Nature reserve in the eastern part of the island of cyprus. Cyprus

From Paphos we drove for the whole day to the Akamas Peninsula, one of the most beautiful places in Cyprus. It is located north of Paphos, about an hour's drive from it. About the trip itself to.

Even at home, I wondered which part of Akamas to choose for a walk: east or west. On the western side is the Avakas Canyon - a narrow, picturesque passage between high cliffs. Photos of the canyon reminded me of the famous Siq pass to Jordanian Petra. Behind Avakas there is a protected Lara beach, where sea turtles lay their eggs.

Akamas peninsula: map

On the eastern side of the Akamas Peninsula is a grotto called "Baths of Aphrodite", where, according to myths, Aphrodite spent time with Adonis. Hiking trails leave the grotto deep into the peninsula. One of the routes stretches along the seashore, skirting numerous bays, and leads to the bay of Fontana Amarosa, or the Blue Lagoon. The water in the lagoon is really amazing turquoise color.

Other trails climb mountains. One of them is called "the path of Aphrodite" and leads to the top of Mount Sotiras, from which a wonderful view of the peninsula and its many bays opens.

At the bottom, the "Aphrodite trail" connects with the "Adonis trail", which also goes through the mountains among the forest.

How to get from Paphos to Akamas

Travel agencies offer full day tours throughout the peninsula. First, they are taken by jeeps to the Avakas canyon, then to Lara Beach, and then they move to the east side, and everything ends with the "bath of Aphrodite" and fish restaurants in the village of Latchi.

But we wanted to penetrate deep into the peninsula. It was possible to take a car for a day (you can only drive through the peninsula by jeeps), but for one day, renting a jeep was expensive, and besides, right-hand traffic was embarrassing.

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

The girls working at the city bus station and at the same time cooperating with the Ruslan Travel travel agency gave us detailed instructions on how to get there and gave us a bus schedule.

First you need to get from the city bus station Harbor by bus 618 to the center of upper Paphos (Karavella bus station). There, change to bus 645, which goes to the city of Polis. Minibus 622 departs from Polis to the village of Latchi and the "Baths of Aphrodite".

It sounds cumbersome, but the buses are docked with each other and, most importantly, a full day ticket costs € 5. At first we thought that the “all-day ticket” was valid only in Paphos itself (and our guide confirmed it), but the girls at the bus station said that it was valid throughout the entire Paphos-Polis area.

When boarding the first bus, you need to ask the driver for an “all-day ticket”, and in the next buses, show it when boarding.

So, we arrived in upper Paphos, at the Karavellou bus station.

Karavella bus station in upper Paphos

It was Sunday. Either on weekends this area is so deserted, or always, but the center of upper Paphos seemed extinct. We had about half an hour until the next bus, and we wandered through the deserted streets, meeting only two men who were sitting in an open cafe and shouting in terrible voices at the same time. We tensed a little: by all indications, a fight was outlined. But, coming closer, we saw that they were just playing some kind of board game and looked quite good-natured.

We also came across the closed Jami Kebir mosque, which was formerly the Hagia Sophia church.

Hagia Sophia Church, or Jami Kebir Mosque

Soon the 645th bus arrived, on which we went to the city of Polis. We drove to Polis for about 40 minutes and admired the surroundings.

The area around was mountainous, a wide green valley stretched below, a mountain range stretched in the distance.

Vineyards were laid out on the slopes. Almonds were blooming. When I said “almond blossoms,” I always imagined a bright pink cloud, something like sakura. It turned out that the flowers of the almonds are small, slightly pinkish. And almonds look like light light clouds on green slopes.

There were also orange and tangerine groves strewn with fruit.

Our bus overcame the pass and began to descend to the sea. Sometimes the road was cut into the rock, and we drove along a narrow white-stone corridor with high rock walls on the sides.

Rock corridor

In Polis, we switched to a minibus and drove for about 15 minutes along the sea. We passed the village of Latchi and soon got out at the final stop.

In addition to us, there were several other tourists in the minibus, so we all headed along the path to the "bath of Aphrodite".

First, a small garden with winding paths appeared on the way.

These are such funny birdhouses

We rise higher

The path led us to a shady grotto with mossy rocks. Water flowed down the rocks in thin streams and fell into a small, shallow lake.

This is what the Baths of Aphrodite looks like.

Trail of aphrodite

A well-groomed path left the grotto, along which we went further (according to the sign "Nature trail").

Cyclamens in February in Cyprus are scattered on all slopes

First we walked along the coast, went out onto the road.

