Akamas National Park by car. Outskirts of Paphos, what to see - Akamas Peninsula. Akamas National Park today

History of the area

One of the most mysterious and deserted places in Cyprus is considered National Park Akamas. It is located near the city of Polis, and is a monument of nature and history, attracting great attention.
The development of this territory began in ancient times. This area was first mentioned in one of the ancient Greek myths about Theseus, the conqueror of the Minotaur. Brought to the island of Cyprus by a storm, the hero was forced to leave the pregnant Ariadne. One of Theseus' sons, Akamas, a hero of the Trojan War, settled in these places after being expelled from Athens. It was thanks to Akamas that it was built here Big City, and the peninsula was named after him - Akamas. By the way, many historians are still debating where the name of the peninsula came from. Subsequently, judging by archaeological data, this area was actively populated.
Rich nature and convenient bays made the surroundings of modern Polis especially attractive to ancient settlers. In our time, several ancient cities and settlements of the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods have become known in the territory of the Akamas National Park.

National Park today

The government of the Republic of Cyprus takes a very responsible approach to the protection of the natural park. It is prohibited by law to disturb the nature of this place in any way. An interesting fact is that the orders of the authorities are carried out with great love and care by the Cypriots themselves. Public organizations and local residents from the city of Polis very zealously monitor order in the reserve. And there is something to keep an eye on.
The national park is located over a large area, part of which is bordered by the sea. Akamas National Park itself is home to hundreds of different flora and fauna, many of which are unique.
The highlight of the park, like the entire island of Crete, is that it is located on the border natural areas Europe, Africa and Asia. In the park you can see the rare breed of Vulture griffins, numerous and varied butterflies, and herds of wild goats in their natural environment.
The park staff does a lot of work with sea turtles. They lay hundreds of thousands of eggs on the shores of the Akamas National Park in Polis. But birds of prey and sea creatures allow an extremely small number of hatched turtles to survive. There was a time when these reptiles were on the verge of complete extinction. Today, Polis nature lovers are helping to restore the population of these wonderful animals. Among the flora of the park, one can highlight beautiful pink-purple peonies, which are listed in the Red Book of Cyprus.

The amazing nature of Polis

Among the natural objects of the park, one can highlight, first of all, the caves in the Avakas gorge. They were discovered relatively recently, and immediately became one of the most famous places in the park. The fact is that these caves stretch for many kilometers underground.
The nature of Polis generously rewarded these caves with beautifully shaped stalactites and stalagmites. People once lived inside, as evidenced by fragments of ceramics and a copper arrowhead. Who these people were and what they did in the vicinity of Polis remains to be discovered by historians and archaeologists. All together makes Akamas National Park an interesting place to visit for tourists.

Cyprus has many names. These are the island of Aphrodite, Akamantis, Amathusia and the Holy Island. Everyone finds something of their own here: vacationers - comfortable, well-groomed beaches, pilgrims - monasteries and churches, and travelers - sights and ancient ruins. The nature, flora and fauna of Cyprus deserve a visit to the island.

Enjoy the contemplation of the landscapes, rare species trees and shrubs can be found in the national reserves of Cyprus, of which there are several. There, the inhabitants of the island are in natural conditions, a familiar environment. These are Cavo Greko (near Ayia Napa) and Akamas (Cyprus, western part). Where exactly to go is everyone’s personal choice. It is advisable to visit everywhere to form your own opinion about what you see.

Nature and wildlife

Akamas is located in the west of Cyprus and is the most extreme point of its geography in this direction. Distance from settlements, places filled with people, allows you to preserve the beauty and unique objects of the reserve in pristine purity. The distance to the nearest center of civilization - Paphos - is 65 kilometers. It’s even further from other cities.

It makes more sense to plan a full day to visit the peninsula, without being distracted by other things. And it’s better to settle closer to it so as not to waste a lot of time on the road. The park's area covers more than 200 square kilometers; this large area contains rare plant species (39 out of 128 found on the island).

