Marked by the past, shaping-up for the future

Just 30 minutes away from both international airports of the island, Limassol stretches along a 15km coastline and combines harmonically the relaxed safe lifestyle of an island with the opportunities of a metropolitan city.

Diving in the Middle ages when the royal wedding between Richard the Lionheart, King of England, and Berengaria of Navarre took place at the Limassol medieval castle, and surfacing to the 21st century with some of the worlds biggest shipping companies, and all big international audit firms having a strong presence, Limassol has always been a multicultural city and the islands favourite spot for offshore companies.

Boasting some of the islands finest hotels, Limassol welcomes hundreds of thousands of tourists all around the year. Along with the well known fun loving and hospitable “Limassolians” tourists enjoy a varied nightlife, some of the islands finest restaurants, great golfing nearby, a history going back over 3000 years and only a 30 minute drive away the “Green diamond of Cyprus” the Troodos mountains. Rising almost 2000m above sea level, Troodos area is a nature fans heaven with its clearly marked trails, a wine connoisseur’s delightful surprise with its vineyards and family owned wineries, and a culture lovers treasure hunt challenge through the quaint little villages and the famous Unesco Heritage List enlisted Byzantine churches and impressive monasteries.

The commencement of operation since 2007 of the Cyprus University of Technology right in the old city centre has brought new life in this area, and the continuous upgrading of this part of the city.

Past though is past and present will soon be part of it, so looking into the future, Limassol is shaping up…

A big part of the coastal frontline has been revamped enabling Limassol citizens & visitors alike to enjoy long strolls along the seafront, with plans to extend this to the city’s full stretch up to the new port.

Limassol’s old port with a multimillion revamp project planned to finish by 2012 aims to restore the ports lost glimpse.

Right next to the old port another multimillion project planned to be finished by 2012 that of the Limassol Marina. This project will be the first of its kind on the island, with around 600 berths.

Further plans for this area, include a new road running through the seafront up to the new port and a conference centre a few hundred meters away from the marina, which all together aim to bring life to a long abandoned area, and transform it into a “model compact” city in Cyprus, with advanced infrastructure for multinational companies and high end residential areas.

Vision of the municipality of Limassol is to transform this area into the financial centre of Cyprus, taking advantage of the islands EU status on one hand and its location on the other, as Cyprus has been a full member of the EU since 2004 and sitting at the far south east tip of the Mediterranean, it is Europe’s last frontier to the Middle East & South Africa.

Another multimillion project aimed to be finished again by 2012, that of the upgrading of the Limassol new port, with a new passenger terminal, the dredging of the port to 16m, the extension of the southern quay by 500m, and the upgrading of equipment, stacking areas and warehouses, aim to make the Limassol port the biggest in Eastern Mediterranean.

Last but not least, a few kilometres away in the southern tip of Limassol, plans for an 18 hole golf course, and the recent development of the islands largest shopping mall featuring 150 retail outlets, 17 cafes and restaurants and an ice skating ring, along with a new bypass road which will ease traffic from the new port & facilitate connection of the area to Paphos, Nicosia, Larnaka & the Troodos mountains through the motorway, aim to sprout new developments in an area, which will feature a peaceful, quiet and green lifestyle status yet only a few minutes drive away from the city.

Along these lines, and only as a natural development of the Leptos Group visionary culture, Leptos Estates is planning some exciting projects with truly luxury properties in the city of Limassol all along the city’s coast line from East to West to be announced soon!!!

Limassol – Where business meets pleasure

   • Ideally located, 40m drive from both International airports of Larnaca & Paphos
   • Cosmopolitan city with 200,000 thousand inhabitants
   • Island’s upmarket tourist resort
   • Round the year activity (nightlife, restaurants, bars, tavernas)
   • Covers a 15k coastline with safe, sandy blue flag beaches
   • 2-in-1: Business Centre in a safe sea resort environment
   • Islands hot spot for shipping, IT & other international company’s HQs
    • Home for some of the islands biggest law firms
    • Promenade area along the coastline
    • Shopping streets, centres, and the islands biggest mall
    • Excellent medical care
    • Excellent education:
    • Base of the Cyprus University of Technology
    • Famous fun loving Limassolians
    • 30 minutes drive away from Troodos Range
    • Rich in culture & archaeology
    • Major Cultural & Sports Events:
    • Shaping up plans for:
    • Islands 1st Marina (in progress)
    • Refurbishment of the old port into a picturesque harbour with restaurants, cafes,   fishing boats etc, with a truly Mediterranean flair (in progress)
    • Continuous upgrade of the inner city’s historical area (in progress)
    • Upgrading of the new port to eastern Mediterranean’s biggest transit port (in progress)
    • Extension of the coastal road all along the cities seafront (plans)
    • Islands 1st conference centre (plans)
    • Golf course (plans)

