Protaras is located on the southeast coast of the island. Larnaca airport is about an hour's drive, and Ayia Napa is only 6 km away. Protaras stretches for as much as 10 km along the seashore and is famous for its picturesque places, clean water, gorgeous beaches and cute islands near the shore. Compared to neighboring Ayia Napa, Protaras is much quieter and calmer, and is suitable for a family holiday. The beaches and coastal waters here are really clean, they even deserved the Blue Flag - and this is an indicator. Plus, Protaras is perfectly equipped for tourism - hotels, complexes, bars, shops. We can say that this area is quite lively. And the fact that the city is old adds special significance. Life existed here as early as 306 BC. e. Although Protaras emerged as a resort not so long ago. But what attractions there are in Protaras and the surrounding area.

Valley of the Windmills

This place is located a couple of kilometers from the sandy beach, near Cape Cavo Greko and near the village of Paralimni. It is interesting that this land was nicknamed “Red Lands”, since fruits and vegetables, as well as first-class potatoes, are grown here. The valley is a vast field with quite a large number of windmills - about a hundred, it seems. It all looks extremely romantic. Well, the mills work for themselves and supply energy to the irrigation system, and therefore all these vegetables and fruits are watered regularly and grow as they should.

Liopetri

Liopetri is a small fishing village 20 minutes drive from Protaras. This village was once known for its luxurious churches - back in the 20th century there were seven of them (and the village is small, with only 4,000 people). Fewer temples have survived to this day, but it is still very beautiful there. One of the oldest churches in Liopetri is the Church of Agios Andronikos, built in the 15th century. The temple with rich paintings on the walls is known throughout the area. Also in Liopetri there is a beautiful 16th century church, the Temple of the Virgin Mary.

When the island was fighting for independence, military operations were carried out here (and not only). For example, in 1958, four local residents fought British troops. The young people took refuge in Liopetri’s house while under enemy fire. Of course, the battle was unequal, the guys died and today they are considered national heroes. There is a monument at the site of their tragic death. In general, it’s just great to come to Liopetri, take a walk, enjoy the tranquility, buy a basket from a local resident (this fishery is very developed here), and try fish in local small restaurants.

Church of Agios Elias

The Church of Agios Elias (St. Elias) was built in the 14th century. It stands on the top of a cliff on the seashore, and you can reach the entrance along a narrow, steep staircase. By the way, there is a sign that if you count the number of ladders and do not lose your way and count the same number back, then all your sins will be forgiven. Therefore, do not be surprised if you hear tourists muttering something under their breath on the descent or ascent.
The church was built in the traditional Byzantine style. The ancient painting is impressive, and has survived in excellent condition to this day. These paintings represent scenes from the Bible, as well as figures of Orthodox saints. It cannot be said that this church looks rich and pretentious. Not at all. Inside you can see a wooden altar, “bare walls” of white color.
On the roof of the church there is a dome and a high cross. Nearby you can see a small bell tower. However, if you arrive at the church in the evening, the view will impress you - all this is due to the high-quality lighting. In the evening the temple can be called truly luxurious. And next to the church there is a Tree of Wishes. Therefore, bring a ribbon or handkerchief with you and tie it on the branch of this tree, making a wish. And, if you don’t bring it, cut off the sleeve :) by the way, on the tree you can actually see scraps of clothing, apparently torn out in a panic by tourists who saw this tree. Just like that. And don’t forget your camera – from the rocks on which the church stands, a truly magnificent view of the sea and surrounding area opens up.

Protaras Historical Museum

The museum displays exhibits dedicated to the history of the city and the island. The museum has two parts. The first is dedicated to the ancient pages of the history of Cyprus. Here you can see parts of ancient frescoes, mosaics, sculptures made from rare and ordinary materials, household items that were found during excavations, as well as ancient tools. The other part presents a new history of the island. That is, like new. The oldest exhibits date back to the end of the 19th century. That is, here you can see household items of local residents, toys, dishes, vases, jugs, national clothes and all that. And also a very interesting collection of vehicles. There are different carts, carriages that transported both rich residents and poor people. In general, the place is educational, definitely worth visiting.

Cape Greco

This cape is good for its landscapes and clear sea. This cape is located right between Protaras and Ayia Napa, that is, in principle, you can finish from Protaras by bicycle or walk. This, by the way, is the easternmost point of the island. There are very beautiful caves on this cape, on the western side. And nearby there is a “Lover’s Bridge” - a rock that hangs above the water, just like a bridge.

