to the Regulations of common excursions. Having cars, you can visit the mountains and in picturesque bays, stroll through the old streets of mountain villages, see the ancient monasteries. By the way, in the mountains of Troodoza, you can find what to see in Cyprus by car - this is the Stavropigial Monastery of the Kikki Mother of God. The abode has always had a special role in the history of Cyprus - her brotherhood always sought to inspire people in the most difficult times. And in the walls of the monastery temple, the miraculous icon of the Kikki Mother of God is kept - according to the current reference, this is one of the three icons written by the apostle and evangelist Luka. This shrine is washed with a multitude of legends associated with its miracles - the Mother of God has repeatedly defended, saved from the trouble, and for a long time to this day, the icon in the period of the greatest tests are carried to the mountain Troni.

23. Ayia-Napa Monastery (Ayia Napa)

Ayia Napa Monastery courtyard in the center of the youth resort Ayia Napa
Monastery of the Virgin Napa XV century in the style of Italian Renaissance in Ayia Napa

Those who are looking for beautiful attractions of Cyprus, Ayia Napa will meet picturesque beaches with snow-white sand, fancy limestone cliffs and azure sea. But not only a developed beach infrastructure known a large seaside village is known - aia-napa monastery is located quite close to the coast, and once the history of the fishing plant began to be a modest at that time. The abode is located quite close to the coast, in the center popular resort. The history of the monastery began in the 14th century - gvorat, in those days at these places there were an impassable forest, where residents of nearby settlements hunted. One day, one of the hunters in the most often discovered a cave in which the old icon of Our Lady was kept. It was at this place that the church rose over time, and two more centuries later - and the monastery. The most valuable shrine of the monastery is a bedspread, transferred to the Savior of St. Veronica during the procession on Calvary.

24. Selimia Mosque in Nicosia (Northern Cyprus)

View of Selimie Mosque (former Cathedral of St. Sophia) from the Shakolas Tower (Ledry Observatory Museum) A.Savin

Already on the entrances to Nicosia, you can see the spiers of the Selimie mosque, built in the 13th century, but to this day impressive with their sizes and monumentality. The history of the Great Monument is extremely rich - the mosque was built a century and a half, and this process was accompanied by numerous disasters, repeatedly the construction was interrupted due to earthquakes and raids of Egyptian Mamlukov. Initially, the shrine was created as a Roman Catholic temple, but in the 16th century after the seizure of Cyprus, Osmans, the cathedral was converted into a grand mosque - the previous decoration was destroyed and painted, and two minaret were attached to the building. But today, marble tombstones of Cypriot kings are preserved, covered with carpets. The majestic mosque amazes the imagination of the carved entrance arch, bizarre windows, huge columns, gothic vaults, mosaics and bas-reliefs.

25. Ghost City Varosha (Northern Cyprus)

Quarter Varosha in Famagusta - Former tourist center in Cyprus Zairon
Abandoned hotels in Ghostka Varosha in Northern Cyprus Zairon

To be accurate, Varosha is not a city, but the area of \u200b\u200bthe city of Famagusta, which today belongs to the territory of the unrecognized state of Northern Cyprus. Once it was a thriving resort city with a 4-kilometer beach strip, new hotels, shops, markets, nightclubs and private villas. But in 1974, his prosperity was dramatically interrupted as a result of the state coup, when the walnut part of the local people rebelled, demanding the accession of Cyprus to Greece. And Turkey in order to protect the interests of the Turkish part has introduced troops from the north, and the Varosha district has become an extreme point of this offensive. So Cyprus was divided into two parts, the north remained the occupied Turkish troops, and the city of Varosha on the border began to act as buffer zoneprotected by UN troops. This place was abandoned by residents, and to this day hundreds of UN representatives guard the empty city.