PLACES OF INTEREST AROUND LIMASSOL

1st Local Route of Lemesos Religious Route
This route starts from Cyprus Mediaeval Museum, which is located inside the Castle of Lemesos (Limassol) and covers with its exhibits a time period of approximately 1.500 years. The next stop is at the church of Agios Efstathios in Kolossi, a church which dates back to the 12th century, which, in its interior significant frescoes of the 15th century have been salvaged. In the picturesque village of Omodos there is the Monastery of Timios Stavros, which according to tradition, had been established by Agia Eleni and it is here that “Agios Kannavos”, that is, a piece of the rope which tied Jesus Christ on the Cross is kept. The church of Agia Mavri, located in Koilani, used to be a small monastery while the church of Monogenous is the second parish church of Koilani and dates back to the 17th century. The church of Panagia is a church which also hosts the Ecclesiastical Museum of Koilani. Τhe last stop of this route is at the church of Τimios Stavros in the village of Kouka, which dates back to the 12th century, in which there are preserved frescoes of the 14th and 15th centuries.

Total route length: 72 kilometres.
Start Point:    Cyprus Mediaeval Museum (inside the Castle of Lemesos)
End Point:    Church of Τimios Stavros, Kouka, Lemesos

2nd Local Route of Lemesos Religious Route
The second route of Lemesos (Limassol) starts from Pano Polemidia and the church of Αgia Anastasia, which is the cluster of two separate churches and have frescoes of the 15th as well as the 17th centuries. In Monagri village, there are many significant churches such as the Monastery of Panagia tis Amasgou with excellent samples of the 12th, 13th and 16th centuries. The Μonastery of Archangel west of Monagri village, has been reconstructed and is used as a Fine Arts school. The church of Αgios Georgios, also in Monagri, is the parish church of the village and has frescoes of the 15th century. The Μonastery of Timios Stavros, in Kouka village, dates back to the 12th century and is the only building amongst a series of monastery buildings which has been salvaged to this day. The last stop of this route is at the Μonastery of Timios Prodromos in Mesa Potamos; its date of establishment is not known, however, it has been recently reconstructed revealing frescoes of the 15th century.

Total route length: 56 kilometres.
Start Point:    Church of Αgia Anastasia, Pano Polemidia
End Point:    Μonastery of Timios Prodromos, Mesa Potamos

3rd Local Route of Lemesos Religious Route
The first stop of this route of Lemesos (Limassol) is in Parekklisia and the Church of Timios Stavros, which houses some very significant frescoes of Italian-Byzantine style. In Kellaki, there is the Church of Agios Georgios with its very interesting wood carved iconostasis, a work made under Turkish rule. In the Church of Agios Nikolaos, in Klonari, there are wonderful frescoes of the 16th century, a magnificent iconostasis and the icons which decorate it are quite interesting for the visitor. In Vikla, there is the Church of Agios Ioannis tou Eleimona, the only building which has been salvaged in this abandoned village. The route then stops at the Church of Agios Georgios tis Akapnou, which is the parish church of the village.

The visit to the Church of Panagia tis Iamatikis in Arakapa is an unforgettable experience. From the inscription, we find out that it was destroyed for some reason and rebuilt in 1727. In Louvara lies the Church of Agios Mamas which is built in 1455 although it was decorated forty years later by painter Philippos Wool.

Total route length: 6 kilometres.
Start Point:    Church of Timios Stavros, Parekklisia
End Point:    Church of Agios Mamas, Louvaras

Agia Christina Church
Situated in the centre of Germasogeia village, this church was built in the 12th century and restored in 1996 during which 14th and 15th century wall paintings were uncovered under the plaster and restored. The church also houses an ecclesiastic museum.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Germasogeia, Lemesos
Operating Period:    All year round

 
Agios Nikolaos ton Gaton Convent
Situated on Cape Gata south east of Akrotiri Salt Lake near Lemesos (Limassol), Agios Nikolaos ton Gaton (St Nicholas of the Cats) is perhaps the first monastery in Cyprus. The present church probably dates to the late 14th century. Abandoned in the late 16th century, it was re-occupied by Orthodox nuns in the early 1980s. According to tradition, the monastery was founded in the 4th century by Agia Eleni, mother of Constantine the Great, who left a piece of wood from the Holy Cross there. At the time, the island was experiencing a severed rought, forcing many people to leave the island. Snakes multiplied and life in Cyprus, particularly at Akrotiri peninsula was unbearable. According to the medieval historian Stephen Lusignan, after Agia Eleni's departure, Constantine the Great sent governor Kalokeros to Cyprus who brought thousands of cats to the island to exterminate the snakes.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Cape Gata, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Daily: 08:00 - 17:00
Operating Period:    All year round

Agora of Amathous
In antiquity, a city’s agora was the traditional hub for commercial and political activities. In Amathous, the agora was a large rectangular stone - paved area, flanked by porticoes on three sides and a monumental square fountain in the centre. The small rooms at the back of the west portico were used as shops. Along the open, fourth side on the south ran the main road of the lower city. On the other side were the Hellenistic baths. Roman baths were found on the east of the east portico. The many buildings surrounding the agora played an important role in the public life of the city.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Amathous, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Daily: 09:00 - 17:00 (November - March), 09:00 - 18:00 (April - May, September - October), 09:00 - 19:30 (June - August)
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    1,71 Euro