Since it is romantic there, the rock was immediately nicknamed in honor of all lovers. Rare and endangered plants also grow on this cape. If you are a fan of snorkeling or scuba diving, then you won’t find a better place than this. On the edge of the cliff there is a lighthouse, which is surrounded by a fence. You can’t climb over it, so you just can’t get to the very edge. It’s a pity, the photographs from there, apparently, would have turned out great.
But for everyone who is upset about this, gazebos and benches are offered where you can sit and relax. By the way, like any other part or building of the island, this cape is surrounded by legends. They say that in the waters of this cape lives a terrible monster “To Filiko Teras”, that is, a “friendly monster”. That's what the locals called him. I hope this news has not discouraged you from swimming in the crystal clear views of Cape Greco.

Such beauty is happening in the lovely village of Protaras!

Cyprus is a small island located in Mediterranean Sea– warm and affectionate for avid beach lovers.

The history of Cyprus is very interesting and informative, because since ancient times almost everyone wanted to own this wonderful island. They left their mark on the history of Cyprus Alexander the Great and the great queen of Egypt Cleopatra.

Many years have passed since then, but evidence of the existence of powerful civilizations is still preserved here: huge harbors, ancient fortresses, royal tombs and ruins of ancient cities.

Holidays in Cyprus mean a variety of entertainment, delicious cuisine, beautiful beaches, exciting excursions and trips. It’s also nice that Russian tourists are very loved and respected here, as evidenced by the fact that many restaurants and cafes have menus translated into Russian.

A great highlight of a holiday in Cyprus is that vacationers have the opportunity to swim in the waters of the sea bay, from which a beautiful goddess once appeared to people Aphrodite.

One of the important features of a holiday in Cyprus is high level of security, which, you see, not every resort can provide. But to truly relax in peace and solitude, you need to visit fabulous resort Protaras, which will be discussed in detail below.

Resort village Protaras

Protaras – relatively small resort village, located in the Southeast of the island of Crete. Its area is relatively small - approximately 12 thousand sq.m.

Protaras is remarkable for its coastline, quaint rocky bays, various hotels, and nice residential houses. This is what makes it charming and memorable for everyone who has ever visited it. Here you you won’t find noisy entertainment venues, because Protaras is one of the most suitable places for a holiday with the whole family.

However you won't be bored here: diving, fishing, boat trips, sun and air bathing - this is what will be a pleasant entertainment for both adults and children. But the most important thing here, undoubtedly, is safety, and there is no criminal situation at the resort at all.

The locals are incredibly kind-hearted, so even single girls can relax in Protaras without the risk that anyone will pester them on the street.

The most suitable place for swimming in the resort are the beaches of Protaras in the area Fig Bay, so named because of the abundance of fig trees growing throughout its territory. What is incredibly surprising here is that people walk solemnly along the seashore pelicans– representatives of the local animal world.

Famous in Protaras are also: beaches, like Sirena Bay, Kapparis and Green Bay. For those who love water sports, Louma and Pernera are ideal. They are well equipped with all the necessary equipment and fixtures.

Protaras attractions

But besides all this, Protaras is incredibly famous for its sights whom you you won't find it in any other resort.

Church of St. Elias in Protaras

Church of Agios Elias or the Church of St. Elias, built in the 16th century, is very beautiful and is a place where everyone can rest their soul, find peace and tranquility.

The inside of the temple is painted white, with saints depicted on the walls, the floor is tiled, and benches are located near the walls for parishioners. There is a staircase leading to the church from the outside, and in the evening the temple is illuminated with lights. It's quite exciting wish tree, on which you can tie a ribbon and make your deepest wish which will certainly come true.

Dancing fountains

Dancing fountain show in Protaras consists of 18 thousand streams of water, illuminated by 480 multi-colored spotlights. All this beauty is accompanied by sound design. Here you can hear both modern musical motifs and classical music.

The show starts daily around 21.00 , and is controlled by a computer.

This is a magnificent sight - the combination of sound and color will please even the most picky people tourists in Cyprus.

Oceanarium in Protaras

Oceanarium Protaras is located near the city center and has more than one thousand marine inhabitants such as crocodiles, penguins and exotic fish. The oceanarium is divided into sections intended for certain species of its inhabitants.

Specimens from the waters can be found here Atlantic and Pacific Ocean, Mediterranean sharks, clown fish, piranhas, moray eels, etc. For complete convenience of visiting the aquarium, there is cafe where you can have a snack and relax. Here you can also conduct children holidays or fun parties.

