Cyprus - Larnaka

The Larnaka Region

East meets West in Larnaka (Larnaca) as both Christianity and Islam have revered religious sites here, with the mosque of Hala Sultan, an important Moslem place of pilgrimage, and the church of St Lazarus, Jesus’ friend whom he resurrected from the dead.

The mountainous area of Larnaka (Larnaca), is dotted with charming villages and has the largest concentration of traditional houses available for rent.

The listed village of Lefkara, is perhaps the most picturesque, with its narrow streets and stone houses with red-tiled roofs and central courtyards, and a history of producing wonderful handicrafts such as filigree silverware and a traditional kind of lace known the world over as “lefkaritika”.

Legend has it that Leonardo da Vinci himself came here and bought an altar cloth, which he donated to Milan cathedral.

Amongst archaeological sites worth visiting, Choirokoitia is one of the best preserved sites of a prehistoric settlement brought to light in the Eastern Mediterranean, and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The church of Angeloktisti, in the village of Kiti, has one of the finest examples of Byzantine art of the Justinian period, a rare 6th century mosaic of the Virgin and Child between two archangels, while perched dramatically on a rocky peak with a panoramic view over the surrounding hillsides, sits the solitary monastery of Stavrovouni, one of the oldest monasteries in Cyprus.

Stavrovouni Monastery

Perched on a rocky peak, Stavrovouni means Mountain of the Cross. According to tradition; it was founded in the 4th century by the mother of Constantine the Great, Agia Eleni, who left a fragment of the Holy Cross at the monastery. The brotherhood is extremely devout, keeping vows as strict as those at Mount Athos in Greece. There is an impressive ceremony and celebrations on September 14th, the day of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross.

The Monastery of Agia Varvara (Saint Barbara) at the foot of Stavrovouni Hill is easily accessible. The monks here have a reputation for icon painting. Women are not allowed to visit Stavrovouni Monastery. Men may visit the monastery, but must be decently dressed. The use of cameras or video cameras is prohibited.

 Agios Lazaros Byzantine Museum

The Agios Lazaros Byzantine Museum is located next to the superb early 10th century stone church of Agios Lazaros, situated in the centre of Larnaka (Larnaca). The museum is actually housed in some of the cells of the hypostyle porch, still standing to the south of the church. Exhibits include important religious icons, artefacts and relics.

Choirokoitia (Linear) Nature Trail

The trail leads to Choirokoitia archaeological site, one of the most important settlements of the Neolithic period and a listed UNESCO World Heritage site.

Start Point: Road to Choirokoitia, just after the archaeological site parking area, opposite Tochni village turnoff and Agios Fanourios and Agios Nektarios churches. Reverse course from Choirokoitia village to the archaeological site is also possible.

Estimated Duration: 45 minutes

Difficulty Rate: Category 2: Average degree of difficulty, suitable for adults in fair to good fitness levels. Sudden changes in gradient (uphill and/or downhill), and/or course along narrow or rough terrain.

Road Conditions: The route is surfaced during its initial 800 metres. The final 800 metres are on uneven, narrow and steep loose surface road.

Trip Length: 2 kilometres