Amathous Aphrodite Cultural Route
The ancient city kingdom of Amathous on the Bay of Lemesos (Limassol) was probably founded by Greek Mycenaean settlers in the 12th to the 11th centuries BC and was one of the most important kingdoms where Kyprida Aphrodite was celebrated. The ruins of the temple of Aphrodite can be seen at the main archaeological site of Amathous. The District Museum of Lemesos complements the visit with in-depth information about the celebrated goddess. The acropolis with the Sanctuary of Aphrodite has no official entrance. Visitors are asked to use the official entrance to the lower city site and walk up the stairs leading to the top of the acropolis. This visit is not recommended for people with walking difficulties.
Start Point:    Acropolis of Ancient Amathous
End Point:    Lemesos District Museum

Amathous Archaeological Site
One of the most important city - kingdoms of ancient Cyprus, Amathous is situated about 10 kilometres east of Lemesos (Limassol). According to mythology it was founded by King Kinyras and was also where Theseus left the pregnant Ariadne to be cared for after his battle with the Minotaur. It is difficult to establish exactly when the city was founded, but human presence dating back to around 1100 B.C has been traced in the Acropolis area. Over the centuries, Amathous fell victim to many conquerors (Persians, Ptolemies, Romans and Byzantines) until it was finally destroyed and abandoned in the 7th century A.D. as a result of the Arab invasions.

By the Archaic period, the city was fortified with strong walls that were further reinforced in the Hellenistic period. The southeast walls suffered serious damage from earthquakes in the 4th century. The sections defending the Acropolis were rebuilt under Justinian (527 - 565 A.D.). Later, the southeast walls were rebuilt while the north and east sections were restored in the face of the Arab threat in the 7th century.

The city of Amathous developed on two levels – the lower and the upper city (Acropolis). Excavations have brought to light the Agora complex with the stoae (covered walks), baths and other adjacent buildings, four basilicas, the sanctuary of Aphrodite, an aqueduct and the harbour, which nowadays lies under the sea level. Outside the walls lie the east and west necropolis.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Amathous, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Daily: 08:00 - 17:00 (November - March), 08:00 - 18:00 (April - May, September - October), 08:00 - 19:30 (June - August)
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    1,71 Euro

Amathous Harbour
Amathous Harbour was constructed during the Hellenistic period by Demetrios Polirketes. It consisted of two parts, the outer and the inner port. The outer port measured around 100 metres by 180 metres and was delineated by wharves in the east and a breakwater in the south. Access was through an opening on the east wharf. The port had a short life as it soon silted up and the sea level dropped.

By the 3rd century B.C. the harbour was used only by fishermen and by the 1st century A.D. was completely dry. Today it lies below sea level, but is easy to distinguish.

The inner port stood behind the outer port and was where mariners moored their ships in order to protect them from bad weather. It was abandoned quite early because of the silting up of the outer port.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Amathous, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Daily: 09:00 - 17:00 (November - March), 09:00 - 18:00 (April - May, September - October), 09:00 - 19:30 (June - August)
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    1,71 Euro

Ancient Amathous - Governor's Beach Cycling Route
This15 kilometres excursion is for mountain bike fanatics who will appreciate the technical difficulties involved. Although there are few changes in gradient, a large part is on rocky ground and requires a good sense of balance and technical skills. It starts where the Lemesos (Limassol) - ancient Amathous route ends, continuing in the same direction along the old Lemesos - Lefkosia (Nicosia) road for 5 kilometres as far as the Moni fly over. There it turns off onto a dirt road to the right and heads south towards the coast. It goes past a number of industrial units as well as the Moni quarry where it turns left heading east. This part of the route is full of cycling thrills. It ends up at Governor’s Beach. Halfway along the route (about 4 kilometres) is a biological waste-processing unit. Just before the uphill leading to the unit, there is a narrow path carved out of the cliff on the right that descends to the dry riverbed of Agios Georgios Alamanos. The road at the riverbed is smoother and heads north for about 600 metres before turning right in order to cross to the other side. It is not far from there to the coast, with Governor’s Beach 5 kilometres away.
Start Point:    Ancient Amathous
End Point:    Governor’s Beach
Total Distance:    15 kilometres
Difficulty Rate:    Hard and uneven surface. It requires a good quality mountain bike with 24 speeds and front fork suspension.
Road Conditions:    Apart from the first 5 kilometres of paved roads, the rest of the route is on an uneven surface

Baths of Amathous
Within the Amathous Archaeological site are baths of the Hellenistic and Roman periods. South of the agora is a public bath of the Hellenistic period consisting of a circular building and some other rooms just to the north. The entrance to the complex was in the north. The first room was an oblong hall – probably used as a roofed palestra or for races. On through the other rooms is a circular structure (tholos) that was the main bath. The warm water cistern was in the centre of the room while the bath tubes (pyeloi) were arranged peripherally around it. Behind the east portico of the Agora of Amathous is a small building that has been identified as a Roman bath. The main entrance was on the north side of the building. Through it, the visitor entered first into the dressing room and then into the room for the cold bath (frigidarium). Traces of wall paintings have been found on the walls of both rooms. At the west of the frigidarium is a small vaulted room serving as the antechamber for the next room to its north, the caldarium (room for the hot bath). Finally, at the north of the caldarium is the furnace room.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Amathous, Lemesos
Operating Period:    All year round