From time to time, jeeps drove along the road, heading deeper into the peninsula.

The road is seen along the edge of the peninsula

In especially beautiful places there are benches for rest and admiring.

And - again cyclamens:

We decided that the lower path - along the sea to the Blue Lagoon - is more suitable for the summer period, when you can explore the bays along the road and swim at every opportunity. And in winter, it's better to climb higher and look at Akamas from above.

Therefore, as soon as we met a path going up, we went along it.

Here in this place we left the road and began to climb the path

At first we were surrounded by bushes, rocks, driftwood.

Steep serpentine

A hilly coast stretched in the distance, every cove was visible, and the Blue Lagoon was clearly visible, distinguished by its color.

Then we heard bells ringing ahead of us, and we saw a herd of goats in front of us.

Cypriot goats are a separate topic. There is probably no such variety of colors in any herd. One is more bizarre than the other. And brown with white stars, and mice in apples, and pure Dalmatians. They scattered along a steep slope among the tall grass, and a melodic ringing emanates from them.

The goats scattered like colored grains of sand all over the slope.

And the pre-summit rocks are already visible.

We rise higher and higher.

The trail goes around the hill and leads to the top of Mount Sotiras (375 m - the height of this mountain).

The summit is a flat grassy meadow. We approach the rocky edge.

Summit Sotiras, 365 m

The views are excellent. Only very windy.

From the top, the trail descended to a wide hollow with tall pines. These pines were visible from afar, and we decided that we would have a snack under their spreading crowns.

Descent from the top. Juniper

There were signs and markers with mileage along the trail.

Here are just the route along the path of Aphrodite, we, as it turned out, went in the opposite direction, so now our mileage was decreasing: 3 km, 2, 1 ...

Soon we came out to a hollow with pine trees. In the middle of the clearing stood a spreading oak tree, behind it - a spring.

Here is such a spreading oak!

It was a special place for relaxation and picnics, with drinking water and benches. The ruins of a house could be seen a little to the side.

We had a snack in the clearing and had a little rest.

Resting-place

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

Adonis trail

We also decided to walk along the Adonis trail. It is also a picturesque route and differs from the previous one in terms of vegetation and relief.

The trail of Aphrodite passes through lighter, open places, there are more flowers, brighter vegetation.

The Adonis Trail runs through a juniper and pine forest. The wind gave the pines the most fantastic poses, they are short, stumpy, some of them are completely bent to the ground.

Another well-equipped resting place

There are cypresses and plane trees, strawberry, myrtle and pistachio trees.

On both routes, there are signs describing plants or geological types, for example "Eroded Areas", "Limestone Rocks", "Terpentine Tree".

There are more tourists on the Aphrodite trail. At Adonis, it seems, we were alone from the newcomers, but from time to time we met locals who climb in their jeeps to the most unexpected places.

The locals hunt here. The sounds of shots were heard on the mountain, but here in the forest - especially often. The trail was littered with cartridges. So much for your reserve.

Sleeves on the trail

Meanwhile, it would be time for us to go down to the village, since at 15-30 our minibus departed for Polis.

And the path kept leading and leading us through the mountains.

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

For some time they went around the prickly pear plantation, fenced with a net. From above they saw how our minibus drove along the highway to the village.

Below is the highway

Finally we went down to the highway about three hundred meters in front of the village and ran upstairs. At the very beginning of the village, there is such a bougainvillea.

And next to it - prickly pear.

We made it in time and after a while we were already going to Polis, exchanging impressions with other tourists. We returned to Polis in about the same composition as we drove here.

We arrived in Paphos before dark.

Avakas canyon

On the way we met an elderly couple from Switzerland. They said that they had already visited the western side of the Akamas and showed photographs of the Avakas canyon.
How to get from Paphos to Avakas Gorge
At the Harbor bus station, you need to take bus 615 and get to Coral Bay. There, change to bus 616 and get to the final one - to the Church of St. George. And from there walk along the sea to the canyon. Before the beginning of the canyon there is a parking lot where those who got to Avakas by jeeps leave their jeeps (independent auto-travelers or organized groups who bought the tour "Jeep Safari on the Akamas Peninsula").
Our new acquaintances went to the end of the canyon and climbed up. I was surprised. Usually, descriptions of the Avakos gorge said that people reached the end of the canyon and returned back the same way.

No, there, it turns out, you can climb up, only "very strong", as the Swiss woman said. There is a trail along the top of the canyon. The whole route took them 6 hours. They seemed to me a photo on the camera display - attractive.

