Limassol - the largest city of Cyprus, located on the Mediterranean sea, between the two ancient cities of Amathus to the East and Kourion in the North-West coast.
In Limassol and surrounded by the monuments from ancient history, a valuable architectural objects, as well as museums, churches and parks. For this reason, a visit to Paphos can be a great solution for those who like to combine a beach holiday with sightseeing.
Sights of Limassol
Old Port Limassol
A small port that is part of the historic centre of the city.
Once the old port was the main port of Limassol, its original foundations were laid during the British occupation of the island in the late 19th century.
Currently, the old port is one of the most popular tourist areas of the city. In the port cafés and restaurants are concentrated near the small Marina where moored fishing boats and tourist vessels.
Limassol Marina
Limassol Marina is bordered by the old port and is not only a modern Marina, but also modern and elite area of Limassol.
On the territory of the Limassol Marina is situated villas and modern residential apartment complexes, there is the homonymous beach, yacht-club, Spa-center, fitness-club, and places of General entertainment - Central square with a fountain, recreational areas, restaurants, cafes and shops. Read more about the port of Limassol...
Molos promenade and sculpture Park (Molos Limassol)
Molos - the Central promenade of Limassol, the multifunctional seaside Park, considered one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean basin and one of the most vibrant places in the city.
Currently, Molos is a wide promenade framed on both sides with delicate palm trees, where part of the boardwalk is made in the form of small pools.
Sea side are several wooden piers, and from the city to the boardwalk and adjacent Park area - the Park of sculptures, in which: lots of trees, sidewalks, bike paths, fountains, places to stay, a couple of playgrounds and a small skate Park. Read more about Molos waterfront and the sculpture Park in Limassol...
St. Catherine Catholic Church
More formally known as the Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria, located near the sea, opposite the promenade, the Molos.
Church with Baroque elements was built between 1872 and 1879 years and officially opened on the feast day of Saint Catherine on 25 November in the presence of foreign delegations and the Governor. In 1979 the Church underwent a restoration process.
The old town of Limassol
The main tourist sites of the city is the Old city of Limassol, located in the lower part of the city near the sea. In this part of Limassol is the largest number of attractions.
The old town is narrow streets, lined with historic buildings with cafes and restaurants, small shops and souvenir shops as well as churches and squares.
The main attractions of the Old town of Limassol:
- The castle square, where you can find: the castle of Limassol is the medieval Fort built on the site of an early Christian Basilica and Byzantine castle, the walls of which is the Cyprus Medieval Museum, collection of artifacts which tells about the historical development of Cyprus, its economic, social and artistic evolution, as well as the everyday life of the people of the island from the 3rd to the 18th century BC; Museum of the carob tree, which is the equipment of 1900-ies, once used to process fruits of the carob trees and two areas of archaeological excavations, where you can see remains of medieval buildings;
Cathedral of Limassol, known as the Cathedral of Ayia NAPA, the monumental building stands gracefully in the centre of the old town is, without a doubt, one of the main shrines of the city.
The Cathedral was built in the early 20th century on the ruins of the old and smaller Byzantine Church. Represents a unique architectural mix of Greek lines with elements of traditional Byzantine architecture;
mosque Kebir-Dzhami - is one of the most important churches of the centre of Limassol, built in the 16th century on the foundations of the older Christian churches. The interior of the temple consists of several rooms, separated by arches.
Behind the mosque, on the street side Genethliou Mitellla, you can see the remains of an old Christian Basilica on the site of which was erected the mosque;
Central, the busiest and one of the most attractive streets of the old town, Agiou Andreou street, lined with historic buildings, shrines and the abundance of cafes, bars, restaurants and shops;
- the public library of Limassol, located in one of the most beautiful historic buildings in the city and is one of the largest libraries in Cyprus;
historical building of the former Central market (Central Municipal Market), built during the British rule and located in the square with a fountain;
the Cathedral of Panagia Pantanassa "Catholics" has impressive size and modern look. The temple was built in 2012 and has the status of a Cathedral and is dedicated to Saint Nicholas;
- the old water tower, is an example of the engineering heritage of Cyprus;
- Holy Trinity Church, built in 1919, designed in the shape of a cross with two tall towers-the bell tower, stone carving and surmounted by a large dome. The Church interior has bright colors and wooden décor;
- folk art Museum, which opened its doors on 20th June 1985, includes collections of garments, embroidery, carvings, old farm equipment, tools and utensils, jewelry, decorative objects and furniture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries;
archaeological Museum of Limassol district, which holds antiquities, covering the development of civilization on the island and the main windings of the history of Cyprus.
In addition to these, in the old town of Limassol and other remarkable churches, historical and architectural buildings, such as theatres, squares and streets. Read more about old town of Limassol...