 
Carob Museum
The Carob Mill in Lemesos (Limassol) was originally built in the early 1900s when carobs were one of the main exports of Cyprus. They were used in the manufacture of such products as film, medicine, sweets and chocolates. Most of the machinery used in processing the carobs is intact and exhibited in a building that has been renovated so as to combine the authentic atmosphere of the past with the sophisticated high tech look of the present.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Vasilissis Street, (behind Lemesos Medieval Castle) Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Open daily
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    Free entrance

Carob Museum and Factory - Mavros Chrysos
Unique museum housed in a traditional stone building devoted to the history of carob, including a guided tour about carob production. In the carob factory witness a demonstration of carob toffee making and taste-test a variety of traditional products such as pasteli.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    15 Oinopoiiou, Anogyra, Lemesos
Operating Period:    Open daily: 9:00 – 19:00
Entrance Fee:    3.00 Euro with a 15 minutes tour

Cyprus Wine Museum
Situated in the heart of the wine producing countryside a short distance from Lemesos (Limassol) in the village of Erimi, the Cyprus Wine Museum will take you on a journey through the history of wine making in Cyprus. Photographic back drops and audiovisual presentations as well as ancient jars and vases, medieval drinking vessels, old documents and instruments encompass all aspects of wine production.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Pafos Street 42, Erimi, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Daily: 09:00 - 17:00
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    4,28 Euro (including a glass of wine)

Fassoula Agricultural Museum
The Agricultural Museum at Fassoula is housed in a traditional house and contains agricultural tools such as a plough, a yoke, scythe and earthenware jars to store wine or olive oil, as well as everyday objects.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Fassoula, Lemesos
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    Free entrance

Germasogeia - Polemidia Cycling Route
This 63,5 kilometres excursion goes through the eastern villages of the Lemesos (Limassol) district as well as some of the mountain villages in the foothills of the Pitsylia region such as Agros. You can also go down towards Palaichori along the routes of the Lefkosia (Nicosia) district. The route heads north, starting at Germasogeia roundabout. Climbing through the village, it goes past Germasogeia Dam and the villages of Akrounta, Dierona and Arakapas. At Arakapas, the route turns west and continues climbing steadily to the village of Kalo Chorio where it meets the Lemesos  - Pitsylia road. Heading in the direction of Lemesos, a short distance down the road and to the right is the dirt road that leads to Agios Mamas. From Agios Mamas the route begins to descend along a paved road, passing through the villages of Kapileio and Korfi to reach the roundabout of Polemidia on the outskirts of Lemesos.
Start Point:    Germasogeia
End Point:    Polemidia - Lemesos
Total Distance:    63,5 kilometres
Difficulty Rate:    Average. It requires a mountain bike with at least 21 speeds.
Road Conditions:    A combination of paved and dirt roads.
Height Gain:    840 metres
 
Germasogeia dam (Circular) Nature Trail
The trail goes round a small land peninsula extending into the dam. The dam has been enriched with various kinds of fish. Angling is permitted with a special license that can be obtained from the Fisheries Department. To the south of the trail there is a short 150 metres path, where the endemic plant species Bosea cypria may be seen.
Start Point:    Foinikaria to Prastio road, by the eastern side of Germasogeia dam
End Point:    Germasogeia dam
Estimated Duration:    30 minutes
Difficulty Rate:    Category 1: Easy trail, with gentle gradient. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Trip Length:    1,3 kilometres

Kolossi Medieval Castle
Kolossi Castle is situated in the village of Kolossi, 11 kilometres west of Lemesos (Limassol). It was built in the 15th century on the ruins of a former fortress dated to the beginning of the 13th century. Some of these ruins can still be seen east of the present castle. The castle belonged to the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem and was the seat of the most important of the Commanderies that belonged to them. For a few years in the 14th century, it came under the control of the Knights Templar.

The castle itself is a 21 metres high square tower with three floors. The ground floor is divided into three parts and was probably used as storeroom. In the middle of the east side is a stone stairway leading first to the second floor, where the kitchen was probably located, and then to the third floor. The third floor was divided into two big halls and was the ‘house’ of the Commander. To the south of the castle there is a courtyard enclosed by walls and the ruins of an auxiliary building, probably a stable or a storehouse. On the southwest corner of that building there was an entrance, protected by a circular tower. Sugarcane refinery installations have been located to the east of the castle.

