CYPRUS: Larnaca

We started our exploration of Cyprus in Larnaca, the third-largest city on the southeastern coast of the country.

Larnaca was originally founded by the Mycenaeans in the 13th century BC, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in Cyprus.

Over the centuries it was an important commercial and cultural center influenced by Phoenician, Greek, Roman, Venetian and Ottoman civilizations.

 

Because of its location in the Mediterranean the city was a vital port that facilitated trade between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

The Ottomans constructed the Larnaca Fort in the 17th century. It later served as a prison under British rule from 1878 to 1960. Now it’s a museum.

The city is proud of its Orthodox Church of Saint Lazarus which was built in the 9th century. The church is Byzantine architecture with thick stone walls and three domes. Later in the 17th century, when it was under Venetian rule, a stone bell tower was added.

 

 

The church is an important pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians because it is believed the church is built over the burial site of Saint Lazarus. According to tradition, Lazarus fled to Cyprus after being resurrected by Jesus. 

I am always drawn to the old historical parts of cities. These are some of the buildings from the old British colonial rule.

Larnaca’s Old Town has narrow winding alleys with homes made of limestone and mud-brick. Some houses have wooden shutters, wrought iron balconies and carved doors with intricate designs. There are vibrantly painted doors and window frames.

Stone archways connect buildings, which was a common feature in old Cypriot towns.

The old streets are home to traditional potters, weavers and lace makers, all vying for tourists' euros.

Something I noticed were quite a few dilapidated and abandoned buildings in the Old Town. This is mostly because of legal disputes over ownership. After the Turkish invasion of 1974, families and whole communities fled the city leaving the homes vacant.

 

Then after the division of Cyprus many Turkish-Cypriot families fled north leaving more buildings in Larnaca vacant. So now many of the buildings are trapped in legal disputes over ownership which prevents their renovations or sales.

 

 

Also, some historical buildings are protected by law, preventing their demolition. But without sufficient funding, they remain in a state of decay as they sit in limbo.

That aside, we loved Larnaca for the sunshine, blue skies and crystal clear water. 

A popular beach in the city is Finikoudes Beach which has a Promenade with little shops, cafes, coffeshops and restaurants. Finikoudes means “little palm trees” in Greek.

Our place overlooked Finikoudes Beach and these were our sunrises every morning.

 

Pretty tough to complain about starting a day this way.