Cyprus Vacations – History, Luxury and Adventure Merge in the Eastern Mediterranean
By: Adrianne Duthie
Throughout history Cyprus, once one of the world’s busiest ports, has been an object of desire in the covetous eyes of Greece, Turkey, Persia, Britain and Rome. The troubles first started more than 3,000 years ago when Mycenaean merchants arrived from Greece and continues to this day as Greece and Turkey wrestle for control of this Mediterranean paradise.
Despite the long history of political turmoil Cyprus remains a major tourist vacation destination, which speaks to the beauty and the cultural richness of this region.
So what is there to do and see on a Cyprus vacation? There are no shortage of options, and like most vacations personal taste will be the major factor in helping decide an itinerary. I’ve taken the time to compile some of the highlights of the best activities, cultural experiences, and historic sites to enjoy during your trip to Cyprus.
Nicosia
A visit to the capital city of Cyprus will immediately illustrate the ongoing conflict for control of this nation. The city is controlled by rival factions of Greek and Turkish. However, baby steps are being made in resolving the dispute between the two countries and in 2008, the wall on Ledra Street that had been a symbolical division between the two nations was finally pulled down after 32 years.
The highlight of a visit to Nicosa is exploring the Old City. Easily recognized by the 16th century walls that were erected to protect against invasion, the Old City houses the Byzantine Museum which contains Cyprus’s most ancient icons, dating way back to the 7th century. On the grounds of Byzantine you’ll also be able to visit the 350 year old St. John’s Cathedral where you can marvel at its beautiful 18th century mosaics.
If you aren’t “museumed out” by Byzantine you can move on to the Leventis Municipal Museum where history buffs can view artifacts ranging in date from the Byzantine period to the current era.
Paphos
One of the most popular tourist destinations on Cyprus is located on the western shoreline of the country. With a multitude of beautiful beach resorts and villas to rent Paphos is the ultimate place to relax and soak up the sun. However, you won’t want to cool your heels for too long as there is plenty to experience in this region as well.
Make a visit to the Tomb of Kings part of your itinerary. Carved into the seaside cliffs this historical site is almost 2,500 years old. You’ll feel the weight of centuries of history as you wind your way through ancient pillars, descend staircases into dusty tombs, and marvel at elaborate carvings dedicated to the Ptolemaic aristocrats who were interred there. Though the name of the site suggests otherwise no kings (or other royalty) were ever entombed here.
From there continue on to the House of Dionysus, a 3rd century Roman villa containing some of the world’s most beautiful mosaics. The mosaics of the House of Dionysus vary widely, with some giving insight into the daily lives of the people to depictions of the gods of Greek mythology.
Troodos Mountains
Tourist resorts not your thing? Looking for an adventure more off the beaten path? Or perhaps you’re simply looking to escape the mercilessly hot sun of the coastal beach resorts for a day or two? In either case a trip to the Troodos Mountains will give you the reprieve you desire.
Here you can tour ancient but still thriving villages and get a first-hand look at the culture, art, and cuisine of the region. Troodos Square is a highlight, lurking in the shadow of the 6,400 peak of Mount Olympus.
Historic monasteries also dot the region, the most famous of which is the 12th century Kykkos monastery. Here you can view a beautiful painting of the Virgin Mary by St. Luke, and just a hop, skip and a jump away you can visit the tomb of the first president of Cyprus – Makarios III.
Limassol
Another region world famous for its beautiful beaches is the southern seaside resort city of Limassol. Besides its gorgeous beaches the region is also renowned for its sugar cane and for its delicious wines. If you are a wine connoisseur then you’ll want to try and plan your vacation around the annual 10 day wine festival that takes place each September, affording visitors the opportunity to sample some of the country’s finest vintages.
Of course, Limassol also offers its share of history as well, and once you’ve had your fill of contemporary culture you can travel back in time to ancient Cyprus by visiting Limassol Castle or Kilossie Castle. Of course the real archaeological jewel of the area is Kourioun. Stroll through the ruins Ancient Greek temples, or marvel at the mosaics within the House of Achilles. For a once in a lifetime experience take in a musical performance at the 2nd century B.C. Roman Era Theater. Treat your ears and your eyes simultaneously as you listen to the performance while gazing out over the Mediterranean.
As you can see a vacation to Cyprus is an amazing adventure that will appeal to travelers of almost every taste. Whether your idea of paradise if relaxing on beautiful beaches, sampling delicious food, and drinking some of the world’s best wine, or getting covered in dust while exploring ruins dozens of centuries old Cyprus will give you an experience you will carry with you throughout your lifetime. You can rent a vacation villa and cool your heels in one spot for a couple of weeks, or be more nomadic and stay at a different hotel every night. Whether a budget backpacker or a luxury traveler I promise you will love every minute of your time on Cyprus, and no matter how long you visit you’ll find yourself wishing you could stay just a few days longer.
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