The next point in the travel program around the peninsula is the Aphrodite trail. There are many such “paths” on the island, and each one claims to be true, real. The length of this path is about 7 kilometers, it is designed for pedestrians.

So that those walking can relax and capture the landscapes they like, there are comfortable benches along the trail. From above you can see the sea, cliffs and numerous bays on the coast.

If we talk about rocks and the sea, then another local curiosity immediately comes to mind - Blue Lagoon. Swimming is allowed here, which is what vacationers enjoy. The color of the water fully corresponds to the name of the creek; it is crystal clear, unnaturally transparent.

The lagoon is popular with swimmers, snorkelers and divers, as well as tourists who wander here. The distance from the baths of Aphrodite is about 5 kilometers, it can be covered on foot. It is recommended to come here early to grab a free seat and enjoy some peace and quiet. Satisfaction with visiting the lagoon is guaranteed, this fact is confirmed by numerous reviews from tourists.

Moving further, having walked about 6 kilometers from Lara Beach, vacationers will inevitably find themselves in the Labyrinth of the Minotaur, or rather, they will come close to it. It is called "". It is surrounded by high (up to 30 meters) rocks, and there are hiking trails in the gorge itself.

The area is picturesque, but for a full journey through it you will need faith in yourself, shoes with rigid ankle support (sandals or sneakers), and possibly hiking poles. Those who have walked through the gorge claim that it resembles the mountain paths of the Crimea: you also have to jump over stones or move sideways along narrow isthmuses. It is not recommended to go here with children or elderly companions.

A sign at the entrance warns of the danger that awaits unwary travelers. By the way, you won’t be able to get into the labyrinth without special equipment. But you can take a lot of photos, selfies, and then provide them with a fascinating story on social networks about the campaign to the places of Theseus’s military glory. The length of the gorge is about 3 kilometers.

Map of attractions of the northern coast of Akamas

Not all travelers to Cyprus, both experienced and newbies, know that in addition to the goddess’s baths and the lagoon, as well walking routes, in the north of Akamas there are other attractions that are no less worthy of attention. These are the bays of Manolis Bay and Fontana Amorosa. And there is also Observation deck Cape Arnaoutis, the island and the Church of St. George, other attractions, little-explored corners awaiting their discoverers.

Royal Tombs in Paphos

True connoisseurs of antiquity will definitely find something to see in Cyprus - undoubtedly the Tombs of the Kings in the city of Paphos in southwestern Cyprus. The majestic necropolis, the history of whose creation goes back to ancient times, became the last refuge for high-ranking officials and representatives of the aristocracy of distant times - just imagine that the first tombs were hewn out of stone back in the 4th century BC.

What are these grandiose creations?

• The underground rooms are hollowed out right inside the rocks and, connected by stairs and passages, form one huge complex.
• The burials exactly replicate the homes 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 to make it easier for visitors to find the one they need.
• Next to each burial you can find a clay jug, which was filled with wine, milk or honey so that the deceased could “get enough.” These gifts were placed in special ritual chambers located next to the tombs.

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

Aphrodite Beach

At 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 Beach. One of the most romantic attractions in Cyprus is a small stretch of rocky beach with beautiful boulders and clear water, which is especially popular among couples. It is believed that after swimming in these waters, lovers will remain together forever. By swimming at Aphrodite Beach at midnight, you can find eternal beauty and youth, a successful marriage and healthy children. Also, according to beliefs, one of the large rocky stones - the Aphrodite stone - has special power, and by performing a certain ritual around it, you can subsequently meet true love.

On Petra tou Romiou beach you can not only enjoy the beauty of nature, but see with your own eyes famous and memorable places, but also visit the cafe located in the parking lot near the beach, on the opposite side of the road. Here you can also take a shower, buy 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)

The pristine natural beauty of Akamas Park

About 50 kilometers from Paphos, beautiful panoramas of nature will open to your attention - unique landscapes with an abundance of vegetation and cleanest 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 with an intoxicating aroma, pebble beaches and sandy bays with crystal clear water.

