Paphos is one of the most popular places where guests are located in Cyprus. But in order to diversify your leisure, it is necessary to go on excursions to the goal of a deeper study of the history, culture and traditions of the island.
1. Excursion "Nicosia-Lefkara-Larnaca". You go to the capital of Cyprus Nicosi. This city is complex destiny, the only capital in the world, divided into two parts. You will see the so-called "green line", which since 1974, when the northern part of the island occupied Turkish troops, divided the city in half. First, you will go on the inspection of the Palace of Archbishop Makarios. This is one of the largest Cypriot national, religious and political monuments. Every year there are thousands of tourists from all over the world. Pay attention to the ancient frescoes in the Cathedral of St. John, located right there. And the local Byzantine Museum you will get acquainted with the invaluable collection of ancient icons and paintings. Next, you will pass to the Old Quarter of the city of Like Gytonia, your way here will lie through the gate of ammochostos in the Venetian fortress wall of the 13th century. You will have free time to walk around the local streets, as well as make purchases in souvenir shops and small shops. In the afternoon, you will go to the village of Lefkara, the famous LEFKARITIC lace and silver jewelry. According to the legend, Leonardo da Vinci himself came here to buy lace for decorating the altar in the Milan Cathedral. You will not only be able to purchase this product, but also see the embroidery process itself. While you make purchases, hospitable locals will coax you with lefkar bread, sweets and Cyprus coffee. Next, the path of the excursion bus will lie to the city of Larnaca. This is the third largest city of the island. On the way there will be a stop for photographing against the background of the Muslim mosque Tekes Hala Sultan, which is considered the most sacred place of worship of Muslims after Mecca and Medina. An interesting visit to Larnaca and the Church of St. Lazarus, a unique ancient architectural monument. The cost of the excursion is 50 euros for adults, for children - 25 euros.
2. Excursion "Kickkos-Toditissa-Omodos". During this cognitive excursion, you will see the main Cypriot shrines and picturesque villages, located on the slopes of the mountains. First, the group goes to the Kickkos Monastery, which is famous far beyond Cyprus. The icon of the Virgin, who was written by the Holy Luke for legend. In the monastery it will be possible to gain water in the healing source. The next monastery, which you visit - Toroditssa. This is also a male monastery, which is located high in the mountains, not far from the famous Cedar Valley Reserve. Further, the route lies into the village of Omodos - one of the most unique places of the island. It was in this village that the monastery of a honest life-giving cross, which was founded by several centuries ago by Queen Elena. The particle of the Cross of the Lord is stored. You will visit the winery where you will be told and show the process of fault. It has its tasting. In addition, Omodos is famous for both lace, and silver decorations of handmade. You can buy them immediately at a local store. The cost of such an excursion is 40 euros for an adult and 20 euros for children.
3. Excursion for the monasteries of Athens-Saint Fekla-Stavrovni-Saint Minas near Larnaca. An excursion will begin with a visit to the modern church in the village of Athens. Here you can touch the shoe of the famous Holy Spiridon trimofuntsky, helping businessmen in their commercial affairs, as well as those who need housing. After, the group will continue to the Women's Monastery of Saint Fekla. He has long been famous for his healing mud and water that helps in the treatment of many diseases. At the following way, lunch is provided, after which you will go to the male stavrovny monastery. This is one of the most ancient monasteries of Cyprus, where the particle of the life-giving cross today is stored, on which Jesus was crucified. Men will be invited to the monastery, and women will visit the local chapel. You can also enjoy the beautiful views from the mountains, 700 meters high above sea level. On the way to the Women's Monastery of St. Minas, you will be waiting for a stop in the village of Lefkara, for exploring the famous "Lefkartic" - lace embroidery and shopping souvenirs. The monastery of St. Minasa himself was founded in the 15th century and all his building is painted by an amazing beauty of the frescoes of that period. The nuns here paint icons, grow fruit, produce honey, which can be immediately purchased with you in a local shop. The cost of the excursion is 50 euros for adults, and 25 - for children.
4. "Gastronomic" excursion. You go to the Eastern Troodos areas. First, you visit the village Agros, which is famous far beyond Cyprus by the production of pink water. You can not only watch the process of its production itself, but also to taste the pink liquor and pink brandy. On the local smokehouse you will be shown how the meat dishes of national Cypriot cuisine are preparing: Lunzo - smoked pork meat, Lukanic - pork sausages with spices, chiomeri - smoked pork in wine sauce. After visiting the village, you will go to the mountains and the Valley of Pizil, will see a vineyard plantation here, as well as walnut. The palette of bright colors, a variety of natural landscapes make these valleys among the most attractive in Cyprus. Excellent photos will turn out on your photo station at the local waterfall. An excursion will be completed on a farm where the trout is grown. You can not only participate in the improvised fishing, but also to taste your catch that you will be prepared in a local restaurant. The cost of the excursion is 35 euros.
