Larnaca
Discover the charms of Larnaca, the third-largest city in Cyprus with ancient ruins, religious landmarks, and scenic beaches.
The other famous resort of Cyprus is the city of Larnaca. It is the third-largest city in the country near the south coast. Larnaca serves as the main gateway to the island because of its international airport. It is built on the ruins of ancient Citium, which was the birthplace of Stoic philosopher Zeno. One of the main attractions of Larnaka is the Orthodox Byzantine church of St. Lazarus. The church was built in the IX century on the site of the grave of Lazarus, who was a disciple and ascetic of Jesus Christ and Bishop of Kition for many years. On the shore of the salt lake is the 4th most important Muslim Islamic shrine in the Islamic world — the Khala Sultan Tekke mosque. The mosque is built over a sarcophagus where the aunt of the prophet Muhammad is buried. Salt Lake is remarkable for the fact that pink flamingos arrive here in winter. Another attraction of the city — the famous central seafront promenade called Finikoudes, from where you can enjoy stunning views of the bay with snow-white yachts.
Also, the resort is interesting for fans of scuba diving, since in the Larnaka area there is a sunken ferry Zinovia. This facility for underwater exploration is one of the best in the world.
The most important place of Cypriots is religion. The main part of the population of the island is Orthodox Christians, and the Greek Orthodox Church is one of the oldest in the world. Religion permeates the life of the islanders entirely, and this manifests itself in many things. For example, the main holidays on the island are religious ones. The most important holidays here are Easter and Christmas. Easter time in Cyprus is a wonderful period to be on the island. It is a joyous time of year. Cypriots welcome strangers with their renowned warmth and friendliness to join in the fun as Eastertime is the largest festive period in the Greek Orthodox calendar year.
Stavrovouni Monastery was founded by Saint Helena (Saint Constantine’s mother) in around 327–329 AD and therefore it is one of the oldest monasteries in the world. The most significant relic that Stavrovouni Monastery possesses is a piece of the Holy Cross, left at the monastery by Saint Helena.