It is home to a wide variety of wild plants, many of which remain only in this limited range:

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

The local fauna is also surprising in its richness:

• 168 species of birds;
• 20 species of reptiles;
• 12 species of mammals;
• 16 types 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 worthy of a visit, since even the path to it is interesting - in order to get into the gorge itself, you need to walk about 2 kilometers through the protected 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 Solomonia (Paphos)

Catacombs of Saint Solomonia - a Christian shrine in Cyprus

Travelers wondering what to visit in Cyprus have the opportunity to see one of the most unique Christian shrines - the Catacombs of St. Solomonia. This ancient building, created partly by nature, partly by man. According to one of the beliefs, in ancient times there lived in Paphos a certain righteous Solomonia, who refused to perform Roman rites and was forced to hide with her sons in the catacombs from her pursuers. According to one version, the pagans walled up all the passages in the catacombs, dooming the woman to a slow death, but 200 years later, when the passages in the catacombs were cleared, the holy martyr emerged from there safe and sound. According to another version, the woman’s sons were found after escaping and executed, but Solomonia herself was left alive, and the unfortunate woman whiled away her days and nights in tears over the graves of her sons, eventually dying of grief.

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

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

Be sure to watch this beautiful video about Cyprus!

6. Keo Aliki Winery (Limassol)

Keo Aliki winery cellar

The city of Limassol, a major economic and cultural center of the country, is also considered the center of wine production 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;
• taste any product completely free of charge;
• hear some interesting stories about the plant and its products;
• Buying good wine is noticeably cheaper than in stores throughout Cyprus.

One of the most famous alcoholic drinks, produced at the Keo factory, is the premium wine “Commandoria” - the history of its first release dates back to the 8th century, and now it is considered one of the best wines of Cyprus. To produce 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)

The magic of fire, water and the music of dancing fountains

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, to the rhythmic music, magical jets come to life, synchronously soaring upward and performing extraordinary pirouettes. All this is accompanied by a laser light show and all sorts of effects in the form of smoke and fire.

The dancing fountain show is based on modern and one of the most complex systems management of fountains all over 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 reserve a table at cozy cafe directly next to the fountains or on special spectator benches.

8. Eucalyptus grove (Limassol)

Eucalyptus Grove

Another attraction of Cyprus is also attractive to the seaside town of Limassol - a eucalyptus grove that 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 to hide from the rays of the scorching sun, and the aromatic ethereal vapors bring calm and tranquility. In rainy weather the grove will also become great place for walks, when the aromas of trees mix with fresh air saturated with ozone - this kind of “inhalation” will help improve health and improve immunity.

The park also has sports grounds and a children's playground. After enjoying the 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 “Cavo Greco” (Cape Greco)

Beautiful view of the azure sea

In the eastern part of Cape Greco, also called Ayia Napa, is the luxurious Cavo Greco Nature Reserve, whose area is huge - more than 385 hectares. Initially, the purpose of creating 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 pristine nature, here you can find landscaped picnic areas, bicycle paths and walking trails with benches for rest, offering excellent views of the coast with its clear 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 plant species, 14 of which are considered extremely rare - juniper, acacia, mastic tree, fennel, wild garlic, etc.
• many fauna representatives - hedgehogs, foxes, hares, snakes, lizards and various birds.

10. Finikoudes Beach (Larnaca)

Beautiful beach Finikoudes in Larnaca

What should sunbathing lovers see in Cyprus? The first thing worth visiting is, of course, Phinikoudes beach, located right next to the central promenade of Larnaca. It is one of the most popular beaches in Cyprus, so entire regular buses periodically come here, bringing numerous tourists and those simply wanting to have a good rest.

