Reading Time: 9 minutes

Larnaca, Cyprus

Region: Larnaca

---

Geographic Coordinates: 34.916700, 33.633300

Climate: Climate and weather patterns in Larnaca, Cyprus?

Population: 84900

Language: Greek

---

Larnaca, Located on the southern coast of Cyprus, Is a vibrant and historic city that offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, Stunning beaches, And modern amenities. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Larnaca boasts a rich history that dates back over 4, 000 years. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Larnaca Salt Lake. This natural salt pan transforms into a picturesque pink hue during certain times of the year due to its high salt concentration and algae growth.

The lake also serves as an important migratory bird sanctuary where thousands of flamingos gather each winter. Larnaca’s historical center is home to several notable attractions. The impressive Larnaca Castle was originally built in the 12th century as a Byzantine fortification before being expanded by the Ottomans and later converted into a prison during British rule. Today, It houses an interesting museum showcasing artifacts from various periods. Another must-visit site in Larnaca is Hala Sultan Tekke, One of Islam’s holiest shrines outside Saudi Arabia.

This beautiful mosque complex stands on the shores of Salt Lake and attracts both Muslim pilgrims and curious tourists with its serene atmosphere and stunning architecture. For beach lovers, Finikoudes Beach is an absolute paradise. With its golden sands stretching along palm-lined promenades overlooking crystal-clear waters, It offers a perfect spot for sunbathing or enjoying various water sports activities like jet skiing or windsurfing. To delve deeper into Cypriot culture and history, Visitors can explore Stavrovouni Monastery situated atop a mountain peak near Larnaca.

Founded in AD 327 by Saint Helena (mother of Constantine I), This ancient monastery provides breathtaking panoramic views while offering spiritual solace to monks residing there. Larnaca also boasts an excellent culinary scene where visitors can savor traditional Cypriot dishes alongside international cuisine. The city’s vibrant nightlife scene is centered around Mackenzie Beach, Where numerous bars and clubs cater to all tastes, From laid-back beachside lounges to lively music venues. With its fascinating history, Stunning natural landscapes, Beautiful beaches, And vibrant atmosphere, Larnaca truly offers something for everyone.

Whether you are seeking cultural immersion or relaxation under the Mediterranean sun, This captivating city will leave you with unforgettable memories of your time in Cyprus.

---

---

1. Larnaca Salt Lake: A natural salt lake that attracts flocks of flamingos during the winter months.
2. Larnaca Castle: Also known as Fort St. Lazarus, this medieval fort houses a small museum and offers panoramic views of the city.
3. Hala Sultan Tekke: A beautiful mosque located on the shores of the Salt Lake, considered one of the holiest Islamic sites in Cyprus.
4. Finikoudes Promenade: The main beachfront promenade lined with palm trees, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
5. Saint Lazarus Church: A stunning Byzantine church dating back to the 9th century AD, believed to house the tomb of Saint Lazarus.
6. Pierides Museum – Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation: An archaeological museum showcasing Cypriot antiquities from various historical periods.
7. Kamares Aqueduct: A well-preserved ancient aqueduct built during Ottoman rule that supplied water to Larnaca’s old town.
8. Choirokoitia Neolithic Settlement: Located just outside Larnaca, this UNESCO World Heritage site is an ancient village dating back over 9,000 years.
9. Zenobia Wreck Dive Site: Considered one of the best diving spots in Europe, it is home to a sunken ferry that attracts divers from around the world.
10. Mackenzie Beach: A popular sandy beach known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars and clubs.

---

1. Tourism: Larnaca is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world. The city has beautiful beaches, historical sites such as the Larnaca Castle and St. Lazarus Church, and a vibrant nightlife. As a result, there are numerous hotels, resorts, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues catering to tourists.
2. Shipping: Larnaca has a significant maritime industry due to its strategic location on the southern coast of Cyprus. The city’s port serves as an important hub for cargo shipping and cruise liners.
3. Education: Larnaca is home to several educational institutions ranging from primary schools to universities. These institutions contribute to the local economy by providing employment opportunities and attracting students from both Cyprus and abroad.
4. Services: Various service industries thrive in Larnaca such as banking, finance, insurance companies, legal services firms, accounting firms, real estate agencies, and consultancy services.
5. Agriculture: Although not as prominent as some other sectors in Larnaca’s economy, agriculture plays a role in the region’s economy with cultivation of crops like olives and citrus fruits.
6. Trade & Commerce: There are numerous retail shops ranging from small boutiques to large shopping centers offering various products including clothing, accessories, electronics, etc.

Overall, Larnaca benefits greatly from its tourism industry along with shipping, trade, commerce, education, and services, contributing significantly to its economic growth.

