Cyprus: City of Larnaca - Part 6

The Agios Minas convent is situated in Kato Drys village 39km from Larnaca. The convent dates back to the 15th century with Byzantine and Gothic styles. On the North and South walls there are two large paintings of Agios Georgios and Agios Minas dated 1757.

Stavrovouni monastery is 40km west of Larnaca. The monastery is perched on a rocky peak 750m above the sea. Legend has it that it was founded in the 4th century by Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine the Great, who left a relic of the Holy Cross at the monastery. The monks have strict rules like those at Mount Athos in Greece and women may not enter the monastery. A ceremony and festival is held here on the 14th September which is the day of the Raising of the Holy Cross. The monastery of Agia Varvara on the foothills of Stavrovouni is accessible to all visitors and the monks here are known for their iconography skills.

One of the most important Byzantine churches in Cyprus is Agios Antonios which is situated at Kellia village 10km north of Larnaca. It is a three-aisled vaulted basilica which once had a dome and contains important wall paintings from the 9th, 11th and 13th centuries.

The Ancient Kition is located in the north west of Larnaca and features some temples that date back to 13th century B. C. The ones that are worth visiting are the Phoenician Temple of Astarte and the city walls. The ruins of the temple were built on an earlier Bronze Age temple and are dedicated to goddess Astarte.

St Lazarus Church is an important religious site in Larnaca and was built in 9th century A. D. It is devoted to St. Lazarus who is said to have lived in Kition for about 30 years after his resurrection by Christ. It is believed that the church is erected upon the empty grave of the saint, who is actually buried in France. Each year 8 days before Easter, the icon of Saint Lazarus is carried in a procession through the streets of Larnaca.

Phinikoudes beach is famous in south Cyprus, the name comes from small palm trees which were planted here in 1922. The area around the beach has many cafes, restaurants, bars and hotels. Many facilities are provided for visitors, such as lifeguards, sun beds, umbrellas and water sports.

Finally take a trip to the Camel Park at Mazotos; it is just 15 minutes away from Larnaca. The Camel Park, apart from rides, offers a play area for children, swimming pool and a restaurant where you can enjoy local delicacies.