26. Antique city of Kurion (Bishopi Bay)

The collapse of the ancient city of Kurion on the shore of the epickee near Limassol Anna & Michal

Just a few kilometers from historic Center Limassol, spreading along the bay antique city Curion. Once he was a major city-state - it was one thousand years before our era. During its existence, the city switched to possession of the Byzantines, Greeks, Romans, but after many centuries he began to decline - apparently, the starting point of this process was the destructive earthquake of the 4th century AD. And the city was finally abandoned in the 7th century as a result of the Arab invasions. Nowadays, the Curion is a major archaeological Museum With the ruins of several epochs - Hellenism, the Roman period and the early Christian era. Walking around the ruins will turn into a cognitive journey to the past - among the ruins you can see such objects as the house of Achilles and Evstolios, the Roman terms, the house of gladiators, the ancient theater, the ruins of the Basilica, the ruins of the nymphum, fragments of the mosaic.

27. The ancient city of Amatus (South of Cyprus)

Excavations of the ancient city of Amatus not far from Limassol Carole Raddato

Going to learn the sights of southern Cyprus , we must certainly visit another one of the ten preserved ancient cities in Cyprus. This is an ancient city of Amatus, with whom the mythology was closely intertwined - for example, there was an ancient sanctuary, which was one of the most important places of worship of the goddess Aphrodite, and today you can see the remnants of this structure. The city was equipped with in a convenient place On the coastal rock, on the coast of the natural harbor - this fact predetermined the rapid development of the city in the ancient period, trading with Greece and Levant through the local port. For centuries, the city has conquered Persians, Romans, Ptolemy, Byzantines, and at the end of the glorious history, the city was destroyed as a result of Arab invasions. Today in the territory of the ancient city you can see the ruins of the Acropolis, the remains of the Temple of Aphrodite, the market with rows of marble columns and ancient burials.

28. Aqueduct Kamares (Larnaca)

Stone Aqueduct Kamares or Bekira Aqueduct Pasha XVIII century on the outskirts of Larnaca in Cyprus

On the island of Cyprus, the sights of Larnaca occupy a special place - these are kilometers of magnificent beaches, ancient temples and fortresses, walking around the surroundings of which takes place for many centuries in the past. There are other valuable historical objects - such as Camares Aqueduct. This is a prototype of a modern water supply system, created in the 18th century, whose goal was to deliver water from the above source in Larnaca. Two centuries, the aqueduct successfully performed its important role, while in the 30s of the last century it was not replaced with a modern water supply system. Once Camares was beyond the city, but over the years, the city has grown and built up, and now the structure turned out to be in its very center. By the way, the urban government appreciates this monument and even created a special committee for its protection.

29. Castle of forty columns (Paphos)

Preserved Gate of the Byzantine Fortress VII century in the Archaeological Patus Pafos Wolfgang Sauber

Not far from the city of Paphos is another of the many fortifications of Cyprus, created to protect against the invasions of Arabs. This is the castle of forty columns, which is part of the archaeological complex. By the way, the existence of the castle was not known until the second half of the last century, when when processing land plotLocated above the port, a mosaic panel fragment was discovered. With further excavations, it turned out that it was only part of the archaeological treasure, which lies under the ground. It is believed that the castle is built in the 7th century by Byzantine, and in the 13th century he has undergone a cardinal reconstruction. However, the strongest earthquake on the root undermined all these works, destroying the fortress to almost the base. The fortress received its name thanks to the granite columns, which once supported her arch - it was they preserved to this day, along with the remains of the towers, gloomy dungeons and cellars.

30. Caravan Saray Beyuk-Khan (Northern Cyprus)

Fountain in the center of the open inland yard Caravan Saraj Beyuk-Khan in Cyprus

There are interesting places in Cyprus, storing the history of those years when Cyprus was located as part of the Ottoman Empire. One of them is a caravansery büyuk-khan - the largest Ottoman settlement in Cyprus, located in the north of Nicosia. The caravansery was built by Turks in the 16th century immediately after the victory, which they wanted the rules here before the Venetians. Earlier, there was a Palace of Luzignanov - it was on his ruins and a stories was built. There is no time to be a key to the key, then the inexhaustible stream of guests arrived here, providing prosperity of its owners. Since 1878, this territory was assigned to the British who organized a prison here, and after the Second World War Büyuk-Khan was equipped under the shelter for homeless. Today, this is the center of art, where there are galleries, workshops, shops with souvenirs, and the show the theater show shows here.

