About Limassol

Without a doubt, Limassol Castle holds a preeminent position among the city’s landmarks and tourist destinations. It is said that Richard the Lionheart married his betrothed, Princess Berengaria of Navarre, within these castle walls. The nuptials took place after her vessel ran aground while accompanying him on the Third Crusade en route to the Holy Land. Serving as a prison from 1790 to 1940, the castle has since transformed into a medieval museum. The museum’s extensive collection spans the period from 400 to 1870 AD, offering a wealth of exhibits including cannons, intricate wood carvings from the 17th and 18th centuries, paintings, tombstones, statues, suits of Armor, coins, terracotta, metalware, pottery, glass, and marble artifacts for visitors to explore.

Situated along the southern coastline of Agios Tychonas, the ancient city of Amathus stands as one of the most ancient metropolises on the island. The city’s origins are shrouded in numerous myths, with one narrative attributing its founding to Cinyras. According to this tale, Cinyras’ son Adonis christened the city in honour of his mother, Amathus. In another version, rooted in Hellenic myth, Amathus was established by one of the progenies of Heracles, who was revered in the city. A particularly significant connection existed between the city and Aphrodite, the deity of beauty and love.

Exploring the remnants at the archaeological site transports visitors to a bygone era, a window into a time that existed some 3000 years in the past. The evocative excavations and artefacts provide glimpses into the mythical past of Amathus, offering an immersive experience amidst the ruins.

For enthusiasts of art and history, the Archaeological Museum in Limassol proves to be a captivating destination. Within its walls, a treasure trove of artifacts unveils the societal evolution of Cyprus. These encompass a rich array of ceramics, pottery, and antiquities dating back to the Roman era. The museum’s collection spans a wide historical spectrum, showcasing discoveries spanning from the Neolithic epoch to the Late Bronze Age. Among the exhibits, sculptures, pottery, lamps, and inscriptions adorned with the classical resonance of ancient Hellenistic and Roman influences captivate the attention of the museum’s many visitors.

Positioned 18km to the west of Limassol, near the village of Episkopi, the Kourion Archaeological Site stands as a renowned gem among Cyprus’ attractions. This captivating archaeological dig boasts a wealth of remarkable features, prominently showcasing its awe-inspiring Greco-Roman theatre, regal villas, breath-taking floor mosaics, an early Christian Basilica, and an assortment of opulent treasures. With its origins tracing back to the 10th century B.C., Kourion, once a twin city, now presents a tapestry of ruins that vividly reflect the nuances of public life during the Early Christian era.

Located in the village of Kolossi, 11km to the west of Limassol, the Kolossi Medieval Castle stands as a prominent historical site. This castle, constructed in the 15th century by the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem, occupies land granted by King Hugh I. Preceding its construction, the site was host to a 13th-century fortress, traces of which can still be discerned within the castle’s precincts. Subsequently, the castle played host to Richard I of England and the Knights Templar, further enhancing its storied legacy.

Lining the coastal road, the Municipal Garden offers a lush expanse of verdant and shaded retreat, inviting visitors to unwind and leisurely wander its pathways. In the vicinity, a cluster of family-oriented attractions flourishes, such as the Lemesos Zoo Garden and Dinosaur Park. Notably, an expansive open-air garden theatre graces the scene, serving as a backdrop for numerous events that unfold throughout the year.

Nestled along the waterfront, not far from the Public Garden, the Twin Cities Park, also referred to as the Sculpture Park, stretches over a span exceeding 1.5km. This distinctive enclave showcases an assembly of sculptures, a testament to collaborative efforts between the Limassol Municipality and accomplished sculptors hailing from Cyprus, Greece, Germany, Israel, and Egypt.