The area also produced and exported the traditional sweet wine of Cyprus, which became known as the “Vin de Commanderie” or Commandaria. Commandaria is now one of the oldest named wines in the world, having had the same name for eight centuries.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Kolossi, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Daily: 08:00 - 17:00 (November - March), 08:00 - 18:00 (April - May, September - October), 08:00 - 19:30 (June - August)
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    1,71 Euro

Koumandaria Wine Route
A trip that takes you back in time, to the secrets of the island's most ancient and famous wine, the world famous Koumandaria.
The route through fourteen Koumandaria villages goes back to 1192 AD when the knights of St. John were perfecting the production of what was perhaps, the first wine in the wolrd identified by its name. Koumandaria! The sun, acting as a valuable ally partly dries the harvested grapes, condensing their natural sweet flavours and enriching their taste. Cooperative wineries of the region, operating within an internationally accepted and protected zone, are worth a visit. Once in the area, don't forget to visit the refurbished wine press of Laneia, which has been kept alive throughout the centuries, a reminder of the land's glorious past in winemaking. A popular site is also the medieval castle of Kolossi, once the commanding base of the knights of Saint John.
Start Point:    Kolossi
End Point:    Agia Fyla
    
Kourion Archaeological Site
One of the most spectacular archaeological sites on the island, Kourion was an important city kingdom where excavations continue to reveal impressive new treasures. Noted particularly for its magnificent Greco - Roman Theatre, Kourion is also proud home to stately villas with exquisite mosaic floors and an early Christian Basilica among other treasures.

Originally built in the 2nd century B.C., Kourion’s awe - inspiring theatre is now fully restored and used for musical and theatrical performances. The House of Eustolios, consisting of a complex of baths and a number of rooms with superb 5th century A.D. mosaic floors, was once a private Roman villa before it became a public recreation centre during the Early Christian period. The Early Christian Basilica dates to the 5th century and was probably the Cathedral of Kourion, with a baptistery attached to the north face. The House of Achilles and the House of the Gladiators also have beautiful mosaic floors. The Nymphaeum, dedicated to the water nymphs, is an elegant Roman structure.

The 2nd century A.D. stadium is located outside the main Kourion site, about 1kilometre to the west on the right hand side of the road to Pafos. Also impressive is the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates, situated about 2,5 kilometres west of the ancient city.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Kourion, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Daily: 08:00 - 17:00 (November - March), 08:00 - 18:00 (April - May, September - October), 08:00 - 19:30 (June - August)
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    1,71 Euro

Kourion Mosaics
Kourion is noted for the well - preserved mosaics that decorate the floors of its stately villas. One of these is the 3rd century A.D. House of Gladiators that takes its name from a series of mosaics near its main courtyard representing gladiatorial combats.

The central part of the house was an atrium. Entrance was through a stairway on the northeast corner. This opened onto another, smaller atrium joined to the central one by a corridor. The southern part of the building was destroyed, probably due to earthquakes in the 4th century A.D. To the east of the corridor is a typical bath complex.

Located east of the theater, the House of Eustolios probably dates to the early 5th century A.D. and takes its name from an inscription citing Eustolios as the builder.

A mosaic with a welcoming inscription graces the antechamber of the entrance. There are mosaic decorations in three of the porticoes and a bath complex to the north. The house is believed to have been originally built as a home and was probably opened to the public after the construction of the baths and the addition of the mosaic floors.

Consisting of an open courtyard with rooms on two sides and a portico, the 4th century A.D. House of Achilles takes its name from the mosaic of the legendary Greek hero. Probably used to receive official guests, the house has other mosaic floors.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Kourion, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Daily: 08:00 - 17:00 (November - March), 08:00 - 18:00 (April - May, September - October), 08:00 - 19:30 (June - August)
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    1,71 Euro

Krasochoria Lemesou Wine Route
Renowned wine villages in an effortless journey through beautiful scenery. A stronghold of tradiontal wine making with an excellent choice of local wines.
 
Nowhere else in Cyprus is such a great presence of wineries as in these wine growing villages of Lemesos (Limassol) district, known locally as Krasochoria, the Wine Villages. In Omodos and Koilani alone there are 10 such wineries. The route is outstanding, not resembling any other. A dry climate combined with a unique geology is responsible for some excellent wines, made mostly from the local grape varieties Xynisteri and Mavro and also from some imported ones, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Mataro, Grenache and Syrah. Make sure you have enough time at your dispocal to taste what this route and its special wines have to offer. Visit wonderfully unspoilt villages such as Omodos, Vasa, Koilani, Lofou and Vouni with their traditional architecture, cobblestoned narrow passages cheerfull sourroundings, many of which host some for the best tavernas in Cyprus.
Start Point:    Kolossi
End Point:    Avdimou
     
Kyparissia - Germasogeia dam (Linear) Nature Trail
Initially, this trail is partly a forest route followed by a short course along the Kyparissos River. The trail offers panoramic views of Germasogeia dam and Lemesos (Limassol) and passes through thickets of Cypress trees. It can be combined with the Germasogeia dam trail.
Start Point:    About 5 kilometres from the main Parekklisia Kellaki road.
End Point:    Germasogeia dam
Estimated Duration:    3 - 3 hours and 30 minutes
Difficulty Rate:    Category 3: High degree of difficulty. Route with difficult terrain such as sudden changes in gradient (uphill and/or downhill), course along particularly rough and/or slippery, and/or narrow, and/or steep terrain. Suitable for adults in very good to excellent fitness levels. Unsuitable for young children.
Trip Length:    11 kilometres
    
Lemesos - Ancient Amathous Cycling Route
This 11 kilometres route is a bicycle tour of Lemesos (Limassol), with very few variations in gradient. It takes cyclists through the tourist area of Germasogeia and on to ancient Amathous and the nearby chapel of Agia Varvara with its eucalyptus grove and lovely beach.