I use the map when traveling Tinkoff black
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Cyprus (Greek Κύπρος, tour. Kıbrıs, English Cyprus) is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and the third most populous island. Geographically belongs to Asia. Cyprus is located in the eastern Mediterranean at a distance of 380 km from Egypt, 105 km from Syria and 75 km from Turkey. Most of the island is occupied by mountains. The Kyrenia mountain range stretches along the northern coast in a latitudinal direction. Its width in the western part is 15 km, to the east it expands to 25-30 km. The western part of the Kyrenia ridge is higher; some peaks exceed 1 thousand m. The highest point of the ridge is Mount Akromanda (1023 m). The southwestern half of the island is occupied by the wide Troodos mountain range, indented by longitudinal river valleys. The highest is its northern part, here is the highest point of Cyprus - Mount Olympos (1952 m).

Cape Greco, sometimes Capo Greco (from Italian Capo Greco - Greek cape), also known as "Kavo Greco" (Greek Κάβο Γκρέκο) - a cape in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus, is the southern end of Famagusta Bay and the eastern end of Ayia Bay -Naps. Cape Greco is the easternmost point of the island of Cyprus,

Reserve "Akamas" (Polis, Cyprus) - exact location, interesting places, inhabitants, routes.

• Tours for May to Cyprus
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Reserve "Akamas" is an amazing natural and historical monument of Cyprus, attracting a lot of attention. It invites its guests to get acquainted with the world of plants, the rarest species of birds and many animals. In addition, the reserve is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, which only adds to its significance. Travelers visit these places in search of aesthetic pleasure, natural harmony and amazing panoramas, the virgin beauty of the local nature fully satisfies these needs.

Researchers to this day do not know what happened in the reserve to this day, and how it appeared in general. Many find the answer to mythology - according to one of the legends, after Akamas (Theseus' son) was driven out of Athens, he settled here and built a beautiful city, naming it after himself. And soon Aphrodite herself became the patroness of this place. History is silent about further events. Today, the authorities and local residents are doing all they can to protect the reserve. There are even special organizations that keep order around the clock.

What to see

A huge interest is a park with an area of ​​230 sq. km represents from a scientific point of view, because over 500 species of plants grow in it, more than 100 of which are found only here. In spring, the surrounding lands turn into a real garden with fragrant jasmine flowers and orchids, their aroma permeates the air for tens of kilometers, and butterflies flutter around, 16 of 25 species of which are listed in the Red Book.

The local fauna is no less impressive. Particularly noteworthy are the Vultura griffins - the rarest birds of prey that moved here relatively recently. In addition to birds, wild goats live in this part of the island, grazing on the hills, and mammals and amphibians live closer to the water and in the gorges. By the way, you should be very careful when exploring the park, because poisonous snakes are not uncommon here.

On the picturesque sandy beach "Lara" you can take a break from a long walk and swim. The endangered sea turtles nest on the coast. Often, tourists watch how little turtles, just born, run to the waves.

There are several attractions in the reserve - Adonis trail, Aphrodite trail and baths, Avakas canyon. Their visit is part of excursions, including jeep tours, but independent cycling trips are also popular. A sports or mountain bike will make an excellent company and will allow you to visit the most secluded corners of the Akamas.

Practical information

How to get there: the park is located near the city of Polis, which is most conveniently accessible from Paphos. Buses on lines 645 and 705 leave daily from the Karavella bus station at Andrea Geroudi Street. And from Polis directly to the reserve there is a route taxi number 622.

True connoisseurs of antiquity will definitely find what to see in Cyprus - undoubtedly the Tombs of the Kings in the city of Paphos in the southwest of Cyprus. The majestic necropolis, whose history of creation goes back to antiquity, became the last haven for dignitaries and representatives of the aristocracy of distant times - one has only to imagine that the first tombs were carved out of stone in the 4th century BC.

What are these grandiose creations?

• The underground rooms are carved right inside the rocks and, connected by stairs and passages, form one huge complex.
• The burials exactly repeat the dwellings of the buried people - amazing copies of the luxurious houses and palaces in which these noble personalities lived.
• All tombs in the necropolis are numbered for easy search by visitors of the desired one.
• Next to each burial one can find an earthen jug, which was filled with wine, milk or honey so that the deceased could "get enough". These gifts were placed in special ceremonial chambers located next to the tombs.

