The Royal Apollonia (issue 4, 2018) The Royal Apollonia (issue 4, 2018) | Page 20

BE ST OF CYPRUS CYPRUS’ BEST ATTRACTIONS Nicosia The last divided capital of this beautiful island, Nicosia (also known as Lefkosia) is a strange mix of beautiful ancient runes, historical sites, barbed wires, oil barrels and sand-filled sacks that create borders and divisions. Archaeological Finds It is the country’s cultural centre, with artefacts from the Neolithic and Byzantine period displayed in Cyprus’ Museum. The Aphrodite of Soloi statue is also found here, south of the border towards the Greek side. Leventis Municipal Museum This museum building is a blend of modern and classical, reflecting the state of Cyprus itself. Ceramic cutlery from Bronze Age and medieval era, maps from the 16th century, independence period find and photos of old days are well pre- served here and informative for tourists. and by the UN. The famous Famagusta, Kyrenia and Paphos gates are situated in- side these walls. The moat around the walls is well maintained and used as car parking spaces, for concerts, walking/strolling etc. Inside the Venetian Walls Chrysaliniotissa Quarter These walls are snowflake shaped and surround the Old City. This was created to keep out the Ottomans invaders. Different bastions are occupied by different settlers including Turkish Cypriots, Greek Cypriots L imassol On the southern coast of Cyprus, Limassol castles tower over people in a stately manner. Archaeological sites, so characteristic of this island are punctuated by modern seaside resorts, luxury hotels and streets lined with many cafes and bars. This modern southern coast has resorts that will enlighten your vacation with the best festivals on the beach and the perfect nightlife. Located around the Chrysaliniotissa Church, this quarter was revamped and rebuilt back from a horrible decay and is now a peaceful little neighbourhood with cottages and modern houses. Ayia Napa & Protaras Ayia Napa and Protaras are situated in the district of Famagusta. Ayia Napa was named after the patron saint and his monastery that belongs to the Venetian times and is located right in the centre of the town. Beach Paradise These places are known for the beaches, the luxury hotels and the fun filled beach vacations that will make your holidays one of the best. Ayia Napa has the honour of being known as the tourist capital of the island because of its luxurious beaches. Monastery It is a cultural site that shows the Catholic history and its influence in the area. Within it hides a cave that protects an icon of Virgin Mary. It also served as a convent throughout the ancient years. THE COMPACT OLD PORT OF LIMASSOL, BUILT IN THE 1950S, WAS MORE OF A FISHERMAN’S WHARF AND MINOR PASSENGER GATEWAY, SECOND BEHIND FAMAGUSTA UNTIL ITS DEMISE AND THEN LIMASSOL MAIN PORT. LAID OVER MOLOS OR CUSTOM’S PIER OF 1881, IT BROUGHT CYPRUS ONTO THE GLOBAL NAUTICAL MAP. Limassol’s Old Port Today the waterfront pier is expanding into a multi-function commercial coastal park called ‘Epihosi’, an excellent site for hanging out at night and for dinner. The rejuvenation of the Old Port has brought in some great new restaurants and gastronomical options to satisfy all tastes. Cafes and bistros of every kind and taste abound. Fast food eateries dot the scene, along with seafood bars with exotic seafood specialities and signature cocktails, coffee and snacks shops inter- spersed with vendors offering ice cream, fresh juices, smoothies and milk shakes. But it is the plush Cypriot-oriented res- significance of the water body on the is- land and its history are presented chrono- logically, from the paleontological era to recent times. It has on display, a replica of the Ancient Greek merchant ship Kyre- nia II which is a fascinating sight. It is very informative and a trip here will be not just interesting but also educational. Makronissos Tombs These rock-cut tombs are situated in an ancient burial site that holds the mys- terious stories of the past. Many of these tombs have been excavated. Sea Caves A boat trip to the sea caves will brighten your day as you explore the un- derworld and spot giant sea turtle in the clean turquoise water. Thalassa Museum of the Sea This museum is one of a kind as it focuses on the sea and explores its im- portance for the country. The impact and 20 T H E R O YA L A P O L L O N I A M A G A Z IN E • 2018 edition T H E R O YA L A P O L L O N I A M A G A Z IN E • 2018 edition taurants that are the show-stoppers, with sublime island cuisine, even elixirs! Museums Cyprus Medieval Museum and Limas- sol Archaeological Museum are top mu- seums for exploring the rich heritage of the country. Municipal Folk Art Museum preserves the folk tradition of the island and is a delight to visit. Prokymea Sculpture Park This sculpture park displays sculp- tures made by Greek and Cypriot artists. It also features the artwork of interna- tional artists. Fig Tree Bay This bay fringes Protaras and presents some of the best beaches for tourists. The calm and clear waters of the Mediter- ranean coupled with fresh cocktails and frappes while sunbathing and tanning is a brilliant prospect for vacationers. Cruise Full day cruises and sunset cruises are available with all the luxuries and accommodations that tourists can dream of, for a relaxing and fulfilling trip be- tween cities. CAPE GRECO A PICTURESQUE HEADLAND WITH THE BEST SCENIC VIEWS YOU WILL SEE IN YOUR LIFETIME. GRAB YOUR CAMERA AND SPEND DAYS HERE CAPTURING THE BEST PHOTOGRAPHS AND TIME-LAPSE VIDEOS OF SUNRISE AND SUNSETS. 21