---

Historical Events

1. Ancient Kition: Larnaca was originally known as Kition and was one of the most important city-kingdoms in ancient Cyprus. It flourished between the 13th and 4th centuries BCE.
2. Phoenician Influence: The Phoenicians, a seafaring civilization, established colonies in Kition around the 9th century BCE, contributing to its growth and cultural exchange.
3. St. Lazarus Church: The Church of St. Lazarus is an iconic landmark in Larnaca built during the 9th century AD over the tomb of St. Lazarus, who is said to have been resurrected by Jesus Christ.
4. Ottoman Rule: From 1570 to 1878, Larnaca was under Ottoman rule along with the rest of Cyprus after being conquered by the Ottomans from Venetian control.
5. British Colonization: Following Ottoman rule, Cyprus came under British administration in 1878 until it gained independence in 1960.
6. Hala Sultan Tekke: Located near Larnaca Salt Lake, Hala Sultan Tekke is a prominent Muslim shrine believed to be built on top of Umm Haram’s tomb – Prophet Muhammad’s wet nurse who died during an Arab raid on Cyprus in AD 649.
7. Zenon Kitieos Street Excavations: In recent years, archaeological excavations on Zenon Kitieos Street have unearthed significant Roman-era remains including well-preserved mosaic floors and public buildings dating back to around the second century AD.

Notable People

1. Zeno of Citium (334-262 BCE): Zeno was born in Kition (Larnaca) and became one of ancient Greece’s most influential philosophers. He founded the Stoic school of philosophy.
2. St. Lazarus: According to Christian tradition, St. Lazarus was resurrected by Jesus Christ and became the first Bishop of Kition (Larnaca). His tomb is located in the Church of St. Lazarus.
3. Glafcos Clerides (1919-2013): Clerides was a prominent Cypriot politician who served as the fourth President of Cyprus from 1993 to 2003.
4. Tasos Papadopoulos (1934-2008): Papadopoulos served as the fifth President of Cyprus from 2003 until his death in 2008, playing a significant role in negotiations for a solution to the Cyprus problem.
5. Vassilis Michaelides (1849-1917): Michaelides was an influential Cypriot poet born in Larnaca known for his patriotic poetry and contributions to Cypriot literature.

These are just some examples of notable historical events and people associated with Larnaca showcasing its cultural heritage and significance throughout different periods in history.

---

1. Larnaca Salt Lake: A natural landmark and a protected area, known for its stunning pink flamingos during the winter months.
2. Hala Sultan Tekke: A beautiful mosque situated on the banks of Larnaca Salt Lake, with historical and religious significance.
3. Larnaca Castle: Originally built as a medieval fort, it now houses the District Medieval Museum showcasing artifacts from various periods of Cyprus’ history.
4. Pierides Museum – Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation: A museum displaying an extensive collection of Cypriot antiquities, including pottery, sculptures, and jewelry.
5. Agios Lazaros Church: An Orthodox church dating back to the 9th century AD, known for its impressive architecture and religious importance.
6. Kamares Aqueduct: A well-preserved ancient aqueduct built in the 18th century to supply water to Larnaca city.
7. Europe Square (Plateia Evropis): A vibrant square surrounded by cafes and restaurants offering a great atmosphere for relaxation and people-watching.
8. Larnaca Fort (Larnaka Medieval Castle): Another medieval fortification with a rich history that now serves as a cultural center hosting art exhibitions and events.
9. Pierides Archaeological Foundation Museum: Showcasing an extensive collection of archaeological finds from ancient Kition (present-day Larnaca) dating back thousands of years.
10. Finikoudes Promenade: The bustling waterfront promenade lined with palm trees offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea along with numerous cafes, bars, and shops to explore.
11. Lazarus Tomb- The tomb is believed by many Greek Orthodox Christians to be the final resting place of Lazarus who Jesus resurrected from dead.
12. Mackenzie Beach- Popular among tourists for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant nightlife scene.
13. Ayia Napa Monastery- Located nearby in Ayia Napa, this 16th-century monastery is a historical and religious site worth visiting.

---

---

1. AEK Larnaca FC: Founded in 1994, AEK Larnaca FC is one of the most successful football (soccer) teams in Cyprus. They have won multiple Cypriot Championships and Cups throughout their history.
2. Enosis Neon Paralimni FC: Although not based in Larnaca itself, Enosis Neon Paralimni FC is a football team from the nearby town of Paralimni. They have competed in the top division of Cypriot football for many seasons.
3. Omonia Aradippou FC: Another football team located near Larnaca, Omonia Aradippou has participated in various divisions of Cypriot football since its establishment.
4. GSZ Stadium: The GSZ Stadium, also known as Tasos Markou Stadium, is a multi-purpose stadium located in Larnaca and serves as the home ground for several local sports clubs and national teams.
5. Nea Salamina Famagusta FC: Although originally from Famagusta (now under Turkish control), Nea Salamina Famagusta FC has been based in Larnaca since 1974 due to political conflicts on the island. They have had success both domestically and internationally over the years.
6. Ermis Aradippou BC: Ermis Aradippou BC is a basketball club based in Aradippou near Larnaca that competes at different levels within Cyprus’ basketball leagues.

These are just a few examples of sports teams associated with or near Larnaca, Cyprus, each with its own unique history within their respective sports disciplines.