3. Petra tou Romiou (25th km of the Paphos-Limassol road)

On the 25th kilometer of the road leading from Paphos to Limassol, there is a place whose history is shrouded in myths and legends - Petra tou Romiou, or Aphrodite's Beach. One of the most romantic sights of Cyprus is a small stretch of rocky beach with beautiful boulders and clear water, which is especially popular among couples in love. It is believed that after swimming in these waters, lovers will remain together forever. Swimming in the Beach of Aphrodite at midnight, you can find eternal beauty and youth, a successful marriage and healthy children. Also, according to legends, one of the large rocky stones - the stone of Aphrodite - has a special power, and after performing a certain ritual around it, you can subsequently meet true love.

On the Petra tou Romiou beach, you can not only enjoy the beauty of nature, see famous and memorable places with your own eyes, but also visit a cafe located in a parking lot near the beach, on the opposite side of the road. Here you can also take a shower, shop for local souvenirs or visit a restaurant with stunning sea views, driving a little further along the road towards Limassol .

4. Akamas National Park (western Akamas Peninsula)

About 50 kilometers from Paphos, beautiful panoramas of nature will open to your attention - unique landscapes with an abundance of vegetation and pristine beaches. This is another attraction of Cyprus - Akamas National Park, a nature reserve in which nature has been preserved in its pristine beauty. This is an area of ​​coniferous forests, intoxicating with their aroma, pebble beaches and sandy coves with crystal clear waters.

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

• wild plum;
• arbutus;
• myrtle tree;
• eastern plane tree;
• mountain lavender;
• cyclamens;
• orchids;
• pink-purple peonies listed in the Red Book.

The local fauna is also surprising with its wealth:

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

A notable place on the peninsula is the Avakas gorge, located among limestone rocks up to 30 meters high and stretching about 3 km in length. A mountain river flows along the bottom of the gorge. This place is also worth visiting, because even the path to it is interesting - in order to get into the gorge itself, you have to walk about 2 kilometers through the reserved park, which smoothly, changing landscapes one after another, turns into a deep and narrow gorge, striking the eye with its monumentality.

5. Catacombs of Saint Solomon (Paphos)

Travelers wondering what to visit in Cyprus are given the opportunity to see one of the most unique Christian shrines - the Catacombs of Saint Solomon. This is an ancient structure, partly created by nature, partly by man. According to one of the beliefs, in ancient times a certain righteous Solomonia lived in Paphos, who refused to perform Roman rites and was forced to hide with her sons in the catacombs from the persecutors. According to one version, the pagans walled up everything in the catacombs, condemning the woman to slow death, but 200 years later, when the passages in the catacombs were freed, the holy martyr came out safe and sound. According to another version, the sons of the woman were found after fleeing and executed, and Solomon herself was left alive, and the unfortunate day and night whiled away in tears over the graves of her sons, eventually dying of grief.

The first thing that opens to the visitors of the catacombs is a pistachio tree, completely hung with multicolored scraps of fabric. The fact is that when visiting the catacombs, you can ask Saint Solomon for healing from various ailments, and in order for prayers to be heard, a memorial piece should be tied on the branch of a tree.

If you wish, you can walk through the catacombs, as well as visit a small well in the depths of the catacombs, the water in which has healing power - it cures eye diseases.

Be sure to watch this beautiful video about Cyprus!

6. Keo Aliki Winery (Limassol)

The city of Limassol, a major economic and cultural center of the country, is also considered the center of winemaking in Cyprus, and being here, you will not have to think about what to visit in Cyprus. . After all, it is here that you will have a unique opportunity to visit one of the largest factories in Limassol - the Keo winery. The tour is held in the premises of the plant as part of a promotional campaign, so visitors are given a number of opportunities:

• watch the production of the best wines in the area;
• to taste any product completely free of charge;
• hear some interesting stories about the plant and its products;
• buying good wine is much cheaper than in shops all over Cyprus.

One of the most famous alcoholic beverages produced at the Keo factory is the Commandoria premium wine - the history of its first production dates back to the 8th century, and now it is considered one of the best wines in Cyprus. For the production of this drink, a special grape variety is used - Xynisteri, and the process of making wine also has its own subtleties. The grapes are dried in the sun so that their juice acquires sweetness, after which the juice is poured into special vessels and aged in them for several years.

7. Show of dancing fountains (Protaras)

One of the most spectacular sights of Cyprus, striking the imagination with its grandeur, is located in the small resort town of Protaras. Every evening here magical streams come to life to rhythmic music, synchronously soaring upward and performing extraordinary pirouettes. All this is accompanied by a laser light show and all kinds of effects in the form of smoke and fire.

