Larnaca, what to do and top 10 things to see

A coastal city on the island of Cyprus with a fascinating culture, representing the perfect mix of East and West.

One of the places worth considering as a holiday destination is undoubtedly Larnaca, a town that is part of the Republic of Cyprus and that, both in terms of its history and its geographical location, represents the perfect mix of West and East.

This town is indeed part of the Republic of Cyprus, but it also overlooks the Turkish part of the island of Cyprus and also preserves many vestiges of the period when it was under Ottoman rule. But what are the must-see sights during a holiday in this fascinating city?
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Larnaca: what to see

Deciding where to start discovering this city is definitely difficult, given the many interesting places from a historical and cultural point of view. Without a doubt, a hypothetical itinerary could start from the Al Kebir or Buyuk Mosque, which was built right in front of the Larnaca Fort. This mosque is very important from a historical point of view, as it was the first Islamic place of worship to be built on the island of Cyprus.

Prior to its construction, a Christian place of worship stood here. Another place to see is undoubtedly the Islamic Shrine Hala Sultan Tekke, which is in a truly fascinating location, since it was built on the shores of the Salt Lake of Larnaca. Its construction dates back to the 18th century and it is one of the most important sites for the Islamic religion. You can understand why by visiting its interior.

Here are in fact preserved the remains of the woman who is considered to be Muhammad's aunt and who, according to tradition, lost her life in Cyprus during an expedition against the Byzantines.

Also very important and not to be missed is the Salt Lake, which is one of the most fascinating natural places in Cyprus. This basin is almost completely dried up and covered with salt during the summer season, while in winter it returns filled with water, attracting several species of migratory birds. The tour of discovery of Larnaca and its beauty should then continue with the Orthodox Church of St Lazarus . While it is true that this is not a very large place of worship, it should be remembered that it is to all intents and purposes the most important symbol of this locality. It was built at the behest of Leo VI, following Byzantine architectural dictates. The building also houses the remains of St Lazarus, the saint after whom the church is named. Also quite interesting to see is the Ecclesiastical Museum, which is located right next to the church.

Other places of interest

The discovery of Larnaca should continue with a visit to the city harbour, which still has the architectural features of a building built according to Venetian architectural dictates. From here, it is possible to take a guided tour to the spot where the ship Zenobia sank in 1979. It is definitely advisable to take advantage of the opportunity to dive to the seabed in the area in order to admire what remains of this ship just under 180 metres long. Once back on the surface, the Choirokoitia Neolithic Settlement, which is characterised by the fact that it is a perfect reproduction of a Neolithic-era settlement, is also worth a visit. Very interesting are the villages of Lefkara and Kiti. In the former, one has the opportunity to see the characteristic red-roofed stone houses, the hallmark of a Larnaca that resists the advancing modernity, while in Kiti one finds the Church of Angeloktisti, which was built in the Byzantine era.

As one might guess, Larnaca is full of things to see, but there are also many things one can do during a holiday in this Cypriot town. Just think, for instance, of a stroll on Mckenzie Beach, which is the most beautiful beach in the entire locality, or the Petreon Sculpture Park, which is undoubtedly the most important park in the city and is characterised by its teeming with works of art all made of stone, making it one of the most beautiful places for both those in search of relaxation and those who enjoy the fascinating mix of culture and nature.