Cyprus Interest

Around Famagusta

Many of the best beaches in Cyprus lie to the south of Famagusta in the Greek Cypriot controlled area particularly around Ayía Nápa.

Ayía Nápa

Ayía Napa, once a small fishing village, is as lively a resort as any in the Mediterranean. But historic sites such as a 16th-century Venetian monastery blends character to a town that's best known for its colourful shops, tavernas and discos.
Another focal point is the crescent harbour, crowded with bright fishing boats. The day's catch is tonight's dinner at the popular restaurants nearby. Life in this south eastern corner of Cyprus revolves around the sea, with water sports of all kinds readily available - from scuba diving to water-skiing to paragliding. Many small windmills can be seen in the area on the relatively low lying land which is typified by the red soil of this area.

Explore the rugged coast toward Cape Greko, with its string of calm sandy coves, and stay for the indescribably beautiful sunset. Or head north, toward the basket-making community of Liopetri, stopping at Sotira to take in the pretty village churches that date to the 15th and 16th centuries. East to Protaras, more glorious beaches spread out under the sun, while just inland the whitewashed town of Paralimni boasts open-air tavernas known for their succulent grilled fish. Other than the amazing beach of Ayía Napa, there are many sporting activities you can do in your free time. You can play a game of golf, or maybe a bike ride in the wildness of nature, even a horse ride if you're up to it.

Historic Buildings and Archaeology

Macronissos Tombs
During the late 1980’s the Department of Antiquities completed excavations in the locality of "Macronissos" west of Ayía Napa village. The purpose of this campaign was the excavation of the rock-cut tombs, which have been the target of illegal digging since 1872. Nineteen tombs have been excavated so far and a small sanctuary was investigated to the east of the burial grounds while part of the ancient quarry adjacent to the cemetery had also been revealed. Some of the tombs suffered from the continuing use of the quarry.
The tombs in general consist of a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenite slabs. Most of the chambers are almost identical. They are all provided with a rectangular trench in the middle slightly lower than the floor of the road and three benches at the sides of the chamber. Some of the tombs have additionally one loculus carved on the longitudinal axis of the tomb opposite the entrance, while another is provided with four beaches at the sides and one opposite the entrance, thus providing room for five interments.
Although all tombs were looted and disturbed some preliminary conclusions may be drawn. The dead were placed in clay sarcophagi, which were originally covered with three flat tiles. The tombs were used during the Hellenistic and Roman period. The pyres found on the surface by the roads give evidence of practicing Greek burial customs.
The sanctuary is a simple rectangular enclosure constructed with large irregular blocks. The few offerings found during the 1974 archaeological survey as well as those found during the latest excavations date the sanctuary to the Cypriot-Classical and Hellenistic period

Palaces
In between Limnara Beach and Cape Greco stand the Palaces. They do not constitute any particular building but a name for the admirable formations, which have been formed on the rocks there. The rocky beach has been sculptured in such a wonderful manner by the sea waves that it gives the impression of being a fine work of architecture. That is why it bears the name of Palace. The reflected light together with the crystal waters form a dreamy picture. This place can only be reached from the sea.

Monasteries and Churches

Monastery of Ayía Nápa
The graceful fountain-house and medieval church at Ayía Nápa’s monastery stand in stark contrast to the resort excesses outside.

Museums and Galleries

Marine Life Museum
Marine Life Museum is located in Ayía Napa's Town Hall. It is the first natural museum of its kind in Cyprus and it exhibits past and present marine life and promotes the study and research of marine life while also emphasising the importance of preserving the marine environment.
The exhibits include a reconstruction of a dinosaur seabed, fish fossils, shells, sea urchins, sea turtles, sea plants and more.
Every specimen in the museum was removed from its natural habitat after death. The Marine Life Museum is visited every year by thousands of tourists

Celebrations & Events

Celebrations
The Mayor of Ayía Napa holds events and celebrations all year round to show the Cypriot Culture. Plays and traditional Cypriot dances are held throughout the year.

Beaches

Macronissos Beach
A cluster of bays forms Macronissos beach. The three bays stretch out in different directions one to the west, second to the southwest, whereas the third one stretches in a south easterly direction with the result that is well sheltered from winds.

Ayía Thekla
It is situated six kilometres west of Ayía Napa. It is not one of the big ones. It has a small island within its grasp and it is within walking distance from the main road taking you to Ayía Napa. It has taken its name from a small old church in that area bearing the same name

Nissi Bay
Nissi Beach Only three kilometres west of Ayía Napa. These closely connected twin beaches attract thousands of tourists every year. Nissi, which in Greek means a small island, gives a new dimension to the beauty of the landscape. It is well sheltered from the winds, which facilitate all sea sports. There are also cafeterias, pubs, and restaurants in the area.

Sandy Bay
Sandy Bay Beach is found 400 yards or so east of Nissi Bay. The beach is also fully protected from winds. Facilities for sea sports are provided for and as in the case with most beaches, catering facilities are also offered.

Limnara Beach
About four kilometres east of Ayía Napa, visitors come to Limnara Beach. Though small it is one of the loveliest beaches, it is well protected from the winds and here stands the Kermia Beach Hotel Apartments with facilities for all water sports.

Ayía Napa Main Beach
This beach stretches from the fishing harbour of Ayía Napa for more than a kilometre and follows an easterly direction. Thousands of people visit it every year. Facilities for all sea sports are provided for. Cafeterias, snack bars and restaurants are abound in the area. The fishing harbour of Ayía Napa with its small colourful boats adds colour to the view and it is a happy reminder of the past