31. Milkitia settlement (Valley of the r. Maroni)

Reconstructed Circular Housing Huroccia between 7000 and 5800 BC. e. Ophelia2.

In the era of Neolithic, the Earth of Cyprus were also populated, and this fact is confirmed by the most ancient settlements found on the island. How could a person get to the lands of the island even before the seafling era? It is assumed that when Cyprus was part of the mainland, and only the strongest earthquake turned these territories to the island. Hurokatiya refers to Neolithic settlements of Cyprus, where people settled for another 7 millennia BC. A small group of people was only 300-600 people. They were engaged in cattle breeding, agriculture, hunting, fishing and erected round houses from stone or clay. At the site of an ancient settlement and today you can see the residues of the dwelling of the round shape, with the burials located under the scene, and defensive structures. Some of them restored, and visiting the settlement, today you can look inside one of them to find out how people lived many thousands of years ago.

32. Avagas Gorge (Laon Plateau)

River among the picturesque rocks in the gorge of Avagas on the plateau of the lan in Cyprus

There will be no journey to Cyprus and without beautiful nature - the island is rich in natural beauty, excellent landscapes and climate. Therefore, it is certainly worth visiting the natural attractions of Cyprus. The presentation of natural objects will be incomplete without avakas gorge, located 20 kilometers from Paphos. This natural creation of more than a thousand years ago was formed by the river flowing here, which over time he dried - now it was only a small stream on the day of the canyon. Avagas is a real paradise for hiking lovers, here they are waiting for exciting views, incredible abundance of flora, including plants endemics and endangered species. As the gorge passing the distance between its stone walls is gradually narrows, ultimately forming a narrow corridor, where stone romance hangs right on your head - a frightening, but fascinating sight.

Attractive landscape of FIG bay in the spa town Protaras in Cyprus Dronepicr

Protaras coastline is completely littered with small coves, but one of them stands out against the rest of the rest - this is the bay of FIG-three, or a fig tree bay. Today is popular place Rest, where many figs grow - they say, this is the only place in Cyprus with such a cluster of firing trees. Once the decoration of the bay was a giant fig tree - precisely from here and the name of the area went. Lovers of diving will be particularly interesting to explore the coastal underwater world - it contributes to the purest transparent water and a rich underwater world with mysterious marine caves. On the beach is offered a lot of entertainment - boating, water skiing, sailing, Volleyball, basketball, tennis, have numerous restaurants with traditional local dishes. The bay surrounds the string of hotels with different levels of service.

34. Nissi Beach Beach (Ayia Napa)

Famous Beach Nissi Beach inside the cozy bay in the resort of Ayia Napa in Cyprus

The Cyprus Resort of Ayia Napa is famous for its beaches, including the most popular - Nissi Beach, cozy and comfortable in a beautiful Mediterranean bay. Here every year comes incredible number Vacationers preferring noisy parties and a fun holiday in friends. Every day this place is filled with noise of discos, pleases the youth with a huge selection of entertainment. For example, during the daytime - riding on a banana, jumping with a parachute, snorkeling, in the evenings - incendiary dances, foam parties and beach competitions. Nissi Beach is also perfectly equipped for a comfortable stay - there are comfortable sun beds, umbrellas, cabins and showers, and azure water and soft sand are perfect for swimming. You can have a snack in any of numerous cafes and restaurants.

35. Cape Greco (southeast of Cyprus)

Sea caves at Cape Greco in the southeastern resort Ayia Napa Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz

In search of what to see in Cyprus in May , the route must necessarily include Cape Greco, which is considered one of the most beautiful places in Cyprus. This is a true oasis of serenity, located in the south-east of the island. Its territory is untouched lands that change their delicious appearance every season - it is no coincidence that in 1993 they were assigned the status of the National Park. Thus, the flora of the local park includes more than four hundred species of plants, including endemics and simply rare vegetation. Flowers are especially beautiful - in April-May, all this terrain blooms the most unimaginable paints, impressive brightness and beauty. In addition, at Cape Greco, hunting is completely forbidden, due to the need for protection local species Fauna - along with numerous foxes, hedgehogs and hares, more than 80 species of feathered, including migratory, as well as a huge variety of fantastic butterflies live here.