Water park in Protaras

It is impossible to get around the Protaras water park - a place where the youngest tourists will have tremendous fun. It contains huge swimming pool with eleven slides different heights. Here you can see amazing pirate ship, as well as an aquatic mushroom of impressive size volcano.

Holidays in Protaras are unthinkable without a hike snack bars and cafes, where you are sure to taste wonderful dishes from various world cuisines. An important attribute for any snack will be excellent Greek and Cypriot wines, and also exquisite sweets.

Protaras - video

We invite you to watch a video of a walk around Protaras.

Protaras is a classic Cypriot resort, and if you decide Have a relaxing holiday with the whole family, then this is where you should go. Choose a hotel according to your taste and budget, the service that suits you and the places you would like to visit.

A vacation here will be a unique opportunity for you to throw away thoughts about work and everyday life, will give you a wonderful mood, will bring peace and tranquility to your soul. In Protaras you really you will feel invigorated and rested.

Since the middle of the decade before last, a holiday in Cyprus has become a symbol of a successful life for our compatriots, and the island itself has turned into a favorite resort. In general, it is believed that beach holidays on the island are one of the best in Europe, since the best beaches of Cyprus are marked with a blue flag, which means they are distinguished by careful compliance with environmental safety, clean shores and high water quality.

One of these clean and cozy holiday destinations on the island of Cyprus is Protaras, a small town located at its southern tip. The choice of this place for the development of tourism infrastructure was not accidental. After the annexation of the Republic of Northern Cyprus in 1974, the country actually lost such world-famous resorts of Cyprus as Farmagusta and Kyrenia. And the government decided to restore resort holidays on the south coast, emphasizing its attractions, for which Protaras and nearby Ayia Napa turned into tourist centers.

Overview of the sights of Protaras

You shouldn’t expect a noisy and hectic pace of life from this cozy place. Protaras is ideal for relaxation, contemplation and other quiet pastimes. And for those who want to arrange a youth holiday in Cyprus, it is better to stay in neighboring Ayia Napa, which is called the “second Ibiza”. But couples, parents with children and those who are tired of the hustle and bustle and are looking for solitude can easily relax in Protaras in the best way.
To fully enjoy the local beaches, you need to choose the right time when it is best to relax in Cyprus. Despite the fact that the climate in Protaras, as on the entire island, is quite mild, the off-season is not a good option for spending a holiday here. Holiday seasons in Cyprus occur from May to October, when the weather is hot and sunny, and the water warms up to +25 degrees, as well as during the winter season, which is optimal for wintering. It is during these periods that Protaras is filled with tourists.

What to see in Protaras?

It must be said that this town is not rich in historical buildings or cultural sites:

Church of Agios Elias

The main architectural monument of the city is the Church of Agios Elias (Church of the Prophet Elijah). One of the main attractions of Protaras was built in the 14th century on the very top of a cliff located along the sea coast. The church is perfectly preserved. Currently, tourists from all over the world visit this building in order to see the famous Byzantine painting, in the style of which the monument was built. The walls of the church are decorated with images of biblical scenes. From the outside, the church appears to be a very modest and simple structure in the daytime, but with the onset of darkness, the church seems to be transformed: beautiful lighting makes it a real palace. Every tourist who finds himself at the top of the cliff is amazed by the view from the cliff. Any visitor to the church has a photograph of the panorama that pleases the eyes of those on the rock. Local residents have a belief: if you count the number of steps when going up to the church and their number coincides when counting the same steps when going down, then according to legend, you will be absolved of all your sins.

Singing Fountains

In addition to it, tourists can also visit such attractions as the singing and dancing fountains in the square: they attract not only those who come to Protaras, but also tourists from Larnaca and Ayia Napa.
This is a real show of light and music: the combination of lighting effects and carefully selected music makes the performance unforgettable. While the fountains dance, spectators enjoy beautiful music. The highlight of the show is a simulated volcanic eruption accompanied by ominous sounds. Some people are frightened by this element of the show, while others are completely delighted with what they see. The culmination is a laser show - dancing men against the backdrop of multi-colored fountains. During the viewing, all spectators sit at tables, almost each of which has its own waiter, which allows you to enjoy dinner. It is worth answering: there is no need to strive to take the seats closest to the fountains - in the front rows it will be comfortable only for those for whom the splashes of water flying during the show cannot ruin their mood.

