Limassol

Combing its roles as the second largest city of Cyprus, the island main port, the centre of wine industry and busting holiday resort, Limassol emerges as a spirited and cosmopolitan seaside town.

During the Crusades, Richard the Lion-Heart, leader of the Third Crusade, landed in Limassol (Lemesos), not incidentally to free a noblewoman held captive by the Byzantine sovereign.

The noblewoman? His betrothed, Berengaria of Navarre. In Limassol they married, touching off the most extravagant party Cyprus had ever seen.

Today, the tradition of celebration and hospitality continues in this vibrant seaside town. In February before Lent, masked revellers invade the street with music, parades, and dancing for Carnival. In September, the Wine Festival  explodes in Limassol for a week. And every night people in restaurants, cafes, and night-clubs celebrate events momentous and trivial, from a soccer win to a sudden romance to yet another stunning sunset at day's end.

Explore Limassol Castle, which contains the Cyprus Medieval Museum, or the Folk Art Museum, which is housed in an old mansion.

Walk on ten miles of beautiful beaches, deservedly known as the Cypriot Riviera. Stroll in the sea promenade or visit the lush Municipal Gardens. On the coastal road to the east, just after the luxurious hotels, you will find Amathus, one of the ancient city kingdoms of Cyprus. See the ruins and take a dip near the site of an ancient port.

At 14 km west of Limassol lies Kolossi Medieval Castle, a medieval fortress whose walls contain not only an imposing tower and surrounding living quarters but also an ancient sugar factory.

Just 19 km west of town, visit the Kourion archaeological site, an ancient city-kingdom, where you can take in a play or concert at the ancient Greco-Roman Theater, overlooking the blue Mediterranean. And, a bit further on, explore a treasure trove of Greek and Roman sites, such as the Sanctuary of Apollo.


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