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

The length of the beach is about 0.5 kilometers, and the width is 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 to which Phinikoudes corresponds confirms its cleanliness and safety, and the service here meets the highest demands:

• Lifeguards are on duty throughout the territory;
• equipment rental is available;
• there is a sanitary area;
• fresh water shower;
• The entire beach area is kept perfectly clean.

Sights of Cyprus: what else to visit while in Cyprus

17. Paphos Fortress (Paphos)

View of the medieval fort western edge harbor from Paphos town

At the most extreme point in the west of the city of Paphos there is a protective fort, 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 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 united by a wall, but over the centuries the structure was repeatedly destroyed by invaders, suffered as a result of natural disasters, and was later restored by new owners. Paphos Castle was a prison, a mosque, and even a salt warehouse. But the appearance 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)

Three-story square donjon tower in the 12th century Kolossi castle in the Limassol area

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

19. Buffavento Castle (Northern Cyprus)

Ruins of the fortress walls of Buffavento Castle in the Kyrenia Mountains in northern Cyprus

Along the northern coast of the island of Cyprus stretches a mountain range - the Kyrenia Mountains. It was there, at the very tops, at an altitude of about a kilometer, that three glorious medieval castle- Saint Hilarion, Cantara and Buffavento. As for Buffavento, this fortress was built by the Byzantines back in the 7th century with the main purpose of protecting against Arab raids. The location for the construction was chosen ideally - from this height the entire island was perfectly visible. The fortress consists of two levels: the first began with a bastion, followed by a guardhouse - it still has a fireplace. A level higher are the ruins of the chapel, and from here there are stunning views of the Kyrenia Mountains chain. The castle cannot be attributed to a specific period of history - judging by the method of masonry, different levels of the castle were built starting from the 7th century and completed until the 14th century.

20. Kyrenia Castle (Northern Cyprus)

Kyrenia Castle is a 16th-century castle in the eastern part of the old harbor of Kyrenia in Northern Cyprus

Another significant bastion on the lands of Cyprus is Kyrenia Castle, towering above the old harbor ancient city Kyrenia, in the very north of Cyprus. Just like Buffavento, Kyrenia Castle was built in the 7th century to resist Arab invasions. The citadel has a rectangular shape with bastions located at the tops. This architectural solution was so successful that the castle has never been stormed throughout history. The courtyard is so vast that knightly tournaments were once held here. Visit interior spaces The castle will impress with its history, the spirit of which is still preserved within these walls: prisoners 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. On the territory of the castle there is also a Shipwreck Museum and a small Byzantine temple of St. George.

21. Church of St. Lazarus (Larnaca)

Church of St. Lazarus – Orthodox church 9th century in the city of Larnaca

Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world flock 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 did not please the clergy, and Lazarus was forced to flee - Larnaca became his refuge. After his death, the saint’s relics 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 a most valuable artifact and are exhibited for public worship. Other valuables of the temple include a burnt-out wooden iconostasis with the miraculously surviving face of St. Lazarus, icons of St. Martyr George and the Mother of God Hodegetria.

Buildings of the Orthodox monastery of Kykkos in picturesque mountains Troodos in Cyprus

By renting a car in Cyprus, you immediately gain the opportunity to have an eventful holiday, not tied to the regulations of general excursions. Having a car, you can visit the mountains and picturesque bays, stroll along the ancient streets of mountain villages, and see ancient monasteries. By the way, in the Troodos mountains you can find what to see in Cyprus by car - This is the stauropegic 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 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 surrounded by many legends associated with its miracles - the Mother of God protected more than once, saved from troubles, and from ancient times to this day the icon is taken to Mount Troni during the most difficult trials.