Oceanarium

For those tourists who spend their holidays in Cyprus with children in Protaras, one of the city’s marine-themed attractions will be very interesting - the local aquarium. The oceanarium is located on the territory of a huge tropical park with an area of ​​15,000 m². During the walk you will be able to meet and see more than 1000 representatives of marine life, fish and birds. The aquarium is open daily and all year round. The park is divided into several sections, each of which is home to certain animals or birds. Enclosures have been built in the park and the conditions of their natural habitat have been recreated for most of the park’s inhabitants.

Valley of the Windmills

A unique attraction of Protaras is the Valley of Windmills, located very close to Cape Kavo Grevo and the village of Paralimni. The second name of the valley given to it by local residents is “Red Lands”. It is the valley that is the main place for growing fruits, vegetables and potatoes on the island. Due to the not entirely humid climate of Cyprus, an irrigation system was invented in which pump mills play the main role. The valley, a field on which there are a number of windmills, attracts tourists looking for romantic sensations for a walk. The main advantage of this attraction is its close location to the Protaras beach, from where, moving deeper into the island, you can reach the valley during a short walk.

Historical Museum

For those who want to understand the history of Protaras and Cyprus in general, a local Historical Museum has been built on the territory of the city, which presents a considerable number of exhibits that reveal the veil of secrecy on the history of ancient and modern Cyprus. The museum is divided into two parts: the first presents household items and tools of the ancient population, the second contains objects telling about the life of modern Protaras. Of particular interest to visitors is the collection of toys, vases, plates and various shapes of jugs.

Chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The most visited attraction in Protaras is the Chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which holidaymakers in the Cyprus resort from all over the world strive to see. The chapel was built back in the 13th century. Currently, the Chapel is the main museum of medieval architecture in Protaras. In the chapel there is an icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which works miracles: women are cured of infertility and get rid of other difficulties in life. Some time later, grateful women bring gifts to the icon in order to show their deepest gratitude.

Beaches are the main wealth of Protaras

In fact, the city has other attractions: people don’t go to Protaras for excursions, because the biggest advantage of the town is its beaches:

Fig Tree Cove

In the vicinity of Fig Tree Bay there is the cleanest beach on the entire island; it is loved not only by numerous tourists, but also by the Cypriots themselves. The absence of waves and a gentle entry into the water are excellent conditions for swimming for any age category of tourists. And, by the way, they also have quite decent infrastructure - local hotels, of which there are more than 30 in Protaras, offer a full range of services, and several of them are home to the most famous mini-water parks in Cyprus. In addition, even during the high season, the cost of housing in Protaras is low, and in the off-season, when there are no tourists, the town turns into a paradise for lovers of solitude and inexpensive recreation. The bay is a concentration place for diving lovers and connoisseurs, because it is rich in the presence of underwater caves that attract lovers of the underwater world.

Protaras is a small resort in the southeast of Cyprus, which is comfortably located on the shores of a picturesque bay surrounded by fig palms. The water in the bay is unusually clean, there are no big waves and there is almost no wind. The town is just an hour's drive from the airport and not far from the famous city. Excellent tourist infrastructure, the beauty of the local nature, wide gently sloping beaches with golden sand, as well as silence and privacy, have made this resort a popular destination for families with children. Clubs and discos are located far from recreation areas and beaches. There are small fish restaurants all along the coast where you can enjoy fresh seafood delicacies with your whole family.

Sights of Protaras

Tourist Protaras

Budget holidays in Protaras. For example, on the coast you can inexpensively rent a small house and the sea will be just a stone’s throw away. There are also residential complexes that are adapted for family apartments, with excellent service for reasonable money. And of course, there is something for every taste and budget with the most modern infrastructure.

Local tourist offices offer a large selection of sea cruises. You can go to and. Excursions throughout Cyprus are well organized and the prices are quite reasonable. But if you want to travel around the island yourself, then you can easily do this from Protaras, since there are plenty of points and other means of transport here. Use guidebooks and travel with pleasure. Let's take a walk around Protaras and its surroundings.

It can be useful

Aquarium in Protaras

In Protaras there is a wonderful Ocean Aquarium (Protaras Ocean Aquarium), which will undoubtedly be interesting for children. There are more than a thousand species of different fish, which are housed in large aquariums, and the habitat for specific species is as close to natural as possible. There are aquariums with inhabitants of the Atlantic, Pacific Oceans and the Mediterranean Sea: sharks, moray eels, piranhas, eels, anemones, clown fish and many others.