A trip to Cyprus can be compared with the present around the World Travel - Amazing how many monuments of nature, history and culture focused on one small island. Rest in Cyprus will allow not only to be distracted from everyday bustle and everyday worries, but also to plunge into another world, touched by the cultures of different eras.

Story history

One of the most mysterious and deserted places Cyprus is considered National Park Akamas. It is located at the city of Polis, and is a monument of nature and history, attracting great attention to himself.
The development of this territory began in ancient times. For the first time, this area is mentioned in one of the ancient Greek myths about the object, the winner of the Minotaur. Cyprus Stormy, the hero was forced to leave a pregnant Ariadna. One of the sons of Teresa, Akamas, the hero of the Trojan War, after expulsion from Athens settled in these places. It is thanks to Akamas here a large city was built here, and the peninsula was called in honor of him - Akamas. By the way, many historians still lead a dispute from where the name of the peninsula comes from. In the future, judging by the data of archeology, this area actively settled.
Rich nature, comfortable bays made the surroundings of modern polis especially attractive for the ancient settlers. In our time, the territories of the National Park Akamas became known several ancient cities and settlements of Greek, Roman, Byzantine periods.

National Park today

The Government of the Republic of Cyprus is very responsible for the protection natural Park. The legislation is forbidden to violate the nature of this place in any way. Interesting the fact that the disposal of the authorities with great love and care is performed by the Cypriots themselves. Public organizations, local residents from the city of Polis are very zealously followed by order on the territory of the reserve. And you are following what.
The National Park is located on a significant territory, part of which is limited by the sea. In the very National Park, Akamas live hundreds of different representatives of flora and fauna, many of them are unique.
The highlight of the park, like the whole island of Crete, is that it is located on the border of natural zones of Europe, Africa and Asia. In the park you can see the rare breed of griffins vultte, numerous and varied butterflies, the flock of wild goats in their natural medium.
The big work of the park employees is conducted with sea turtles. They are postponed on the shores owned by Akamas National Park in Polis hundreds of thousands of eggs. But predatory birds and marine creatures, allow you to survive the extremely small number of bugs that appeared on the light. There was a time when these reptiles were on the verge of a complete disappearance. Today, the polisters of nature are helping to restore the population of these wonderful animals. From the flora of the park you can highlight wonderful pink-purple peonies, which are listed in the Red Book of Cyprus.

Amazing nature polis

From natural objects, the park can be highlighted, first of all, the caves in the Avakas gorge. They were discovered relatively recently, and immediately became one of the most famous seats in the park. The fact is that these caves are drawn to many kilometers underground.
The nature of the Polis generously awarded these caves in stalactites and stalagmites of a beautiful form. Inside people inhabited by people, as evidenced by fragments of ceramics and copper arrow tip. Who were these people, what they did in the vicinity of the policy, to learn historians and archaeologists. All makes the Akamas National Park in an interesting place to visit tourists.

Akamas National Park is located on the eponymous Peninsula in the north-western tip of Cyprus, not far from the cities of Paphos and Polis. The area of \u200b\u200bthe reserve is about 230 square meters. km. The mysterious park is saturated with the ancient Greek mythology and the picturesque beauty of nature.

In the reserve you can meet endemic plants (Akamas Pachack, local cycles and buttercups): Officially - 39 of 128 rare species in Cyprus. Frequently found representatives of the fauna of the Peninsula - Fruit Bats, Foxes, Wild Goats, Earthowing, Vulture, Cypriot Owls, Sea Turtles.

History of the reserve Akamas.

The development of the peninsula began long before our era. The first mention of the reserve is found in the myth about the famous experience, which won the Minotaur. The peninsula is named after the Son of Tenese - Akamas, the hero of the Trojan War, who settled here after expulsion from Athens.

