Cyprus, a blessed island, in its ultimate beauty cover is certainly a divine pleasure to the eyes, heart and soul. An island with a distinguished history and a unique present has a different layer for all in its folds. A legendry birthplace to the goddess of beauty and love, Aphrodite; Cyprus spreads out vibes that simply do not let resist the temptation to explore this paradise on earth at least once.
Before discovering the gems spread all across the island, it is pertinent to trace their footsteps back in the past. Cyprus has seen various civilizations and therefore their cultures come and go with time. Whoever came to experience the undaunted beauty of the location could not help but settle here. Over the last 10,000 years many people who came here as visitors have picked this serene location as their home. The result is a fusion of various styles, tastes and peculiarities, giving birth to a unique culture un-replicated by any and the true essence of this blend can be felt throughout the island.
The Island’s Attractions
The subheading has not been marked special attractions especially because Cyprus has simply has too many charismatic locations and features that can simply not be covered in their fullest sense by any book, an article modestly too less. Yet an attempt is made to give you a feel of what to expect during your stay in the beautiful island.
Cyprus is divided into various regions and each region has made its contribution towards the magical touch. Rating any region as the best would be literally impossible and marking them as beautiful, a complete understatement.
The Walled City
Nicosia, the capital city of Cyprus, has a flavor of its own to present. Situated at the heart of the Mesaoria Plain, this city is defined by 16th-century walls built by the Venetians. The walls mark the city of Nicosia, with a three and a half mile circuit; contain 11 bastions and 3 gates and are in complete shape. In fact, it is possible to walk part of the perimeter.
The city in its vicinity has the famous Byzantine churches, the Byzantine Museum/Makarios Cultural Center and the Ömeriye Mosque. Many other museums, folk presentations and churches are to be discovered, while you are visiting this place. The Royal tomb, the Archbishop’s Palace too feature prominently in the list of attractions in the capital city. If a feel of the cosmopolitan air in Cyprus is to be gathered, Nicosia is the perfect place to be in. The night outs, restaurants and bars give an insight to the true city.
Industrial Resort
In addition to the international airport and deep harbors, Larnaca has various excursion points to explore. Few names include the Agios Lazaros Church, the District Archaeological Museum, the Pierides Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Tornaritis-Pierides Palaeontology Museum and Stavrovouni Monastery. A special event, the feast of Kataklysmos spreads the color of true celebrations here and the grand finale of the feats attracts many tourists and locals alike.
To further add the spark, Ayia Napa resorts; and the night destinations make it a temptation beyond resistance. For those who plan a shake a leg and live Cyprus through the nights, Ayia Napa is a must go. The best night outs, relaxation resorts and entertainment taverns are all located here. Also located here is the biggest wave pool in Europe, Water World Water Park.
Paphos City And The Western Area
Paphos has a variety of ancient points scattered all across its booming main town and the lower area. The Roman villas near the harbor top the list of major attractions. The underground tombs christened as Tombs of the Kings, spread over a vast area and feature as a must see. The Mosaics of Paphos are considered among the finest in Eastern Mediterranean and they too are quite popular among tourists.
The Wine Hub
The second largest city, main industrial port, Limassol offers the best wine in the world. The wine festival held in the month of September is a treat for all wine and food lovers. Kolossi Castle, the finest example of military architecture is among other various popular must see locations in Limassol. Wet n Wild Park, the Kourian and Kourian Museum too are powered to make your trip a perfect delight.
Troodos Mountains
An encounter with the nature at its bets in Cyprus is possible while your visit to the Troodos Mountains. Located in the central region, Troodos has in its store some very picturesque views. The highest peak reaches up to 1953 meters and activities like hiking here are a memorable experience. A walk through introduces with the Byzantine Churches, of which 9 are included in the UNESCO world List.
Others
The Guzelyurt Museum presents a collection that ranges from the prehistoric age of Cyprus to the Byzantine period. St. Mamas Monastery lets you peep through the different backgrounds reflected by Cyprus.
Kyrenia, a town in the Northern coast of Cyprus is known for its magnificent harbor and the nearby castle. The castle is also the proud displayer of the Shipwreck Museum that has on display the oldest discovered shipwreck in history.
Ocean Aquarium, Protoras offers a perfect day out for those who love sea and the life in its vicinity. An entertaining yet education adventure has more on 1000 species to attract all.
In addition to the mentioned specialties, each region in Cyprus offers a range of activities and sports that can be relished while your stay in this beautiful island.
To get a true feel of all the mentioned regions of Cyprus, villages surrounding them must be picked up for a walk. The true Cyprus can be known to its deepest in these semi urban / rural establishments. How to make the tradition sweet dish, a flavor of the traditional delicacy Meze, a cuisine comprising of about 20 dishes and how the life goes about can be enthralling experience. The local’s favorite chitchat point, Kafenos – the village coffee shop deserves a special mention. For a Cypriot, a day is not complete unless some time has been devoted to these coffee shops. And for you the trip of Cyprus is simply incomplete without tasting the flavor of these local touches.
Cyprus – A True Ecstasy