23. Ayia Napa Monastery (Ayia Napa)

Courtyard of the Ayia Napa Monastery in the center of the youth resort of Ayia Napa
Monastery of Our Lady of Napa from the 15th century in Italian Renaissance style in the city of Ayia Napa

Those who are looking for the beautiful sights of Cyprus will be greeted by Ayia Napa with picturesque beaches with white sand, quaint limestone cliffs and azure sea. But the 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 upon a time it was from here that the history of the then modest fishing village began. 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 that in those days there was an impenetrable forest in these places, where residents of nearby settlements hunted. One day, one of the hunters in the thicket discovered a cave in which an ancient icon of the Mother of God was kept. It was on this site that a church grew over time, and two centuries later, a monastery. The most valuable shrine of the monastery is the veil given to the Savior by Saint Veronica during the procession to Golgotha.

24. Selimiye Mosque in Nicosia (Northern Cyprus)

View of the Selimiye Mosque (formerly Hagia Sophia) from Shakolas Tower (Ledra Museum-Observatory) A.Savin

Already at the entrances to Nicosia you can see the spiers of the Selimiye Mosque towering over the city, built in the 13th century, but to this day 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; construction was repeatedly interrupted due to earthquakes and raids by the Egyptian Mamluks. Initially, the shrine was created as a Roman Catholic temple, 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 been preserved. The majestic mosque amazes with its carved entrance arch, fancy windows, huge columns, Gothic vaults, mosaics and bas-reliefs.

25. Ghost town of Varosha (Northern Cyprus)

Varosha quarter in the city of Famagusta - a former tourist center in Cyprus Zairon
Abandoned hotels in the ghost town of Varosha in Northern Cyprus Zairon

To be precise, Varosha is not a city, but a district of the city of Famagusta, which today belongs to the territory unrecognized state Northern Cyprus. It was once a thriving resort town with a 4-kilometer strip 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'etat, when the Greek part of the local people rebelled, 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 serve as a buffer zone guarded by UN troops. The place was abandoned by its inhabitants, and to this day hundreds of UN representatives guard the empty city.

26. Ancient city of Kourion (Episkopi Bay)

The ruins of the ancient city of Kourion on the shores of Episkopi Bay near Limassol Anna & Michal

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

27. Ancient city of Amathus (southern Cyprus)

Excavations of the ancient city of Amathus near Limassol Carole Raddato

Going to explore the sights of southern Cyprus , It’s definitely worth visiting one more of the ten surviving 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 of the goddess Aphrodite, and today you can see the remains of this structure. The city was built on a convenient location 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 took place 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. Kamares Aqueduct (Larnaca)

Stone Kamares Aqueduct or Bekir Pasha Aqueduct from the 18th 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, a walk around the surroundings of which takes you 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 deliver water to Larnaca from a source located above. For two centuries, the aqueduct successfully fulfilled its important role, until in the 30s of the last century it was replaced by a modern water supply system. Kamares was once located outside the city, but over the years the city grew and was built up, and now the structure is in its very center. By the way, the city government values ​​this monument and even created a special committee to protect it.

29. Castle of Forty Columns (Paphos)

The preserved gate of a 7th-century Byzantine fortress in Paphos Archaeological Park Wolfgang Sauber

Not far from the city of Paphos there is another of the many fortifications of Cyprus, created to protect against Arab invasions. This is the Castle of Forty Columns, 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, during processing land plot, located above the port, a fragment of a mosaic panel was discovered. Upon further excavations, it turned out that this was only part of the 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 major reconstruction. However, a strong earthquake undermined all these works, 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. Caravanserai Buyuk Khan (Northern Cyprus)

Fountain in the center of the open courtyard of the Büyük Khan caravanserai in Cyprus

There are interesting places in Cyprus that preserve the history of those years when Cyprus was part of 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 had previously ruled here. Previously, there was a Lusignan palace here - it was on its ruins that the inn was built. Once upon a time, life was in full swing here - every now and then an inexhaustible stream of guests arrived here, ensuring prosperity for its owners. Since 1878, this territory was appropriated by the British, who organized a prison here, and after World War II, Büyük Khan was equipped as a shelter for the homeless. Today it is an arts center, where there are galleries, workshops, souvenir shops, and Shadow Theater shows are also held here.

