Whether you prefer an intimate civil gathering, a traditional church service in a stunning venue or the sheer opulence of a chapel wedding at a luxury hotel, the island of Aphrodite can exceptionally meet all of your dreamful ceremony requirements. From a traditional feast in a village tavern to the ultimate sophistication of a luxury reception in a magnificent hotel, Cyprus consists of a multitude of fantastic options that aim to make every wedding special and to generate an ideal dream day, regardless of wedding party size or budget. Cyprus is most fortunate as it enjoys an intense Mediterranean climate with an amazing sunshine, especially from May until October. From November through to April the temperature is cooler with little rain, lots of sunshine and an astonishing emerald green panorama. Cyprus, the land surrounded with crystal blue waters, is the perfectly unique place to enjoy remarkable and astounding forms of weddings.
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Beach weddings are surely an alternative to the regular and to even the traditional weddings as they consist of the faculty to make your whole day a memorable moment. By the Mediterranean Sea with a glass of champagne, the smooth noise of the waves caressing the rocks and your beloved one is merely a memory that will indubitably last a lifetime. Exclusive weddings on decorated yachts surrounded with ravishing balloons, rosettes and flowers and anchored in a natural bay are individually tailored to formulate the most perfect wedding, you could ever imagine. As far as tradition is concerned, it has nowadays entered into the perspective of a modern era, in which a traditional wedding has become an incredible ceremony in a fantastic luxurious hotel with its own stone-built church, renovated spaces and specifically embellished areas that embrace this paradisiacal happening. Its incredibly romantic sea view rooms that gaze upon the breathtaking sunset, the silver sands and the massive blue are certainly a panoramic view of the Mediterranean aspects, which touch upon the island of love and beauty. Cyprus is composed of the greatest love stories one could ever think of, a mythical sensation that Aphrodite, the Goddess of love and beauty has produced into the island. The myth of Aphrodite and Adonis, a youth of remarkable beauty, is one of the most popular myths, since it is directly associated with love and Eros. Not even Gods and deities could escape the powerful arrows of God Eros and fell in love with mortals. The Goddess of love used to take her bath in a cool pond near Polis. The place is known as the ‘Baths of Aphrodite’ and provides a magnificent view of the Bay of Polis. According to legend, after swimming in the crystal clear waters of the bay, Aphrodite used to bathe in this pond, surrounded by an idyllic landscape with sweet smelling wild flowers. It is here that she met her beloved Adonis for the first time. Adonis was hunting in the Akamas forest, when stopped over the wonderful spring to quench his thirst. He was struck by the sight of the naked goddess bathing in the crystal waters. Aphrodite and Adonis were instantly bewitched by each other’s extraordinary beauty. On his way to the Holy Land, Richard the Lionheart used his might to possess the island, but in the heat of battle, the arrow of love had hit him and fell in love with the enchanting Berengaria of Navarre in 1191. Richard and Berengaria were married in Limassol, on May 1191, amidst great feasting. A chronicler wrote: “And there in the joyous month of May, 1191, in the flourishing and spacious isle of Cyprus, celebrated as the very abode of the goddess of love, did King Richard solemnly take to wife his beloved lady Berengaria”. The wedding was followed by their coronation. Richard was crowned King of Cyprus and Berengaria Queen of England and of Cyprus. It was said that Berenagaria’s crown was more elaborate and more expensive than those worn by previous Queens of England. It was probably due to her being both Queen of England and Cyprus. Throughout the centuries, on the island love become a myth and myth became a legend with picturesque patterns of history remaining perpetually as a fantasy. Live your own myth under the love spell of the Goddess, who rose from the foam of the sea and chose Cyprus to be her outstanding sacred palace, inciting feelings of affection and passion, wherever she passed through. By leaving footprints in your heart feel her strength in your soul and live your fairytale not as a dream, but as a day of excitement and joy, a day to look forward to and to remember for the rest of your lives. On the land of such an incredible beauty generate your own true fairytale and as most fairytales end “and they live happily ever after”, this would undoubtedly be the delightful ending of your story as well; a story of true love on the island with a miraculous sense of peace, hope and robust desire.