Municipal Park and Limassol zoo
City Park green space, with walking paths, Seating areas, a fountain, a Playground, an outdoor amphitheatre and monuments, located opposite the main promenade, is the largest and most visited Park in this part of the city.
The Park is a small zoo of Limassol.
Cathedral ΠΑΡΕΚΚΛΗΣΙΟΝ ΑΓ. ΜΕΓΑΛΟΜΑΡΤΥΡΟΣ ΚΑΙ ΙΑΜΑΤΙΚΟΥ ΠΑΝΤΕΛΕΗΜΟΝΟΣ
Small Church located near the bus station of Limassol
Plant KEO
KEO (Cyprus wine company) - the European company for the manufacture of beverages, based in Cyprus in 1927 and represents one of the largest industrial employers on the island with more than 90 brands in its portfolio. The company's shares are traded on the Cyprus stock exchange.
Reflecting its name, the company started as a company producing wine in the Limassol district. In 1951 the company began beer production by importing expertise from Czechoslovakia. Since then the product range has expanded to include a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages: wines (e.g. Commandaria), brandy, cognac, other spirits (including zivania), bottled water, juices, and even canned fruits and vegetables.
Vintage car Museum
Museum of historic and classic cars opened its doors in February 2014.
Now in the Museum you can see classic, historic and collectible cars. The exhibits of the Museum covers a century of motoring, veteran of the collection is a Ford "T" in 1912.
The Museum also has a small cinema where visitors can watch a movie "Motoring through the prism of time".
In the premises of the Museum, in addition to the permanent exhibition of vehicles, often organized various activities such as art exhibitions, fashion shows and photography.
Opening hours:
- winter: daily from 10:00 to 17:00 hours;
summer: Monday - Friday from 09:00 to 17:00 hours, Saturday and Sunday 10:00 to 18:00 hours.
Entrance tickets: adults - 11 Euros; children up to 12 years - 5€; teenagers (over 12 years) - 7 Euro; seniors over 65 years - € 9; family tickets: €26 Family 1 (2 adults and 1 child/teenager), €29 Family 2 (2 adults and 2 children/teenagers).
Attention! Museum hours and ticket prices may change, please check before visiting.
Water Park Fasouri Watermania (Fassouri Watermania Waterpark)
The Park was opened in 1999 and since then constantly updated and expanded, and currently is the largest water Park in Cyprus.
The Park is decorated in a tropical style - with exotic plants, Polynesian buildings with roofs of palm branches, wooden walkways and canopies.
The water Park offers a children's area with slides and playgrounds for younger and older children, extreme slides, wave pool and a river with a rapid current, as well as several catering outlets. The most famous attraction - a 50-meter hill "Kamikaze". The website of the Park.
Attractions near the city of Limassol (Limassol district)
Cyprus Land
Park "the Cyprus land" theme Park, located in the municipality of Germasogeia, East along the coast from the centre of Limassol.
In the Park you can get acquainted with the history, culture and traditions of the island of Cyprus. In the Park there are workshops of traditional Cypriot crafts, to manufacture tools and household items, lace, mosaic, pottery, glass, olive oil and honey.
The centre of the Park is the exhibition dedicated to the history of Cyprus. Also in the Park you can practice archery, watch a short jousting battles, café or take part in professional workshops. The official website of the Park. Read more about the municipality of Germasogeia...
The archaeological site Amathous (Amathus)
Amathus - one of the oldest cities of Cyprus, formed somewhere in the year 1100 BC.
Currently, the ruins of Amathus represent archaeological historical complex in the open air, consisting of two separate sections - the upper (the Acropolis of Amathus) and lower, which are based on Agora - the remains of the market square. Read more about the ruins of Amathus...
The Monastery Of St. George the Alaman (Monastery of St. George Alamanou)
The nunnery, the second largest women's monastery in Cyprus.
In the 12th century on the place settled monastic order, sought refuge in Cyprus after the occupation of Palestine. George was one of the monks, a former soldier, became famous for his miracles and piety. It is believed that many of the caves located on the slopes of the hill above the monastery, were the places where George lived. After his death there was founded the monastery of St. George, called on the origin of the first monks.
Later the monastery was abandoned for a long time. In the late 19th century, the monastery began to revive and recover. But since the mid-20th century this place was settled by nuns, and the monastery became a female.
Currently, the monastery George the Alaman - the second largest women's monastery of Cyprus, after the monastery of the Mother of God of the Golden Pomegranate (Panagia Hrisoroyatissa). Here the nuns are preparing for service in other monasteries of Cyprus.
The monastery is built in Byzantine style. Around the courtyard are the rooms of the nuns. The monastery is the source, according to local - with healing Holy water.
The white cliffs of Limassol
Near the monastery, on the border of the districts of Limassol and Larnaca, is one of the most amazing natural sights of the southern coast of Cyprus - the white rocks Governor's beach.
