Larnaca

Located on the southeast coast of Cyprus and the oldest existing city in the country, Larnaca is both an important commercial port and a picturesque tourist resort with sun, palm trees and sandy beaches.

Tracing its history back some 6000 years, it is claimed that Larnaca’s original name of Kitium derives from Noah’s grandson Kittium, who supposedly founded the first settlement. Despite this legend, the earliest remains can only be traced to the Mycenean age (1400-1100 BC), when the site was the principal Phoenician colony in Cyprus. Indeed, the city’s importance was indicated in the 13th century BC with the establishment of the Kition City Kingdom.

Later sidelined by Persia’s waning influence, Larnaca only re-established itself during the Byzantine era, becoming the commercial centre of Cyprus under the Ottomans. Taken over in 1878 by the British, whose dominance lasted until 1960, the city remained a focal point in the region and has since expanded.

Despite enduring earthquakes throughout its history, Larnaca’s past is still very much visible. This cultural appeal, coupled with the more modern developments courtesy of tourism, make the city a lovely place to visit.

Attractions

Reflecting Larnaca’s love of its ancient past, ruins of the old city of Kitium can be found that reach back to the 13th century BC. Included amongst these remains are five temples, including the fine Phoenician Temple of Astarte. For further evidence of antiquity, check out the marble Bust of Zeno, dedicated to the founder of the Stoic philosophical school and Larnaca’s favourite son.

One of the finest buildings in the city is the Orthodox Church of Lazarus at the end of Agiou Lazarou Street. Erected in the 9th century by the-then Emperor Leo, the church was built over the tomb of St. Lazarus, and his marble sarcophagus can be found inside under the Holy of Holies. Reflecting the religious diversity of the city, another attraction is the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, remarkable for supposedly housing the tomb of Umm Haram, foster mother of Mohammed.

Larnaca also contains a number of museums, including the Larnaca District Archaeological Museum on Odos Kalograion (specialising in artefacts from the Neolithic to Roman periods), the Pierides Foundation Museum on Odos Zinonos Kitieos (with a collection of Cypriot pieces) and the Medieval Museum located in the Fort of Larnaca (itself a fabulous early 17th century building, which doubles up as a garden-theatre during the summer).

With 25 km of shoreline, the beaches of Larnaca are one of its major attractions. Of the four available, each one possesses its own unique quality, with Phinikoudes being an entertainment centre and providing boat trips from the marina, Makenzie reputedly the most beautiful, Faros a tourist hotspot and CTO the host of numerous sporting events and tournaments.

Alternatively, if you’d prefer a quiet stroll, head down to the Larnaca Municipal Garden in the Leoforos Grigori Afxentiou or the lovely Larnaca Salt Lake, which is visited by flamingos between November and March.

A number of festivals take place annually, including Kataklysmos some 40 days after the Greek orthodox Easter, which includes a ritualistic dip in the sea and a fair in the promenade.

Both AEK Larnaca FC and ALKI Larnaca FC, who play at the GSZ Stadium in the Cypriot First and Second Divisions respectively, represent football in Larnaca.

Shopping

The seafront promenade and beach-side streets are packed with shops for tourists. However, shoppers should also check out Zenon Kiteos Street, which hosts the city’s market.

Ermes Street is one of the many hotspots for local vendors, who specialise predominantly in jewellery.

Nightlife and Eating Out

You are never stuck for somewhere to eat in Larnaca, with local and international cuisine on offer. Restaurants catering to tourists can be found all around the seafront and Athinou Avenue.

For simple local cuisine, including the speciality Meze (a selection of appetizers similar to tapas), pop along to Militzis on Piale Pascha. However, The Bailey’s Irish Pub & Restaurant and Yu Shan Restaurant are just two examples of the many alternatives.

Laiki Yeitonia near the city centre is a decent area for bars and a few nightclubs, but if you’re looking to dance then the main spot is the Larnaca-Dhekelia Road.

If you’d prefer something quieter, why not stroll down the promenade or wander down to the 18th century Kamares Illuminated Aqueduct?

Tourist Information

CTO Tourist InformationPlateia Vasileos PavlouCY 6023LarnacaTel: +357 2465 4322www.visitcyprus.org.cy

Airport

Larnaca is served by Lanarca International Airport, some 6 km from the city itself. Taxis and buses are available from the airport.

Cyprus’ largest commercial airport, LIA is the only option for domestic and international connecting flights, particularly to continental Europe and Middle East locations.

British Airways, Cyprus Airways, Excel Airways and Thomsonfly all use LIA to and from Britain.