31. Settlement of Khirokitiya (Maroni River valley)

Reconstructed circular dwellings of Khirokitia between 7000 and 5800 BC. e. Ophelia2

During the Neolithic era, the lands of Cyprus were also inhabited, and this fact is confirmed by the oldest settlements discovered 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 a strong earthquake turned these territories into an island. The Neolithic settlements of Cyprus include Khirokitia, where people settled as early as 7 millennia BC. The small group of people was only 300-600 people. They were engaged in cattle breeding, farming, hunting, fishing and built round houses of stone or clay. At the site of the ancient settlement, today you can see the remains of round-shaped dwellings, with burials located under the floor, and defensive structures. 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)

River among picturesque rocks in the Avagas gorge on the Laona plateau in Cyprus

A trip to Cyprus will not be complete without beautiful nature- The island is rich in natural beauty, superb scenery and climate. Therefore, you should definitely visit the natural attractions of Cyprus. The presentation of natural sites will be incomplete without the Avakas Gorge, located 20 kilometers from Paphos. More than a thousand years ago, this natural creation was formed by a river flowing here, which dried up over time - now all that remains is a small stream at the bottom of the canyon. Avagas is a true paradise for hikers, with breathtaking views and an incredible abundance of flora, including endemic plants and endangered species. As you pass through the gorge, the distance between its stone walls gradually narrows, eventually forming a narrow corridor where huge stone masses hang right above your head - a frightening but mesmerizing sight.

Attractive landscape of Fig Tree Bay in the resort town of Protaras in Cyprus dronepicr

Coastline The city of Protaras is completely dotted with small coves, but one of them stands out from the rest - this is Fig Tree Bay, or Fig Tree Bay. Today it is a popular holiday destination where many figs grow - it is said to be the only place in Cyprus with such a concentration of fig trees. Once upon a time, the bay was decorated with a giant fig tree - this is where the name of the area came from. Diving enthusiasts will be especially interested in exploring the coastal undersea world- this is facilitated by the purest transparent water and a rich underwater world with mysterious sea caves. The beach offers a lot of entertainment - boating, water skiing, sailing, volleyball, basketball, tennis, there are numerous restaurants serving traditional local dishes. The bay is surrounded by a string of hotels with different levels service.

34. Nissi Beach (Ayia Napa)

Famous Nissi Beach inside a 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, comfortably located in a beautiful Mediterranean bay. An incredible number of vacationers 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, delighting young people with a huge selection of entertainment. For example, in the daytime - banana rides, parachute jumping, scuba diving, in the evenings - fiery dancing, foam parties and beach competitions. Nissi Beach is also well 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 many cafes and restaurants.

35. Cape Greco (southeastern part of Cyprus)

Sea caves at Cape Greco in the south-eastern part of the resort of Ayia Napa Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz

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

A trip to Cyprus can be compared to the real thing trip around the world- It’s amazing how many natural, historical and cultural monuments are concentrated on one small island. Holidays in Cyprus will allow you not only to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but also to plunge into another world, touching the cultures of different eras.

Among the most famous and interesting places Cyprus, the Akamas Peninsula stands out, located 50 kilometers west of Paphos. This place is a nature reserve and is protected by government organizations that monitor order in the territory around the clock.

Initially, the peninsula belonged to the British military, who set up a training ground here and regularly conducted training exercises. However, in 2000, Amakasu was given the status of a reserve, and the military had to leave the place.

Traveling around Akamas

Also Akamas in Cyprus is one of the most advertised tourist destinations. Many guides offer their clients excursions to the main places of this reserve. As a rule, there can be several options:

1. Travel to the Blue Lagoon, with a visit to the Baths of Aphrodite;
2. Excursion to Lara Beach;
3. Visit to Avakas Canyon.