The route begins from the old port of Lemesos (Limassol) and heads northeast along the coast. It goes through the tourist area of Germasogeia with its many shops, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels and traditional tavernas. It ends at the archaeological site of Amathous. A short distance down the road is the old chapel of Agia Varvara, once a favourite spot for local fishermen. There is a beautiful eucalyptus grove that provides plenty of shade for swimmers just opposite the chapel.
Start Point:    Lemesos coast
End Point:    Agia Varvara
Total Distance:    11 kilometres
Difficulty Rate:    An easy ride for all types of bicycles.
Road Conditions:    Entirely paved.
    
Lemesos Circular Cycling Route
This 77 kilometres excursion goes through the western part of Lemesos (Limassol) district to traditional wine-producing villages, along the picturesque Fasouri road, lined on either side with cypress trees that form a canopy of leaves overhead, and past important archaeological sites such as Kourion.

From the Lemesos Port traffic lights, the route heads west towards Zakaki. For about 15 kilometres the landscape is one of citrus orchards as Asomatos village and Fasouri are the main orange producing areas of Lemesos. Along the old Lemesos - Pafos (Paphos) road, the route goes past the chapel of Agios Ermogenis, the entrance to the archaeological site of Kourion and the popular Kourion beach. It then climbs steeply for about 1 kilometre to reach the ancient Stadium of Kourion and the Sanctuary of Apollo Ylatis. The route then goes past the military base of Episkopi and the village of Paramali, where it starts to climb to the north towards Avdimou and Prastio until it reaches Pachna, the main wine-producing village of the region. The village is full of vineyards, as are the smaller villages of Agios Amvrosios and Kivides, which follow.

After Kivides the route is downhill offering spectacular views to the east of Lemesos town and bay spread out in all their glory as well as of Akrotiri peninsula and the bay of Episkopi. The straight road that leads to Souni and Kantou is relaxing, allowing one to enjoy the countryside. Shortly after Kantou is Erimi, a village located on the old Lemesos - Pafos road. From there the route turns left in an easterly direction, and then right to Kolossi and its medieval castle. The return journey to Lemesos is via Fasouri.
Start Point:    Port traffic lights
End Point:    Port traffic lights
Total Distance:    77 kilometres
Difficulty Rate:    It is a relatively long route but it does not present any particular difficulty except for a few steep uphills, which require a bicycle with speeds.
Road Conditions:    Good quality, paved roads throughout.
Height Gain:    660 metres
 
Lemesos District Archaeological Museum
The Lemesos (Limassol) Archaeological Museum houses a rich and notable collection of antiquities, covering all the significant periods of Cyprus history. The exhibits are housed in three rooms and are divided into three main categories. One room primarily exhibits pottery of significant historical periods, the middle room houses coins, jewellery, lamps and a variety of copper tools and wares, while the third has sculptures, tomb stones, capitals, inscriptions and other marble and limestone objects. Exhibits include many objects related to Aphrodite, such as fertility and other votive offerings, and female terracotta figurines. The museum is linked with the Aphrodite Cultural Route.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Anastasi Sioukri & Vyronos 5, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 08:00 - 15:00, Thursday: 08:00 - 17:00, Saturday: 09:00 - 15:00 Monday & Sunday: closed
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    1,71 Euro

Lemesos Medieval Castle
Lemesos (Limassol) Fort is situated in the heart of the old town, just above the old harbour. According to tradition, this is where Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre and crowned her Queen of England in 1191. The fortified walls are of considerable archaeological interest and thought to be fragments of a much larger castle.

The exact date of the fort’s construction is not known. According to Etienne de Lusignan, it was built in 1193 by the founder of the Lusignan dynasty, Guy de Lusignan but the first official reference to the fort dates to 1228, during the involvement of Frederic II of Germany in the affairs of Cyprus. Through the years, the fort suffered the assaults of many invaders, sustaining further damage in the earthquakes of 1567 and 1568. Finally, in 1590, the Ottomans rebuilt the fort in its current form. The original fort was larger than the later one, which incorporates some parts of the former building, such as the two oblong halls of the ground floor. Below the eastern hall there is a basement with cells, which was used as a prison until 1950. Today, the fort houses the Medieval Museum of Cyprus.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Richard & Berengaria, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Tuesday - Saturday: 09:00 - 17:00, Sunday: 10:00 - 13:00 Monday: closed
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    3,42 Euro

Lemesos Walking Tour City Route
Organised every Monday at 10:00hrs, this tour aims to acquaint visitors with one of Lemesos’s (Limassol) most important features – the sea front area known as Molos or embankment. Traditionally a meeting point for the locals (Lemesiani or Limassolians), this area was turned into an open-air Sculpture Park exhibiting works of art by Cypriot, Greek and international artists.

