Discovering Historic Limassol
Besides being the most cosmopolitan and vibrant coastal city in Cyprus, Limassol boasts with reminders of the island’s turbulent and multicultural past, all the way from the Crusaders to the Venetians, Ottomans and British eras to modern days. Passionate visitors walk through the lively stoned alleyways of the city’s Old Town and marvel at the Cypriot character, authenticity and identity that is still alive and kicking. As always, there is no better to explore a new place than on foot. Let’s begin!
The Old Fishermen’s Harbour is Limassol’s picturesque old port, where the little wooden and colourful fishermen’s boats (Kaikia) that are anchored here serve as a reminder to what the city used to look like before the tourism boom! The old port transports its visitors to the good old days, when the port overflowed with fishermen selling their day’s catch. Those looking for a tad more glamour should head for the new Marina, where fancy yachts dot the sea. It’s amazing how time passes and how things have changed.
The Limassol Municipal Gardens boast with flowerbeds, towering trees and shrubs, providing the perfect spot and breather in the busy heart of the city. The famed Limassol Wine Festival is held every September within the gardens. The special event provides the perfect excuse for those looking to taste Cyprus wines and participate in local customs and traditions. The gardens are also home to a mini zoo, perfect for a family outing.
The towering Limassol Castle was built by the Lusignans above the site of a Byzantine fort. With the passage of time, the castle fell in the hands of numerous conquerors such as the Venetians, British and Ottomans, who remodelled and strengthened its structure accordingly.
The inspirational Cyprus Medieval Museum is found within the dominant Limassol Castle and showcases an insightful collection of Byzantine pottery, icons and silverware as well as Lusignan armour.
The city’s Market Streets are the oldest quarters of Limassol found around the Limassol Castle and Turkish mosque. The cobblestoned alleys lure visitors to explore and marvel at its wonderful buildings, traditional stalls and shops selling Cyprus crafts, seafood and farm produce. Visitors seeking to soak in tradition and culture are in the right place. The area has been converted into a cosmopolitan hotspot, overflowing with trendy and artistic bars and cafes.
Cami Kabir is Limassol’s largest-sized Turkish mosque and one of the most dominant landmarks. The mosque s symbolic of the time Greek-Cypriots and Turkish-Cypriots lived peacefully together on the island. Today, it is used by the few Turkish-Cypriots who have remained in the city.
The Limassol Archaeological Museum is history buffs dream come true! The museum exhibits a fascinating collection of artefacts and findings taken all the way back from the Bronze Age, Roman era and Classical Period. Some of the most impressive findings include pottery, terracotta statuettes, votive offerings as well as lavish jewellery.
The Agia Napa Cathedral crowns the city’s Old Town with its towering dome and towers. The grandiose cathedral is a fine example of Christian Orthodox architecture. The cathedral was built towards the end of the 19th century and early 20th century. It was built on the site of an earlier 18th century church. The cathedral was named after an icon of the Virgin Mary which was accidently found in a glen. In Latin Napa means glen.
The ancient Carob Mill part of the Old City is a group of vast and old buildings, found behind Limassol’s Castle, which have been remodelled and transformed into tasteful and modern cafes, bars, restaurants, a microbrewery and exhibition area where traditional tools and machinery used in the mill are displayed. The Carob Mill complex has become a cultural and popular spot, enhancing Limassol’s enchanting and cosmopolitan flair as well as reviving its past traditions and customs.
Limassol’s amazing Municipal Folk Art Museum is housed in an ancient merchant’s mansion. The architectural-style of the mansion alone is worth your visit. The vast and insightful collection of the museum transports visitors to the past and narrates how the Cypriots used to live. The collection includes farm tools, traditional garments, ancient furnishings, old kitchen and household utensils. It is truly an amazing and teleporting experience through times.
When exploring Limassol the romantic sunsets, the golden-brown coastline and fascinating culture will cast a spell on you. In Limassol you will find historical sites that will charm you, a rich cultural heritage that will impress you and friendly locals that will make sure your holidays remain unforgettable. Limassol is a city which combines the perfectly marries the past and the present. Happy Limassol exploring!