There is a section with crocodiles, alligators and caimans. Very cheerful and charming black-footed penguins also live here. There are pools with sea turtles. There is a beautiful garden around the aquarium and there are aviaries with animals and birds. The aquarium has a cafe and a souvenir shop. In general, here you can have an educational and fun time with the whole family.

• Opening hours: November-March: 9.00-16.00; April-November: 10.00-18.30. The ticket office closes an hour before.

• Ticket: adults/children – 13/7 €. Children under 2 years old are free.

• The Ocean Aquarium is located between the cities of Paralimini and Protaras, near the Agia Triada roundabout. You can get there by buses 101,102, 703, 706,708,711.

Valley of the Windmills

And now to the Valley of Windmills. Getting to this place, with hundreds of wind turbines, is not difficult. “Red Lands,” as the valley is also called, are located between sandy and. This area is quite large and vegetables and delicious Cypriot potatoes are grown here.

Since Cyprus does not have enough moisture, an additional irrigation system is needed. And windmills do an excellent job of this task, driving an extensive irrigation system. Despite all the apparent prosaicness, windmills look very romantic and make an impression. Here, you really feel the energy of nature that feeds these fertile lands. Tourists love to visit this place.

Unusual excursions from Protaras

Fishing village Liopetri

Not far from Protaras there is a small village called Liopetri. Even at the beginning of the last century, Liopetri could boast of as many as seven churches, despite its small territory. But now there are significantly fewer of them in Liopetri, but there are still two of the most ancient churches that are worth a look. The church of Agios Andronikos, built in the 15th century, still displays beautiful frescoes from that time on its walls. And the Church of the Virgin Mary, which was built in the 16th century.

The village also has a monument to four famous national heroes - fighters for the independence of Cyprus. Liopetri is also notable for its local craftsmen who skillfully weave baskets from wicker and you can take a useful and high-quality souvenir with you. And on the coast in national taverns you can taste excellent dishes from freshly caught fish.

Church of Agios Ilias

In Protaras there is a small church that stands on a cliff above the sea. The Church of Profitis Ilias was built in honor of St. Elias in the 14th century. The church can be reached by a long and narrow staircase. Moreover, local residents have a legend that if you count the steps and don’t lose count, the Almighty will forgive all earthly sins. The church was built in the Byzantine architectural style and is perfectly preserved thanks to restoration work. The paintings on the walls of the church are amazing and also well preserved. In the evening and at night the church is beautifully illuminated. There is a tree growing next to the church. It is called the "wishing tree". You need to make a wish and tie something to the branch - a string or a scarf. And from the cliff on which Agios Ilias rises, a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding area and the boundless blue of the sea opens up.

Chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Women can visit the Chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Church of Ayia Anna). This is a very ancient women's chapel, built in the 13th century. Its main shrine is the miraculous icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is believed to be able to save women from infertility and various troubles. And in the chapel you can see very beautiful porcelain plates from the 18th century. Next to the chapel there is a small museum of Byzantine culture.

Historical Museum in Protaras

One of the interesting attractions of Protaras is the Historical Museum. It will be interesting to visit it with children. The museum contains a huge number of exhibits from all over. Which tell about the ancient and modern times of the island. You will be able to see various traditional household items of local residents. One exhibition of the museum tells about the ancient history of Cyprus. Frescoes, mosaics, sculptures, and various tools were found during excavations in the city and its environs. And the other part of the exhibition is the new history of Cyprus. Here you can see an interesting collection of vehicles - various carriages and simple carts. You will also see collections of toys and pottery.

Church of St. Barbara. Protaras

A few kilometers from Protaras, at the entrance to the town of Paralimini, there is a very beautiful religious church of St. Barbara, built in the 19th century. The church looks very festive and was built in the traditions of Mediterranean architecture. This is a very popular church among couples in love and is often chosen for weddings. The church grounds offer a beautiful panoramic view of the sea.

Protaras. Fig Tree Bay

The main attraction of Protaras, and at the same time the best beach in the city, is Fig Tree Bay. Translated, it means “fig tree bay”, as a huge fig tree once grew in this place. This beach is considered one of the best on the entire island, and tourists love it for its cleanliness, warm sea water, white fine sand and a lot of different entertainment. Anyone who loves active recreation will not be disappointed. The beach provides the opportunity to practice almost all your favorite water sports - kayaking, sailing, water skiing or motorcycling. And there are excellent conditions for diving enthusiasts. There is a small bay on the beach surrounded by picturesque rocks with underwater caves. If you are prepared and have diving equipment, these caves will be fun to explore.