The Dancing Fountain Show is based on one of the most sophisticated fountain control systems in the world. As many as 18 thousand nozzles and many LED lamps immersed in water create a mesmerizing performance: water streams, illuminated by multi-colored lights, continuously change their movements, obeying musical rhythms and creating an amazing atmosphere.

The show attracts the attention of both adults and children, and you can watch this beauty from May 1 to September 30. Guests are invited to book a table in a cozy cafe directly next to the fountains or at special spectator benches.

8. Eucalyptus grove (Limassol)

Another attraction of Cyprus attracts to the seaside town of Limassol - the eucalyptus grove, which stretches along the coast for about one and a half kilometers in length. It is difficult to pass by the intoxicating aromas of the numerous eucalyptus trees growing right along the coastline and not enjoy this beauty. During the summer heat, it is especially good here to hide from the rays of the scorching sun, and aromatic ethereal vapors bring peace and tranquility. In rainy weather, the grove will also be a great place for walking, when the aromas of the trees are mixed with fresh air saturated with ozone - this kind of "inhalation" will help to strengthen health and increase immunity.

The park also has sports grounds, a children's playground. After enjoying a walk, you can visit a cafe or restaurant with a picturesque view of the sea - there are many such establishments along the eucalyptus grove. Guests also have the opportunity to check into one of the hotels located in the immediate vicinity.

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

In the eastern part of Cape Greco, also called Ayia Napa, there is a luxurious reserve park Kavo Greco, whose area is huge - more than 385 hectares. The original purpose of the park was to preserve the 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.

Along with the pristine nature, here you can find landscaped picnic areas, bike paths and hiking trails with benches for relaxation, from where you can enjoy excellent views of the coast, with its purest sea water. By the way, the coast here is ideal for diving and fishing - in the coastal waters you can find moray eels, octopuses, sea bass and igloo fish.

Today the national park is inhabited by

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

10. Finikoudes beach (Larnaca city)

And what to see in Cyprus for sunbathers? The first thing worth visiting is, of course, Finikoudes Beach, located right next to Larnaca's central promenade. It is one of the most popular beaches in Cyprus, so from time to time whole regular buses come here, bringing numerous tourists and just those who just want to have a good rest.

The very name “finikoudes” means “small palms” in translation - indeed, the beach is separated from the city by a palm alley, which was planted here back in 1922. The once small palms have now become large trees, the beauty and grandeur of which delights many visitors.

The length of the beach is about 0.5 kilometers, and the width in different places ranges from 30 to 100 meters. The sand on the beach is of volcanic origin, so its color has a grayish tint. The "Blue Flag" certificate, which Finikoudes corresponds to, confirms its purity and safety, and the service here meets the highest demands:

• lifeguards are on duty throughout the territory;
• equipment rental works;
• there is a sanitary zone;
• shower room with fresh water;
• perfect cleanliness is maintained throughout the beach.

Attractions of Cyprus: what else to visit while in Cyprus

17. Fortress of Paphos (Paphos)

At the most extreme point in the west of the city of Paphos, a defensive fort is located, which has become one of the symbols of this place. The uniqueness of the medieval building is given by thick walls, behind which you can visit the ruins of a 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 united by a wall, but over the centuries the building was repeatedly destroyed by invaders, suffered from natural disasters, and then was restored by new owners. There was a Paphos castle and a prison, and a mosque, and even a salt warehouse. But the look that the fortress has today, it acquired in 1592, when it was restored in the Ottoman style. Today, this monument has the status of a museum - for 20 years in a row, opera concerts and festivals have been held here, among which the most famous is the Aphrodite festival.

18. Kolossi Castle (10 km from Limassol)

For those who are interested in the sights of Limassol , it is worth visiting the Kolossi Castle - a medieval military fortress about ten kilometers from Limassol. The structure, erected at the beginning of the 13th century, was once the center of the Knights Hospitallers. Today, Kolossi Castle is most often referred to as a massive crenellated tower, but it is only a part of the architectural complex. The thickness of its walls, which is 1.25 meters, is striking - it is this factor that allowed the tower to withstand earthquakes and survive to this day. On the first floor of the tower, presumably, there was a storage room - you can still see tanks for water there. On the second level there are two rooms, one of which has a fireplace - most likely there was a dining room. In another of the rooms, a large fresco has been preserved, which depicts the scene of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the faces of the Virgin and St. John. The third floor once served as a knight's hall and the Commander's private quarters.