These are just examples. In fact, in order to see all the sights, even active tourists you'll have to spend the whole day. Often, guides offer visitors to end their trip in a short fishing village. There you can try local cuisine and relax, after which you can head back to your resort, or continue visiting interesting places.

A fairly popular choice is to explore the sights of Akamas in a rented car. The difference is that there is no guide, so it is recommended to read before going detailed information about all interesting places in order to create an approximate route. It should also be taken into account that most of The territory is a nature reserve, through which it is prohibited to travel by vehicle, which is why many places can only be seen by walking. Many signs along the roads will prevent tourists from getting lost. However, many travelers try to take a GPS navigator with them, since most of the country roads in Cyprus are included in their network.

Travel agencies often offer jeep safari around the reserve. This is due to the almost complete absence of asphalt roads. You can only feel confident in a jeep, due to its increased cross-country ability. However, no one can prohibit you from coming to Akamas in an ordinary car. Locals People often choose bicycles as transport or even walk, which is quite good for health.

There are a couple more ways to get to Akamas. The cheapest is a bus, but there is no direct route to the reserve, because if you get from Paphos, you will need to change in Polis. There is also the opportunity to go from Polis by boat, and often on such trips there is the opportunity to swim in the warm sea along the way.

The reserve is of great scientific interest. Here you can find more than 500 species of plants that can only grow in Akamas! Spring turns these places into a real green garden, the air of which is filled with the aromas of flowers. Butterflies often flutter near the plants. In total, 25 species of these insects are found in Akamas, and 16 of them are listed in the Red Book. In addition, some rare species of animals have found refuge here.

When visiting the Akamas Nature Reserve in Cyprus, it is recommended to be careful not to go too far into the grass, as there are often hiding places Poisonous snakes capable of inflicting a fatal bite.

Lara Beach

It's quite picturesque sand beach, where tourists often relax and swim. It is on this shore that sea turtles nest, so visitors can sometimes watch the process of laying a clutch, as well as the subsequent hatching of the young.

Aphrodite's Path

According to Greek mythology, the goddess of beauty herself walked along this path at the moment when Adonis died from the fangs of a boar. The route is laid through relatively bright, picturesque places with more colorful flora. In addition, this destination is quite popular among tourists. This is mainly due to legends that are dedicated to the goddess of beauty.

Adonis Trail

Adonis was the mortal lover of Aphrodite. The gods of Olympus did not approve of such a union, but their relationship continued because no one took active action. One day Adonis died while hunting. This route is dedicated to this sad event. It is much gloomier than the Aphrodite path, in addition, almost all of it runs through pine forests and juniper thickets. Tourists are quite rare here, although the trail is even slightly more picturesque than its competitor.

Akamas National Park is located on the peninsula of the same name in the northwestern tip of Cyprus, near the cities of Paphos and Polis. The area of ​​the reserve is about 230 square meters. km. The mysterious park is imbued with ancient Greek mythology and the picturesque beauty of nature.

In the reserve you can find endemic plant species (Akamas alyssum, local cyclamens and buttercups): officially - 39 of the 128 rare species in Cyprus. Frequently encountered representatives of the peninsula's fauna are fruit the bats, foxes, wild goats, shrews, vultures, Cyprus owls, sea turtles.

History of the Akamas Nature Reserve

The development of the peninsula began long before our era. The first mention of the reserve is found in the myth of the famous Theseus, who defeated the Minotaur. The peninsula is named after the son of Theseus, Akamas, a hero of the Trojan War, who settled here after being expelled from Athens.

This marked the beginning of the settlement of the park territory. The favorable climate and convenient location near the sea attracted many people here, and the number of settlements grew. According to archaeological finds, there were several cities here from the Greek, Roman and Byzantine periods.