There are no big waves in the bay, as there is an island that prevents this. The depth in the bay near the shore is shallow, and the water is very clean and warm, which is suitable for families with small children. There are very good restaurants on the beach where you can try. The restaurant of the same name, Fig Tree Bay, especially stands out among them. Sitting on the restaurant terrace, you will enjoy the beautiful seascape and fig palms. The restaurant has excellent service - very attentive and fast. And the best dish is fish meze. There are hotels, both five-star and budget, near the beach. The hotels here are famous for their excellent spa treatments.

Cape Greco. Protaras

The most beautiful and visited place in the area is Cape Greco, located between Protaras and. It is not difficult to get to the cape on foot, or by bicycle. The cape is famous for its bizarre sea caves, which the sea has sculpted over millions of years. Diving lovers will get a lot of impressions from this place; you can also go underwater hunting here. Not far from the caves there is a natural bridge - “Lover's Bridge”. This is a rock hanging over the water, like a real bridge. In addition, on the cape there are rare flowers and plants that do not grow anywhere else on the island. There is also a legend on the cape about a monster that lives in coastal waters. But they call him "friendly" as a joke. Well, we, travelers, like legends, because they add mystery and attractiveness to unexplored places. Have fun on your walks!

Protaras is a magnificent family resort in Cyprus, located in the south-eastern part of the island. He himself is a museum exhibit, which you can admire and admire endlessly. And in his district there is definitely something to see and admire.

Therefore, tourists have a wide choice of the best programs: both excursions in Protaras and excursions from Protaras, for every taste and at quite affordable prices. The cost of excursions from Protaras can be included in the tour, or you can choose to pay for each one separately.

Excursions from Protaras for families

Excursions around Cyprus from Protaras offer everyone the opportunity to explore Cypriot antiquities, the Middle Ages and modern achievements, the beauty of Cypriot nature and the works of human hands. Thanks to such excursions, you will be able to get to know this small country and its wonderful people, the ancient history and modern achievements of Cyprus quite closely.

You can do this either independently or together with your children as part of a family vacation for which Cyprus is so famous. Guides working with Russian audiences are fluent in Russian, so you can get acquainted with the sights of this blessed island without a translator.

What excursions to go on from Protaras?

• Cape Greco

You can walk to this cape, located four kilometers from the village, with the whole family on foot, by bicycle or by car and swim in the sea if the weather is not too windy.

• Troodos mountain range

To see the nature of Cyprus in its pristine beauty, you can visit the Trodoros mountain range. Here you will visit ancient mountain villages that have preserved their traditional way of life, as it was many centuries ago.

You can visit Kykkos Monastery, founded in the 11th century, and you will see the icon of the Mother of God, according to legend, written by the Gospel Luke. You will visit the grave of the rebellious Archbishop Macarius, who in the last century led the uprising of the people of Cyprus against the rule of the English crown and became the first President of independent Cyprus.

• Nicosia and Lefkara

Nicosia is the heart of Cyprus, a collection of unique architectural monuments, medieval cathedrals, palaces, museums, as well as amazing quarters of the old city.

Can visit the ancient village of Lefkara, founded in the 12th century and famous throughout the world for its embroideries with geometric patterns, one of which, according to local legends, was acquired by Leonardo da Vinci himself.

• Ostrich farm

To the west of Nicosia, in the village of Agios Ioannis, you can visit an ostrich farm and get acquainted with its ostrich breeding activities. There is also a camel farm nearby, where tourists are allowed to ride camels.

Very close to the farms is the Macheras Monastery, founded in the 12th century, where the strictest rules are observed by the monks to this day.

• Larnaca

Perhaps this is the most famous resort in Cyprus. In the vicinity of Larnaca you can visit cultural monuments of the Christian history of the island. So, in the Church of St. Lazarus, founded in the 4th century, this hero of the New Testament is buried.

And the Arab conquest of Cyprus and the culture of Cypriot Islam are forever captured in the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque.

• Pathos

The ancient period of Cypriot history can be seen in Paphos, where there are many ancient monuments that are a world cultural heritage. Not far from Paphos you can visit the Baths of Aphrodite, where, according to legend, it emerged from the foam of the sea.

• Kourion

You can learn about the ancient Roman period of the history of Cyprus from the ruins of this ancient city with its amphitheater and ancient mosaics. And very close by is the medieval knightly castle of Kolossi, founded in the 13th century, and other architectural monuments of those times.

• And, of course, the most mysterious city of Famagusta.