19. Buffavento Castle (North Cyprus)

Along the northern coast of the island of Cyprus, there is a mountain range - the Kyrenia Mountains. It was there, on the very peaks, at an altitude of about a kilometer, that three glorious medieval castles were hidden - St. Hilarion, Cantaru and Buffavento. As for Buffavento, this fortress was erected by the Byzantines back in the 7th century with the main purpose of protecting it from Arab raids. The place for the construction was chosen ideally - from this height the whole island was perfectly observed. The fortress consists of two levels: the first began with a bastion, followed by a guard room - a fireplace is still preserved in it. Above, there are the ruins of a chapel, and from here you can also see mesmerizing views of the Kyrenia mountains chain. The castle cannot be attributed to a specific period of history - judging by the way of masonry, different levels of the castle were built from the 7th century and were completed up to the 14th century.

20. Kyrenia Castle (North Cyprus)

Another significant bastion in the lands of Cyprus is the Kyrenia Castle, towering over the old harbor of the ancient city of Kyrenia, in the very north of Cyprus. Like Buffavento, Kyrenia Castle was built in the 7th century to resist Arab invasions. The citadel is rectangular in shape with bastions located at the tops. Such an architectural solution was so successful that the castle was never taken by storm throughout history. The courtyard is so vast that once it even hosted knightly tournaments. A visit to the inner premises of the castle will impress with the history, the spirit of which is kept within these walls to this day: captives were kept in the dungeons and, according to legend, it was here that the Knights of the Templar Order were executed. Now in these places there is a torture museum, impressive with its exhibits. The castle also houses the Shipwreck Museum and the small Byzantine church of St. George.

21. Church of Saint Lazarus (Larnaca city)

Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world rush to one of the most important shrines in Cyprus - the Church of St. Lazarus, because everyone wants to touch the relics of the saint, who, according to the Gospel, was resurrected by Christ three days after death. The miraculous resurrection then did not like the clergy, and Lazarus was forced to flee - Larnaca and became his refuge. After the death of the saint, the relics of the saint were buried at the base of the church, after which the temple was rebuilt several times, 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 relics were found - today they are the most valuable artifact and are exhibited for general worship. Among other treasures of the temple - a burnt-out wooden iconostasis with a miraculously survived face of St. Lazarus, icons of St. George the Martyr and the Mother of God Hodegetria.

By renting a car in Cyprus, you immediately gain the opportunity for a rich rest, not tied to the rules of general excursions. Having a car, you can visit the mountains and picturesque bays, stroll through the ancient streets of mountain villages, see ancient monasteries. By the way, in the Troodos mountains you can find what to see in Cyprus by car - it is the stavropegic monastery of the Kykkos Mother of God. The monastery has always had a special role in the history of Cyprus - its brethren have always strived to inspire the people in the most difficult times. And also within the walls of the monastery church is kept the Miraculous icon of the Kykkos Mother of God - according to popular belief, this is one of the three icons painted by the Apostle and Evangelist Luke. This shrine is covered with many legends associated with its miracles - the Mother of God has repeatedly defended, saved from troubles, and from ancient times to this day, during the period of the most difficult trials, the icon has been taken to Mount Troni.

23. Ayia Napa Monastery (Ayia Napa)

Ayia Napa will meet those who are looking for beautiful sights of Cyprus with picturesque beaches with white sand, quaint limestone cliffs and azure sea. But not only a large seaside village is known not only for its developed beach infrastructure - the Ayia Napa Monastery is located very close to the coast, and once the history of a modest fishing village at that time began from it. The monastery is located very close to the coast, in the very center of the popular resort. The history of the monastery began in the 14th century - they say, in those days an impenetrable forest grew in these places, where residents of nearby settlements hunted. Once one of the hunters in the most often discovered a cave in which an ancient icon of the Mother of God was kept. It was in this place that a church grew over time, and after another two centuries - and a monastery. The most valuable shrine of the monastery is the veil handed over to the Savior by Saint Veronica during the procession to Calvary.