The tour also takes the visitors by the old port, the Lemesos Castle now a museum on the Byzantine and Medieval history of Cyprus and through the surrounding area home to interesting stone-built warehouses, many of which have become restaurants and exhibition halls.

Moreover the walk guides through the Great Mosque or Kepir Mosque, the Cathedral of Agia Napa, the Municipal Market and the traditional shopping centre of Agiou Andreou Street - now a pedestrian area where one can enjoy shopping safely.
Start Point:    CTO Information Office, Lemesos
End Point:    CTO Information Office, Lemesos
Estimated Duration:    2 hours and 30 minutes
Supplier:    Lemesos Municipality
 
Monasticism and Asceticism - Route D Religious Route
The area of Lemesos (Limassol) is very significant with regard to the history of the Byzantium and of its art although special reference may be made to its relation to Monasticism. Today, only 12 monasteries have been salvaged in the district of Lemesos 9 of which are inhabited by monks or nuns.

Near Akrotiri lies the oldest monastery of the district which is dedicated to Agios Nikolaos although it is more known as “Monastiri ton Gaton” (monastery of the cats). It is estimated that the monastery was established in the 4th century by Agia Eleni. Agia Eleni is also connected to the establishment of many other monasteries like the one of Timios Stavros in Omodos, where rumour has it that a piece from the rope which tied Jesus Christ on the cross is kept. The best wood-carved ceilings of Cyprus are found in the Monastery in Omodos. Although deserted, the monastery in Anogyra is old Christian.

Monuments: Monastery of Agios Nikolaos “ton Gaton”, Akrotiri – Monastery of Timios Stavros, Omodos – Monastery of Timios Stavros, Anogyra – Μonastery of Panagia tis Amasgous - Monastery of Archangel Michael, Monagri – Monastery Agios Georgios tou Alamanou, Lemesos – Monastery of Timios Prodromos, Mesa Potamos – Monastery of Panagia tis Amirous, Apsiou – Μonastery of Panagia tis Zoodochou Pigis tou Glossa, Κellaki and Monastery of Panagia tis Sfalaggiotissas, Agios Athanasios.
Start Point:    Monastery of Agios Nikolaos “ton Gaton”, Akrotiri
End Point:    Monastery of Panagia tis Sfalaggiotissas, Agios Athanasios

Municipal Folk Art Museum
This beautifully preserved old house provides the showcase for a very interesting collection of Cypriot folk art of the last two centuries. Exhibits include national costumes, tapestry, embroidery, wooden chests, waistcoats, men’s jackets, necklaces, a variety of light clothes, town costumes, country tools etc. The museum was established in 1985. More than 500 exhibits are displayed in its six rooms. The museum was awarded the Europa Nostra prize in 1989.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Agiou Andreou 253, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Monday - Friday: 08:30 - 13:30, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 15:00 - 17:30 (June - September: 16:00 - 18:30)
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    0,85 Euro

Panagia tis Amasgou Church
Dedicated to Panagia, this small church was built at the end of the 11th century. A rectangular, vaulted church with arched recesses and two later transverse ribs that support the vault, it has some rare mural paintings of the 12th, 14th and 18th centuries, equivalent in beauty and significance to those of Asinou and Panagia tou Araka. Part of the monastic buildings has been renovated according to the original plan. The church is situated some 20 minutes away from Lemesos (Limassol).
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Lemesos
Operating Period:    All year round

Pitsilia Wine Route
Pine and vines grow freely into the mountainsides exuding rural charm. Neat villages and friendly people complete the picture.
 
Several villages are included inthe 'Nom d'Origine' Pitsilia, an area that spreads around the mountain peaks of Madari, Papoutsa and the north-western part of Machairas. Here the altitude secures a more slow and effortless grape maturity, whilst the arid and sloping earth forces the vines to huddle together and produce richer wines. Classic local grape varieties continue to have a dominant presence amongst the vineyards of Pitsilia, with occasional encounters of the Maratheftiko, a rare variety which the old wine frowers cultivated in between the Mavro in order to enrich the colour and smell of their wines.
Start Point:    Mesa Geitonia
End Point:    Palodeia
  
Pitsylia - Troodos Cycling Route
This 28,3 kilometres excursion connecting the areas of Pitsylia and Troodos is an interesting route to visit the surrounding villages.