Panorama of Akamas Park from the mountain road - Google Maps

Nowadays, the government of the Republic of Cyprus and the inhabitants of the island themselves treat the protected area very carefully. Local laws prohibit disturbing the nature of the park in any way. Akamas Park staff are working with sea turtles, whose population was previously on the verge of extinction.

What to see

The territory of the reserve includes places known throughout the world. Each of them is a unique attraction associated with the religion of the ancient Greeks and mythical characters. If you are lucky enough to be here, it is recommended to visit them all. A day is enough for this, and you can end it with a delicious dinner in a fishing village.

Bath of Aphrodite

Aphrodite's Bath is a natural cave filled with water from a natural spring, located in the northeastern part of Akamas. According to myths, the Goddess Aphrodite took baths here and met with an ordinary shepherd - Adonis, who, however, possessed divine beauty.

It is believed that swimming here rejuvenates the body, but this will not be easy to verify. There is a warning at the entrance that swimming is prohibited here, but you can wash your face. Further along the path you can see the Fountain of Love - a good place to visit with your significant other.

Aphrodite's Path

The attraction consists of a 7.5 km long trail. According to legend, the path appeared when the grass and stones began to recede to the sides in front of the Goddess who passed here. On the path she met Adonis, and under a centuries-old oak tree standing on the side of the road, they fell in love.

If you follow the path without turning, you will come to the point from which you started. During the walk you can see goats, descendants of those whom Adonis himself watched over. There are benches along the entire path, from each of which you can enjoy fabulous romantic landscapes; it’s also worth bringing your significant other here.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is perhaps the most famous attraction of the Akamas National Reserve. The cliff-lined bay is one of the most beautiful swimming spots in Cyprus. The water is blue and very clean - the bottom is clearly visible, snorkeling and swimming are very popular here.

It is recommended to swim or go here early, tourists love this place very much, there are thousands of them during the day. Those who like to walk will also not be disappointed: the lagoon is located 4.6 km from the baths of Aphrodite, if you walk along the sea to the northwest.

Lara Beach

Turtle Beach Lara Beach is a protected coastline of the bay of the same name in the southern part of Akamas Park. Nearby there is a hatchery for rare sea turtles, where you can learn more about them. The reptiles are well guarded, the clutches of turtle eggs are fenced off so that no one will step on them, and during the peak laying season the swimming area is generally closed to visitors.

The coastline of the beach is very convenient for swimming - clear water and sand that is pleasant to the touch, a gentle entrance and a gradual increase in depth. However, it is prohibited to place umbrellas and there is no infrastructure here at all; you will have to forget about the resort service.

Avakas Gorge

The Avakas gorge is located 5-6 km from Lara beach. The place is perfect for lovers of active hiking and challenging routes. The height of the rocks here is about 30 m, the distance between them is small. Here you can see the famous Labyrinth of the Minotaur, but without special equipment and skills you can’t get there alive.

The route through the gorge will be approximately 3 km. It starts with a sign about the danger that awaits you ahead, which, by the way, should be taken into account. It is not recommended to go into the gorge with children and in shoes with soft or poorly secured soles (flip-flops, sandals) - you simply will not be able to move on the rocks.

How to get to Akamas National Reserve

There is a connection between the cities closest to Akamas Park public transport. You can get to the reserve on the Akamas Peninsula from Polis by bus number 622, it stops near the Baths of Aphrodite. There are no direct routes from Paphos, but you can get to Polis by bus number 610.

It won't take long to get there by car from both nearby cities, although an ordinary car won't get through here. You need a four-wheel drive vehicle with high suspension or an ATV. If such transport is not available, then you can rent it; this is a very popular service in Cyprus.

Route by car from Paphos to Akamas National Park in Cyprus - Google Maps

You can also sail from any pier on a rented motor boat or even a yacht. Transfers in Cyprus are also carried out by taxi; both Russian taxi companies operate here - Kiwi Taxi and Cyprus Taxi, as well as the popular international service Gett.

Video “Akamas National Park from above”