Кипр – одно из наиболее популярных направлений for relax. Every year, millions of tourists from around the world come here to get acquainted with the beautiful sights, swim in the sea and enjoy the indescribable atmosphere of the seaside resort.
The sun shines here for more than three hundred days a year, andThe bathing season lasts for almost half a year. Almost the entire industry of the island is aimed specifically at tourists. A large number of hotels are located here - from hostels to the best hotels with five stars. This resort is suitable for people of any age.
By the way, young people prefer to rest closer toAyia Napa, because here you can "light" from dawn to dusk. For couples with children, it is better to choose Larnaca or Limassol, because in many hotels of these two resorts there are often interesting programs for children and their parents. But the elderly, as well as natures who want to be alone and calm, prefer to relax in Protaras.
It is quite difficult to answer what is more on the island of Cyprus - ancient sights, noisy fun or romance.
History of the island
The history of this wonderful island began at the very beginning of the appearance of mankind. It is difficult to answer the question when exactly he appeared on earth.
Cyprus is considered part of Europe and belongs immediately.several countries. The northern part of the island is part of Turkey since the 70s of the twentieth century, and the southern part of the island belongs to the Republic of Cyprus. By the way, since 2004, the island is part of the European Union.
Cyprus is considered one of the largestMediterranean islands. The area is about nine thousand square meters, but, as you know, for the day is quite simple to cross the entire territory of the island and see the main attractions.
The relief of the island is quite diverse.There are sandy beaches, rocky hills, as well as wonderful cedar forests. All this is the very unique Cyprus that will be popular for many years to come.
What to see in Cyprus?
Cyprus is the oldest island herepreserved a large number of ruins of ancient buildings. We will tell you about the most interesting sights. They should be seen by everyone who decided to rest in this sunny state.
Royal tombs
In the town of Paphos on the Mediterranean coastthere are royal tombs. It is believed that this landmark - one of the most popular. Many will think that the rulers are buried here, but it is not. There are no kings here, but there is a local nobility. Burials appeared here around the fourth century BC.
Until such time as archaeologists found these royal tombs, the building was smashed and looted by people who were looking for treasure. Preserved only the walls of ancient buildings.
Kolossi Castle
Это сооружение появилось во времена рыцарских orders. The tower is an example of 12th century architecture. The building has survived to our time, the interior decoration and thick walls are in fairly good condition. Travelers have the opportunity to see murals depicting divine scenes.
Previously, this structure was used as a strategic and defensive.
Kyrenia Castle
This castle is located in the northern part of Cyprus. It was built by the inhabitants of the Byzantine Empire in order to protect against Arab raids.
During the reign of the Venetians, it was reconstructed. In the 15th century, when the Ottoman Empire owned the island, it also fell.
For a long time the castle was used by the Turks as a military base, it lasted until the 19th century.
In 1974, the northern part of Cyprus was occupied by Turkish troops, and Kyrenia Castle became a museum.
Ghost Town of Varosha
The ghost town is located in the northern partislands of cyprus Once this place was considered the best to visit. Millions of tourists came here to enjoy the magical atmosphere of relaxation. Famous Hollywood stars liked to visit this place, among them Elizabeth Taylor, Bridget Bardot.
In one moment everything changed. After the invasion of the Turks in 1974, local residents were immediately evacuated. All that was built, surrounded by a fence and put up an armed guard.
Tourists are still resting here, but all these gloomy houses look completely out of place against the sunny beaches of a magical island.
Paphos Fortress
A rather strict architectural structurebuilt during the reign of Alexander the Great. Previously, this fortress was considered part of the defense system. But the lower floors were used as a prison. A rather unusual combination, isn't it?
As for the modern appearance, only some parts of the ancient fort have survived, as the fortress was repeatedly stormed.
Antique city Kourion
In the 12th century AD, this city was considered the largest on the island of Cyprus. Only some parts of it have reached our times.
К сожалению, случилось так, что в четвертом веке BC Kourion was seriously affected by the earthquake. Only its ruins have reached us. As can be seen in the photo posted in the article, there are columns, Roman inscriptions and drawings with images of animals.