From Alona the route heads southwest, goes through Polystypos and climbs to the northwest, passing underneath Madari peak to reach Chandria village. At Chandria it turns right and heads west, through Kyperounta to reach the crossroads at Karvounas. From Karvounas it heads south, climbing steeply towards Pano Amiantos and then heads west climbing even more steeply to Troodos Square. Before reaching the square it goes past the picnic sites of Almyrolivado and Livadi tou Pasa as well as a camping and a picnic site just before the square.
Start Point:    Alona
End Point:    Troodos square
Total Distance:    28,3 kilometres
Difficulty Rate:    Even though this is a short route, it has steep uphills that require a good quality street bicycle with at least 14 speeds, or a mountain bike with 21 speeds.
Road Conditions:    Paved roads throughout.
Height Gain:    695 metres

Saint Catherine's Catholic Church
Built in Lemesos (Limassol) in 1879, the church is dedicated to St. Catherine. The architect Friar Francescoda Monghidoro from Bologna followed the prevailing European artistic trends for such buildings of the time. He used a Baroque style in the interior, opting for an eclectic design for the exterior façade that is dominated by the portico. The walls on the apse and the vault are decorated with Neo-Byzantine frescoes painted during renovation work in 1979.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    28 Octovriou No. 259, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Masses: Daily: 18:30, Sunday: 08:00, 09:30 (Greek), 11:00 (Latin), 18:30 (English)
Operating Period:    All year round

Sanctuary of Aphrodite, Amathous
The Sanctuary of Aphrodite at at the Acropolis of Amathous is believed to be second only to that of Palaepafos, of which, according to the myth, it was an off shoot establishment. The Greek-style temple and the remains immediately below it, go back to the late Ptolemaic and Imperial times. Evidence of the presence of a sanctuary in the area before then includes votive offerings going back to the mid 8th century BC.

Through the centuries, the Sanctuary of Aphrodite was a traditional Cypriot sanctuary with a sacred enclosed space for ceremonies and votive offerings around an altar. There may have been other buildings in the area, but the cult itself was not housed in a main building. Two gigantic stone craters (huge monolith vessels) – believed to be of the late Archaic period stood in the area. One was taken to the Louvre in the middle of the 19th century and has now been replaced by a modern replica. It is possible that these remained the focus of the sacred space for a long period.

According to tradition, there were two other temples at the Acropolis of Amathous apart from the temple of Aphrodite – one dedicated to Adonis and the other to Hercules. Their remains, however, have not yet been located.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Amathous, Lemesos
Operating Period:    All year round
 
The Sanctuary and Temple of Apollo Hylates at Kourion
Situated about 2,5 kilometres west of the ancient city of Kourion, the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates was one of the principal religious centres of Cyprus where Apollo was worshipped as Hylates, god of the woodlands.

This well - defined architectural complex in Cyprus offers insight into the development of a Cypriot rural sanctuary from the Bronze Age through to the end of paganism on the island. There were three fairly distinct building periods. The Archaic Sanctuary developed essentially in the 7th century B.C. while the Ptolemaic Sanctuary belongs to the 3rd century BC. Finally, the Roman Sanctuary dates to the 1st century A.D.

It appears the Archaic Sanctuary originally comprised an enclosure in the centre of the later, much larger sanctuary. The present remains date to the mid -1st century A.D. The complex of the sanctuary included a palaestra, stoa, the treasury, the baths, the archaic temenos, the circular monument, the central courtyard and the temple of Apollo. Destroyed by an earthquake in A.D. 365 it was later occupied by squatters. Several of the collapsed buildings have been restored.

The Roman Temple of Apollo Hylates was a magnificent structure occupying the most commanding position at the end of the sacred street of the sanctuary. It had two main architectural phases. The first, dating back to the very end of the Classical or Early Hellenistic period, was a single construction, rectangular in shape. The foundation of the temple and the lower row of blocks decorated with a simple cyma belong to this early phase. The temple was rebuilt in the second half of the 1st century A.D. The approach to the new Roman temple was along an impressive staircase. Its interior followed the architectural features of the earlier temple, but the entire building was constructed on a higher level and had a podium corresponding to the lower row of blocks of the earlier temple. The high podium is a manifestly Roman feature. The temple was destroyed by the severe earthquake of A.D. 364/365.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Kourion, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Daily: 08:00 - 17:00 (November - March), 08:00 - 18:00 (April - May, September - October), 08:00 - 19:30 (June - August)
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    1,71 Euro

Theatre of Kourion
Kourion Theatre is located on the southern end of the abrupt hill on which the city is built. It was constructed at the end of the 2nd century B.C., but took its current dimensions during the 2nd century A.D. The theatre consists of a semi - circular orchestra that is surrounded by seats of the cavea (subterranean cells). It was enclosed to the south by the building of the scena frons (façade) that must have reached the height of the cavea, though today only the foundations remain. On either side of the scene were two vaulted parodoi (corridors) from where the audience entered the theatre. Kourion Theatre could seat up to 3.500 spectators.

During later reconstruction, it was modified so as to accommodate animal hunts. Many cultural activities and theatrical performances take place at Kourion Theatre, especially during the summer.
Region    Lemesos
Address:    Kourion, Lemesos
Operating Hours:    Daily: 08:00 - 17:00 (November - March), 08:00 - 18:00 (April - May, September - October), 08:00 - 19:30 (June - August)
Operating Period:    All year round
Entrance Fee:    1,71 Euro

Limassol Municipal Gardens
The lush Limassol Municipal Gardens contain well-watered flowers and palm trees that provide a haven of green in the city and the kids fun play ground.  A variety of events take place within the municipal garden, the most popular of which is the Limassol Wine Festival. The gardens also hold the only zoo in Cyprus.
Region    Lemesos
Operating Period:    All year round