This served the beginning of the area of \u200b\u200bthe park. A favorable climate and convenient location near the sea were attracted here many people, the settlements became more and more. According to the finds of archaeologists there were several cities of Greek, Roman and the Byzantine periods.

Panorama in Akamas Park with mountain road - Google Maps.

Nowadays, the Government of the Republic of Cyprus and the inhabitants of the island themselves are very careful about the environmental territory. Local laws prohibit in any way to violate the nature of the park. Employees of the Akamas Park lead work with sea turtles, the population of which was previously on the verge of extinction.

What to see

The territory of the reserve includes places known worldwide. Each of them is a unique attraction associated with the religion of the ancient Greeks and the characters of myths. If you are lucky here, it is recommended to visit them all. This is enough for it, complete which can be delicious dinner in the fishing village.

Bathing Aphrodite

Aphrodite bathing is a natural cave filled with water natural source located in the northeastern part of Akamas. According to myths, the goddess of Aphrodite took the bath here and met with an ordinary shepherd - Adonis, who, however, is divine beauty.

It is believed that swimming here rejuvenates the body, but it will not be easy to check it. Before the entrance hangs a warning that it is forbidden to swim here, but you can wash it. Further along the path you can see the fountain of love - a good place to visit with your second half.

Aphrodite trail

The attraction is a three-time path with a three-minute trail. According to the legend, the trail appeared when the grass and stones began to retreat on the parties to the goddess that took place here. On the trail, she met Adonis, and under the centuries-old oak, standing on the side of the road, they attached love.

If you go along the path without turning, you will come to the point from which the path began. During the walk, you can see goats, descendants for whom Adonis followed. The shops are arranged throughout the path, with each of which you can enjoy fabulous romantic landscapes, here it is also worth bringing a soul mate.

Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon, perhaps the most famous landmark of the Akamas National Reserve. The bay framed by rocks is one of the most beautiful swimming places in Cyprus. The water is blue and very clean - the bottom is excellent, snorkeling and swimming is very popular here.

It is recommended to sail or go here early, tourists love this place very much, the day of them there are thousands. Lovers walk on foot either will not be disappointed: the lagoon is located 4.6 km from Pouched Aphrodite, if you go along the sea to the northwest.

Beach Lara.

Lara Turtle Beach (Lara Beach) - the guarded coast of the bay of the same name in the southern part of Akamas Park. There is an incubatoria for rare sea turtles, where you can learn more about them. Reptiles are guarded well, the masonry of eggs of the turtles are struck so that no one comes, and in the peak of the laying season, the swimming pool is generally closed for visitors.

The beach coastline is very comfortable for swimming - the purest water and a pleasant to the touch sand, a gentle inlet and gradual depth of depth. However, the umbrellas are prohibited and there is no infrastructure at all, there will have to forget about the resort service.

Avakas Gorge

There is a gorge Avakas 5-6 km from Lara Beach. The place is great for fans of active walking tourism and complex routes. The height of the rocks is about 30 m here, the distance between them is small. Here you can see the famous minotauria labyrinth, however, without special equipment and skills alive, not going there.

The route by the gorge will be approximately 3 km. It begins with signs of danger that lifters you ahead, which, by the way, should be taken into account. It is not recommended to go to the gorge with children and in shoes with soft or poorly fixed (slap, sandals) sole - you simply will not be able to move around the stones.

How to get to the Akamas National Reserve

Between the nearest to the park Akamas cities have a message public transport. You can drive to the reserve on the Peninsula Akamas from the policy by bus number 622, it stops near the Aphrodite bathing. There are no direct routes from pathos, but you can get to the policy by bus number 610.

By car, the car will not get from both nearby cities, however, the usual car does not pass here. Need a high-wheel drive machine with high suspension or quad bike. If there is no such transport, then you can rent, in Cyprus it is a very popular service.

Route by car from Pafos to National Reserve Akamas in Cyprus - Google Maps

Also from any pier can float on a rented motor boat or even a yacht. Transfer in Cyprus is carried out on a taxi, here they work as Russian taxoparks - Kiwi Taxi and Cyprus Taxi and the popular international service GetT.

Video "Akamas National Park from height"