---

---

1. Kataklysmos Festival: Also known as the Festival of the Flood, it takes place in June and celebrates the Holy Spirit and water. The festival includes boat races, swimming competitions, live music performances, traditional dances, and various water-related activities.
2. Larnaca Summer Festival: Held from June to September, this festival offers a wide range of events such as theater performances, concerts by local and international artists, dance shows, art exhibitions, and film screenings.
3. Larnaca Carnival: Celebrated in February or March before Lent begins in the Christian calendar. It features colorful parades with floats depicting satirical themes or popular characters. People dress up in costumes and masks while enjoying music and dancing on the streets.
4. Kataklysmos Fair: Coinciding with the Kataklysmos Festival in June is a fair held along Larnaca’s seafront promenade (Phinikoudes). The fair showcases traditional Cypriot crafts like pottery making demonstrations, woodwork displays, handmade jewelry stalls, local food specialties for sale like loukoumades (honey balls), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), etc.
5. Byzantine Music Festival: Dedicated to Byzantine hymns and religious music traditions of Cyprus’ Orthodox Church heritage; this festival takes place annually at Agios Lazaros Church during November or December.
6. Floods Wine Festival: Celebrated in August-September at Lefkara village near Larnaca; it offers visitors an opportunity to taste locally produced wines while enjoying traditional Cypriot music performances.
7. Pierides Museum Art & Culture Events: Throughout the year at Pierides Museum located within an old mansion house in downtown Larnaca; they organize art exhibitions showcasing works by both local artists as well as international artists.

These are just a few examples, and Larnaca also hosts other events like religious processions, traditional music concerts, and local food festivals that vary from year to year. It’s always worth checking the local tourism websites or contacting the Larnaca Municipality for an updated list of events during your visit.

---

1. Meze: A traditional Cypriot meal consisting of multiple small dishes, such as grilled meats, salads, dips, and seafood. Many restaurants in Larnaca offer meze options.
2. Souvlaki: Grilled skewers of marinated meat (usually pork or chicken) served with pita bread and various toppings like tzatziki sauce and vegetables.
3. Fish Taverns: Larnaca is known for its fresh seafood, so visiting a fish tavern is a must. These restaurants offer a wide variety of fish dishes cooked in traditional Cypriot style.
4. Kleftiko: A slow-cooked lamb dish marinated with garlic, lemon juice, and herbs until it becomes tender and flavorful.
5. Ttavas: A traditional Cypriot stew made with beef or lamb cooked in red wine with potatoes and herbs.
6. Zephyros Restaurant: Located near the Finikoudes promenade, this restaurant offers a mix of international cuisine along with local specialties like souvlaki and fresh fish dishes.
7. Militzis Restaurant: Known for its delicious souvlaki wraps filled with grilled meat or halloumi cheese along with various toppings.
8. To Kazani Traditional Taverna: This taverna serves authentic Cypriot cuisine including meze platters filled with local delicacies like halloumi cheese, lountza (smoked pork), afelia (pork cooked in red wine), and more.
9. Psarolimano Fish Taverna: Situated near the Larnaca Marina, this taverna specializes in fresh seafood dishes like grilled octopus, calamari rings, sea bass fillet etc., all accompanied by stunning sea views.
10. Ermou Street Food Market: Located on Ermou Street in central Larnaca’s old town area, this food market offers a variety of local street food options like souvlaki, kebabs, gyros, and traditional Cypriot pastries.

---

1. Finikoudes Beach: A popular sandy beach with clear blue waters, lined with palm trees and a promenade that offers various water sports activities.
2. Mackenzie Beach: Another beautiful beach known for its shallow waters and soft sand, offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and beach games.
3. Salt Lake: A natural wetland located near the city center that attracts flamingos during winter months. It is an ideal spot for bird-watching and nature walks.
4. Larnaca Marina: A picturesque marina where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade or dine at one of the waterfront restaurants while watching boats sail by.
5. Larnaca Salt Lake Park: Located next to the Salt Lake, this park offers walking paths surrounded by greenery where visitors can relax or have a picnic while enjoying views of the lake.
6. Athinon Avenue Promenade: This long promenade stretches along the coastline of Larnaca offering scenic views of the sea, as well as various cafes, bars, and shops to explore.
7. Municipal Gardens (Park): Situated in the heart of Larnaca town center, this park provides shaded areas with benches for relaxation amidst lush greenery and beautiful flowers.
8. Kamares Aqueduct: An ancient aqueduct located on the outskirts of Larnaca that offers a unique setting for walking or cycling tours while exploring historical architecture.
9. Camel Park Mazotos: Located outside Larnaca in Mazotos village, this park allows visitors to interact with camels through rides or feeding experiences while also offering other family-friendly activities such as playgrounds and swimming pools.
10. Zygi Marina & Fishing Shelter: Situated in Zygi village near Larnaca, this marina is known for its fresh seafood restaurants where visitors can enjoy delicious meals overlooking the fishing boats and the Mediterranean Sea.

---

---