Cyprus
An island shaped by nature, defined by history…
Cyprus is where natural beauty and deep-rooted history come together in perfect harmony. From its crystal-clear coastlines and sunlit hills to its ancient ruins and centuries-old churches, the island offers a unique blend of scenic charm and cultural depth. Each village, monument, and stone pathway tells a story shaped by millennia of civilization and enriched by diverse influences. Whether exploring the vibrant coastline or wandering through historical mountain communities, visitors to Cyprus experience a land where the past lives on and beauty is ever-present.
The Traditional House
The Traditional House in Paralimni is a restored heritage building that showcases the rural lifestyle and culture of Cyprus in past centuries. Located in the town center, it features authentic Cypriot architecture, traditional furniture, tools, and household items. The house offers visitors a glimpse into daily life in Paralimni during the 19th and early 20th centuries, preserving the region’s rich folklore and history.
Cyprus is a country with strong traditions that are still alive today.
People in villages live a simple and friendly lifestyle, where family and hospitality are very important. During celebrations and festivals, Cypriots wear traditional clothes—men often wear a “vraka” (baggy trousers) and women wear colorful dresses with embroidery. They enjoy traditional dances like the sousta and tsamiko, which are full of energy and done in groups. Food also plays a big role in the culture, with dishes like halloumi, souvla, and meze shared at large family meals. All these customs show the rich tradition and strong community spirit of Cyprus.
Churches worth visiting
Religion has always been a central part of life in Cyprus, especially for the Greek Cypriot community. The majority of people follow the Greek Orthodox faith, and religious traditions are deeply respected. Churches are found in every town and village, often standing at the heart of the community. Many of these churches are ancient, dating back to Byzantine times, and are filled with beautiful icons, wall paintings, and stone architecture. Churches are not only places of worship but also part of the island’s rich history and identity.
Religion in Cyprus is more than belief—it is connected to family, culture, and national heritage.
Ayioi Saranta cave church
Ayioi Saranta Cave Church in Protaras is a hidden gem. Carved into the rocky cliffs overlooking the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, this enchanting cave church offers a unique and spiritual experience for visitors. The church is dedicated to Ayioi Saranta, or the Holy Forty Martyrs, and its interior showcases a simple yet serene ambiance adorned with religious icons and candles. The natural cave setting adds an element of mystique to the religious atmosphere, creating a tranquil space for contemplation and worship. Accessible by a scenic coastal path, the Ayioi Saranta Cave Church invites both pilgrims and tourists alike to explore its historical significance and embrace the breathtaking surroundings that make this site a captivating destination in Protaras.
Ayioi Anargiroi Church
The Ayioi Anargyroi Church is a small white chapel located on the cliffs of Cape Greco in Cyprus. Dedicated to Saints Cosmas and Damian, known as the Holy Unmercenaries (Agioi Anargyroi), the church is a peaceful place that offers stunning views of the sea. Built above a sea cave where the saints are believed to have lived or prayed, the church is not only a religious site but also a popular spot for visitors due to its natural beauty. It represents the deep connection between faith and nature in Cypriot culture, reminding people of the island’s strong religious roots and spiritual history.
The Church of Agios Nikolaos
The Church of Agios Nikolaos in Protaras is one of the most iconic and beloved chapels in Cyprus. It is located at Luma Beach, right next to the small fishing harbor of Protaras and close to the Golden Coast Beach Hotel. Built in traditional Cycladic style, with whitewashed walls and a blue dome, the church overlooks the beautiful blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors, it holds special significance due to its position by the sea and the harbor. It is a peaceful and spiritual place visited by both locals and tourists, and many people choose it for weddings and baptisms.
Monastery of Ayia Napa
The Ayia Napa Monastery, located in the center of Ayia Napa, Cyprus, dates back to around the 1500s during the Venetian period. It was built around a cave where, according to tradition, a hunter discovered a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary. The monastery features a mix of Gothic and Venetian architecture and includes a central church, an ancient fountain, and a centuries-old sycamore tree. Although it no longer functions as an active monastery, it serves as a cultural and historical site, attracting visitors year-round.
Aphrodite and Cyprus
The Goddess Born from the Sea…
Cyprus holds a special place in mythology as the birthplace of Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love, beauty, and desire. According to legend, she rose from the sea foam (aphros in Greek) near the shores of Paphos, on the southwestern coast of the islands
The myth tells us that after the titan Cronus threw the severed body of Uranus into the sea, the waters began to foam — and from that foam, Aphrodite emerged, fully formed and radiant. She stepped ashore at a site now known as Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock), a breathtaking coastal spot that remains one of the island’s most iconic landmarks.
The Baths of Aphrodite, nestled on the edge of the Akamas Peninsula, is a quiet grotto where legend says the goddess of love once bathed. Surrounded by lush greenery and flowing spring water, it’s a peaceful spot tied to the myth of her meeting Adonis — a place where nature and mythology come together in perfect harmony.
Discover the timeless beauty of Cyprus, where ancient history meets stunning Mediterranean landscapes