24. Selimiye Mosque in Nicosia (North Cyprus)

Already at the entrances to Nicosia, one can see the spiers of the Selimiye mosque towering over the city, built in the 13th century, but still impressive in its size and monumentality. The history of the great monument is extremely rich - the mosque was built for a century and a half, and this process was accompanied by numerous disasters, the construction was repeatedly interrupted due to earthquakes and raids by the Egyptian Mamluks. Initially, the shrine was created as a Roman Catholic church, but in the 16th century, after the capture of Cyprus by the Ottomans, the cathedral was converted by the Turks into a grandiose mosque - the previous decoration was destroyed and painted over, and two minarets were added to the building. But even today, marble tombstones of the Cypriot kings, covered with carpets, have survived. The majestic mosque strikes the imagination with a carved entrance arch, fancy windows, huge columns, Gothic vaults, mosaics and bas-reliefs.

25. The ghost town of Varosha (Northern Cyprus)

To be precise, Varosha is not a city, but a district of the city of Famagusta, which today belongs to the territory of the unrecognized state of Northern Cyprus. It was once a thriving resort town with a 4 km stretch of beach, brand new hotels, shops, markets, nightclubs and private villas. But in 1974, its prosperity was abruptly interrupted as a result of a coup d'état, when the walnuts of the local people revolted, demanding the annexation of Cyprus to Greece. And Turkey, in order to protect the interests of the Turkish part, brought in troops from the north, and the Varosha region became the extreme point of this offensive. So Cyprus was divided into two parts, the north remained occupied by Turkish troops, and the city of Varosha on the border began to play the role of a buffer zone guarded by UN troops. This place was abandoned by the residents, and to this day hundreds of UN representatives are guarding the empty city.

26. The ancient city of Kourion (Episkopi Bay)

Just a few kilometers from the historical center of Limassol, the ancient city of Kourion stretches along the bay. Once it was a large city-state - it was a thousand years before our era. During its existence, the city passed into the possession of the Byzantines, Greeks, Romans, but after many centuries it began to decline - apparently, the starting point of this process was the destructive earthquake of the 4th century AD. And finally the city was abandoned in the 7th century as a result of the Arab invasions. Today, Kourion is a large archaeological museum with ruins from several eras - Hellenism, the Roman period and the early Christian era. A walk through the ruins will turn into an informative journey into the past - among the ruins you can see such objects as the house of Achilles and Eustolios, the Roman baths, the house of gladiators, the ancient theater, the ruins of the basilica, the ruins of the nympheum, fragments of the mosaic.

27. Ancient city of Amathus (southern Cyprus)

Going to explore the sights of southern Cyprus , you should definitely visit one of the ten preserved ancient cities in Cyprus. This is the ancient city of Amathus, with which mythology was closely intertwined - for example, there was an ancient sanctuary here, which was one of the most important places of worship for the goddess Aphrodite, and today you can see the remains of this structure. The city was built in a convenient place on a coastal cliff, on the coast of a natural harbor - this fact predetermined the rapid development of the city in the ancient period; trade with Greece and the Levant went through the local port. Over the centuries, the city was conquered by the Persians, Romans, Ptolemies, Byzantines, and at the end of its glorious history, the city was destroyed as a result of Arab invasions. Today, on the territory of the ancient city, you can see the ruins of the acropolis, the remains of the temple of Aphrodite, a market with rows of marble columns and ancient burials.

28. Aqueduct Kamares (Larnaca)

The sights of Larnaca occupy a special place on the island of Cyprus - these are kilometers of magnificent beaches, ancient temples and fortresses, a walk through the surroundings of which takes many centuries into the past. There are other valuable historical sites such as the Kamares aqueduct. This is the prototype of the modern water supply system, created in the 18th century, the purpose of which was to bring water to Larnaca from a source located above. The aqueduct successfully fulfilled its important role for two centuries, until in the 30s of the last century it was replaced by a modern water supply system. Once Kamares was outside the city, but over the years the city grew and built up, and now the building is in its very center. By the way, the city government appreciates this monument and even created a special committee to protect it.

29. Forty Columns Castle (Paphos)

Not far from the city of Paphos is another of the many fortifications of Cyprus, created to protect against Arab invasions. This is the Forty Columns castle, 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 a fragment of a mosaic panel was discovered during the processing of the land plot located above the port. Upon further excavations, it turned out that this was only part of an archaeological treasure that lurks underground. It is believed that the castle was built in the 7th century by the Byzantines, and in the 13th century it underwent a radical reconstruction. However, the strongest earthquake undermined all these works in the bud, destroying the fortress almost to the ground. The fortress got its name thanks to the granite columns that once supported its vault - they have survived to this day, along with the remains of towers, gloomy dungeons and cellars.