Archbishop's Palace
The building was built in the 20th century, but in such a short time managed to acquire the status of attractions. It is located in the central part of the island, in the city of Nicosia.
Next to this building is an 18th century building that was badly damaged during the invasion of the Turkish army in 1974.
At the moment, this place is considered the residence of the Archbishop of Cyprus.
Amathus
This city is also among the ancientancient cities. It is located very close to Limassol. Only remnants of administrative buildings and baths have reached our days. According to ancient myth, the father of Adonis is considered the founder of this amazing locality. It is believed that the spirit of the goddess Aphrodite was once present in this territory.
Selimiye Mosque in Nicosia
This mosque is located in the northern part of the island.Cyprus. The building has existed for more than fifty years, at different times it had a different status - it was a church, a cathedral and a gothic church. Now in this building is a mosque. In the architectural style of the building traces of completely different eras are traced. This does not spoil the building, on the contrary, the sight looks special.
Catacombs of Holy Solomonia
This area is considered one of the most importantthe shrines of the island of Cyprus. A resident of Palestine named Solomonia once died here. She and her children were hiding from the persecution of King Antiochus IV. All sons died with their mother.
The settlement of Khirokitia
Ancient territory that existed in the eraNeolithic, that is, about seven thousand years ago. Included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The territory is well preserved, because archaeologists have managed to find many interesting facts that allow us to draw some conclusions about the life of the island at that time. Unfortunately, it is still unknown where this settlement came from, who lived in it, and where the locals disappeared.
Soroka Castle
This building appeared here in the 12th century andused as a defensive system against the raids of the Arab troops. This name was given to the ruins due to the fact that the construction initially consisted of forty columns. The castle was completely destroyed by an earthquake. There are only some towers, the catacombs. They are of the greatest interest to archaeologists.
Famagusta Gate
Were built in the sixteenth century and defendedNicosia city from the Turkish raids. Are part of fortifications Venetians. At the end of the 20th century, the gate was restored. The area next to them was used as a place for lectures and conferences.
The best tours in Cyprus
On the island there is a lot of ancientattractions. But many of them are very far from each other. If tourists are limited in time and do not know what to see in Cyprus, you should think over the route in advance and make a list of the main points of travel. About them - further in the article.
Salamis - Famagusta
One of the most interesting excursions.All because you will have the opportunity to see the two most famous ancient cities. One of which is antique, and the other medieval. As a bonus - the abandoned city of Varosha.
Be sure to take a passport with you, as you will cross the border and find yourself in another part of the island, which belongs to Turkey. It turns out that this is an excursion to Northern Cyprus.
Gourmet tour
During this tour in Cyprus you will havethe opportunity to visit the village smokehouse. Here are preparing the most popular delicacies of the island. In addition, you will have the opportunity to see the Cyprus winery and taste local specialties.
Donkey Tour
As you know, excursion on donkeys in Cyprus is verypopular with tourists. Many people speak enthusiastically about her, especially children. The only thing that upsets is that a donkey cannot be taken away with you. It is said that the animals are very peaceful and friendly.
If you go there with a child, this excursion in Cyprus will be one of the best solutions.
Picnic for the whole family
If you have already bought and simply can not livewithout mountains, you should take an individual excursion in Cyprus. You can visit the local villages, winery, get a lot of pleasure from the entertainment program for teenagers and a fun picnic. For children, an excursion in Cyprus will be one of the most memorable. Amazing nature, amazing landscapes, hospitality of the locals will long remain in the memory. Numerous reviews of excursions in Cyprus confirm this.
Tour "Shrines of Cyprus"
For many tourists, this tour is one of the most interesting. There are travelers who come here specifically to go to these shrines.
During this tour in Cyprus you can visit most of the holy places of the island.
The cost of excursions
Prices for excursions in Cyprus at different tour operators do not differ. Approximately 3500-4200 rub. (50-60 euros) for one person.
As for the cost of excursions in Cyprus of an individual nature, their prices are much higher, from 21,450 rubles. (300 euros) per person.
Finally
Cyprus is one of the fabulous Mediterranean islands.seas. If you can get here, be sure to come, because on such a small area there are a lot of attractions, and the rest is just wonderful.