The contrast of dark sand and white rocks are a great sight and one of the favorite places in the district of Limassol for photo shoots.
Salt lake Limassol (Limassol Salt Lake)
Salt lake Larnaca or Limassol salt lake is a significant wetland in Europe and the largest inland pond on the island of Cyprus.
Currently, the lake is one of the natural attractions of Cyprus.
In the winter months and off-season, the lake attracts migratory birds, including flocks of pink flamingos and herons. Whereas in the summer months, a large part of the lake dries up, leaving an extensive flat area of sand and salt. Read more about the Salt lake of Limassol...
Cat's monastery (Agios Nikolaos ton Gaton Monastery)
The monastery of Saint Nicholas (Cat) or the monastery of Agios Nikolaos ton Gaton is the oldest and one of the first monasteries founded in Cyprus.
The first monastery may have been founded in 327 and was built in 365 year. Since the main occupation of the islanders was fishing, and sailing, the monastery was consecrated in honor of St. Nicholas - the patron Saint of sailors and fishermen.
Historically, the monastery belongs to the 14th century. In the 16th century the monastery was abandoned. Only in 1980-ies he was again "occupied" by Orthodox monks. Part of his premises rebuilt, part restored, using the stones of an ancient monastery.
Currently it is a functioning monastery on the territory of which is home to several dozen cats. Read more about Cat monastery.
Kolossi Castle
Kolossi castle - remains of the medieval castle, located in the eponymous village of Kolossi in the Limassol district, the South-Western part of Cyprus.
The original castle dates from the year 1210, was built by the knights of St. John was the residence of the Supreme military command of the island.
The surviving castle was built in 1454 by the Hospitallers under the command of Louis de Maniac, from which the castle got its name and whose coat of arms can be seen today on one of the walls of the castle.
To the present day in integrity is preserved, only the main three-storey square tower of the castle, which reaches a height of almost 22 metres. Read more about Kolossi castle...
The Village Of Erimi (Ερήμη)
In the village of Erimi are the Cyprus wine Museum (Cyprus Wine Museum) and St. Raphael Church (Άγιος Ραφαήλ). The village is located between Episkopi (a Curio) and Kolossi.
Archaeological Park Kourion
Once Kourion was an important city-state, built as a Kingdom, about the 1050-750 BC and during its history belonged to the Greeks, Romans and Byzantines. For security purposes, Kourion is situated on the top of the cliff.
Currently, the site is a Archaeological open air Museum, located within the British overseas territory of Akrotiri and is part of the UNESCO world heritage site.
The Archaeological site is a quite impressive area, which archaeological objects, paths and trails for transportation, arbors for rest, tourist information centre, car Park and ticket office. Read more about archaeological Park Kourion...
Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates
Archaeological site - ruins of the temple of Apollo Hillsboro.
Once it was one of the main religious centres of ancient Cyprus, where Apollo was worshipped as the God of the forests. Perhaps the worship of Apollo on this spot began in the 8th century BC and lasted until the 4th century ad.
The place has undergone many expansions and changes in different periods of history. The monument that we see today are restorations of the 1st century ad.
Original territory consisted of: Church, traces of which have survived in the Foundation of this temple; round the monument, which probably was intended for processions or dances around a grove of sacred trees; and a formalized archaic altar and plot of land. During the Roman period, the temple was expanded with the addition of South and North buildings. A small building South of the temple could be the home of the priest. Along the external East side of the wall were the baths and the palaestra, the place where athletes played sports and played games.
The Village Of Pissouri
A small village, part of Limassol district and is located on the southwestern coast of the island of Cyprus, between Paphos and Limassol.
Distinguish top village of Pissouri, situated on a hill (the hill) and the settlement of Pissouri area Pissouri Bay with a wonderful beach and clean sea waters. Read more about village of Pissouri...
The Village Of Omodos
Omodos is a traditional Cypriot village located in the Troodos mountains (altitude about 900 meters above sea level), approximately 40 km from the historic centre of Limassol.
Currently, Omodos is a tourist village that has preserved its ancient beauty and flavor, anciently famous for wine production and fruit orchards, narrow streets, picturesque views, tavernas, and ancient stone buildings with carved wooden balconies, special place among which occupies the monastery of the Holy cross. Read more about Omodos village and the monastery...
The Beaches Of Limassol
A special place among the places to visit in Limassol and the Limassol area, is the beaches stretching a long strip along the coast of Limassol district.
The beaches of Limassol are considered to be one of the best beaches of Cyprus. Many are awarded with "Blue flag" - a sign of purity and quality of the beach and sea water.
On the beaches of Limassol offer a full range of services for a comfortable stay: sun beds and parasols, showers and toilets, tower rescue and wooden decks, locker rooms and boxes. Near most of the beaches allocated places for water sports and entertainment. There are playgrounds and a beach café. Read more about beaches of Limassol...