30.Buyuk Khan Caravan Saray (Northern Cyprus)

There are interesting places in Cyprus that preserve the history of those years when Cyprus was part of the Ottoman Empire. One of them is the Buyuk Khan Caravanserai, the largest Ottoman settlement in Cyprus, located in the north of Nicosia. The caravanserai was built by the Turks in the 16th century immediately after the victory they won over the Venetians who ruled here before. Previously, there was a Lusignan palace - it was on its ruins that an inn was built. Once here, life was in full swing - every now and then an inexhaustible stream of guests arrived here, ensuring prosperity for its owners. Since 1878, this territory was assigned to the British, who organized a prison here, and after the Second World War, Büyük Khan was turned into a shelter for the homeless. Today it is an arts center, where there are galleries, workshops, souvenir shops, and also shows the Shadow Theater.

31. Settlement Khirokitia (valley of the Maroni river)

During the Neolithic era, the lands of Cyprus were also inhabited, and this fact is confirmed by the oldest settlements found on the island. How could a person get to the lands of the island even before the era of navigation? It is believed that Cyprus was once part of the mainland, and only the strongest earthquake turned these territories into an island. Choirokitia belongs to the Neolithic settlements of Cyprus, where people settled as early as 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 of stone or clay. At the site of the ancient settlement, you can still see the remains of round dwellings, with burials located under the floor, and fortifications. Some of them have been restored, and when visiting the settlement, today you can look inside one of them to find out how people lived many millennia ago.

32. Avagas Gorge (Laona Plateau)

A trip to Cyprus will not do without beautiful nature - the island is rich in natural beauty, excellent landscapes and climate. Therefore, you should definitely visit the natural attractions of Cyprus. The presentation of natural objects would be incomplete without the Avakas Gorge, located 20 kilometers from Paphos. This natural creation more than a thousand years ago was formed by the river flowing here, which eventually dried up - now only a small stream at the bottom of the canyon remains of it. Avagas is a trekking paradise with breathtaking views and an incredible abundance of flora, including endemic plants and endangered species. As you progress through the gorge, the distance between its stone walls gradually narrows, eventually forming a narrow corridor where stone masses hang right over your head - a frightening but mesmerizing sight.

The coastline of the city of Protaras is completely dotted with small coves, but one of them stands out against the background of the others - this is Fig Three Bay, or Figovogo Derev Bay. Today it is a popular holiday destination with a lot of figs - it is said to be the only place in Cyprus with such a cluster of fig trees. Once the decoration of the bay was a giant fig tree - this is where the name of the area came from. Diving enthusiasts will be especially interested in exploring the coastal underwater world - this is facilitated by the purest clear water and a rich underwater world with mysterious sea caves. The beach offers a lot of entertainment - boating, water skiing, sailing, volleyball, basketball, tennis, and numerous restaurants serving traditional local dishes. The bay is surrounded by a string of hotels with different levels of service.

34. Nissi Beach (Ayia Napa)

The Cyprus resort of Ayia Napa is famous for its beaches, among which the most popular is Nissi Beach, nestled in a beautiful Mediterranean bay. An incredible number of holidaymakers come here every year, preferring noisy parties and a fun holiday in the company of friends. Every day this place is filled with the noise of discos, it pleases young people with a huge selection of entertainment. For example, in the daytime - banana rides, skydiving, scuba diving, in the evenings - incendiary dances, foam parties and beach competitions. Nissi Beach is also perfectly equipped for a comfortable stay - there are comfortable sun loungers, umbrellas, cabins and showers, and the azure water and soft sand are ideal for swimming. You can have a snack in any of the numerous cafes and restaurants.

35. Cape Greco (southeastern Cyprus)

Looking for what to see in Cyprus in May , the route should definitely include Cape Greco, which is considered one of the most beautiful places in Cyprus. It is a true oasis of serenity located in the southeast of the island. Its territory - untouched lands that change their delightful appearance every season - it is no coincidence that they were given the status of a national park in 1993. So, the flora of the local park includes more than four hundred species of plants, including endemics and just rare vegetation. Flowers are especially beautiful - in April-May, this whole area blooms with the most unimaginable colors, impresses with its brightness and beauty. In addition, hunting is completely prohibited on Cape Greco, due to the need to protect local fauna - along with numerous foxes, hedgehogs and hares, there are more than 80 species of birds, including migratory ones, as well as a huge variety of fantastic butterflies.

A trip to Cyprus can be compared to a real trip around the world - it is amazing how many monuments of nature, history and culture are concentrated on one small island. Holidays in Cyprus will not only allow you to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but also plunge into another world, touching the cultures of different eras.