The name ‘Ayia Napa’ is closely associated with religion. It originated from a monastery of the same name, which is, nowadays, adjacent to the clubs and bars of the central square. The name ‘Ayia Napa’ also holds its own meaning. Precisely, Ayia Napa is defined as holy wooded or otherwise, sacred forest, since it is considered to have once retained a luminous emerald forest of stunning beauty. In the old times, only hunters from nearby villages passed through this area. Unexpectedly, one day a hunter discovered the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary in a cave, which was most probably placed there during the iconoclastic period (7th-8th century). This cave became a place of worship for many believers and in the 14th century, a church was built around the cave to honour the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. This church was
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gradually converted to a women’s monastery and in 1978, it became an Ecumenical Conference Centre. Currently, it operates as a religious monument that also consists of an ecclesiastical museum. Geographically, Ayia Napa lies at the eastern part of Cyprus, in close proximity to Cape Greco, an astonishing seaside national park and a pristine Mediterranean landscape with breathtaking views of the coastline. At Cape Greco visitors can hike and cycle, through the nature trails and luxuriate in the exploration of the mystical sights of its ancient sea caves. The town of Ayia Napa is situated 8 kilometres from Protaras, a popular tourist resort with outstanding golden sandy beaches and an atmosphere of pure calm, rendering it as an ideal place for relaxation and recreation. Ayia Napa is believed to contain a location that is filled with the principles of comfort and easiness, where every visitor who enjoys travelling has the ability to revel in the short distances around this town’s periphery. During the summer season, Ayia Napa is visited by thousands of tourists, mainly from Northern and Western Europe to experience the lifestyle this town retains. Specifically, three types of people mostly visit Ayia Napa; young singles, who are usually under the age of 30, couples and families all being attracted by the amazing weather and the numerous sandy beaches, just to mention a few, Nissi Beach, Limanaki Beach and Makronissos Beach. The summer season for Ayia Napa commences in April and ends in October. However, the busiest time of year in the town is considered to be between June and late August, with the hours of midnight lasting until 4 am due to the lively nightlife scene that it creates. The town’s centre with its line of bars, big events with special guest appearances and famous DJ’s generate weeks of great amusement that turn the streets of Ayia Napa into a huge party. The town’s crowded bars even transmute to an arena of competition with all kinds of music blasting out as these bars contend for attraction. The acts of people dancing on bars and flirting become the protagonist role, producing electrifying moments of thrill each night and making Ayia Napa a one of a kind summer resort. Although the region is well-known for its party lifestyle, it is not the only aspect on show for tourists preferring a more peaceful and serene holiday. There are numerous churches and chapels to visit of distinct architectural beauty. Notably, the 15th century Venetian-era monastery of Ayia Napa, which has already been mentioned, in the centre of the town, is a famous ancient landmark cut into rock with its charm reminding of a time when Ayia Napa was a small quiet fishing village. One of the larger churches in the area that was built due to the augmentation of the population and the need for a new church is that of the Holy Virgin mother of God, which was constructed in 1990 and is found southwest of the monastery of Ayia Napa, both churches celebrating the birth of Virgin Mary on the 8th of September. Agios Georgios church is located near the centre of Ayia Napa, at the harbour, with an alluring designed structure that emphasises its contrast to the the town’s hustle and bustle. The church of Ayia Thekla is found on the western edge of Ayia Napa in the newly developed area of Ayia Thekla. Two other churches situated on the western part of Ayia Napa are the chapel of Ayia Varvara and the monolith of Ayia Mavri. All these churches have become a symbol to the town as they depict the unspoiled features of the area, reflecting upon the human spirit that remains invariable to the continuous changing world. CONTINUE ON PAGE 6
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Ayia napa is famous in keeping hold of the sea as its strongest possession. Located at the centre of Ayia Napa is the Thalassa Municipal Museum, which was opened in August 2005. The museum’s main focus is that of the sea and how its elements have had a major impact on the island’s history. The exhibits on display at the museum cover a wide range of historic periods from present times to prehistoric eras. The building is comprised of three floors providing a pleasant experience to visitors with its unique construction materials. It provides a great amount of information regarding the island’s historic periods and through the numerous digital panels, the evolution of Cyprus through the centuries is depicted. The most popular item on display is the ‘Kyrenia II’ vessel, which was built in 1985 for scientific purposes as an exact replica of the ancient ship of Kyrenia (400 BC). Other exhibits on dis-
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play comprise of marine wildlife, a few examples being fish, turtles, seabirds, seals and other impressive creatures of the sea, which live in the island’s surrounding sparkling sea waters . To the west of the town, the Makronissos Tombs archaeological site can be found. This is an ancient burial site consisting of nineteen tombs used during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Excavations began between 1989 and 1990 after being sponsored by the municipality. The tombs are located at a stepped road leading down towards a rectangular entrance. The tomb enclosures are very similar to each other and each one has three benches on all sides with a trench running through its centre. The dead were placed in clay sarcophagi and one of these is on display at the Thalassa Municipal Museum. The site also has a small sanctuary constructed of large irregular stone blocks. In addition, facing out towards the sea is the Ayia Napa Sculpture Park, an open air museum. The sculpture park is located on the crossroad of Cape Greco Avenue and Kryou Nerou, in an area of 20,000 square metres. The rocky landscape slopes down to the sea and provides a serene and peaceful backdrop to this visually exciting display of modern artwork. This park was inaugurated in 2014 with the aim of creating a completely new tourist experience. The open air sculpture museum features both large and small works of art created by more than 20 sculptors from around the world. The park continues to grow with more works being added each winter by talented international artists. A new attraction in Ayia Napa for 2015 was the dried plant and cactus park. The municipality of Ayia Napa began planting this previously desolate area in early 2015 with a variety of cacti and succulents with the aim of creating the Mediterranean’s largest cactus park with 6000-8000 plants. The park winds around the rocky landscape in this peaceful area just on the eastern edge of Ayia Napa. There are spectacular views out to sea and the area is a calm and serene spot to enjoy the open air. There is a combination of both large and small plants, which as the years progress are expected to flourish and make this area truly impressive. The park can be found at the end of Kyrou Nerou Street in the Grecian Bay area as you head towards Cape Greco. It is adjacent to the Sculpture Park. No holiday to Ayia Napa is complete without a boat trip or two. This is a great way to top up your tan and the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean are very inviting. A boat trip is a fun day out for anyone wanting to view the stunning coastline in this area or just do something different than lay on the beach all day. The cooling sea breezes will refresh your body and mind. The coast on the eastern side of Cyprus is dominated by the dramatic peak of Cape Greco. You can also view the impressive rock structures at the sea caves and enjoy the breeze as you sail towards the ghost town of Famagusta on a full day cruise. Most boat trips journey past the popular holiday resort of Protaras and many stop at the pretty cove at Konnos bay or the nearby Blue Lagoon for a swim stop. Ayia Napa retains an everlasting beauty with elements of astonishing brightness, revealing a life of pleasure through the extension of fun and entertainment. In Ayia Napa, aspects of loneliness and boredom dissolve and spheres of activity enclose the town’s vitality. Therefore, do not hesitate to visit this party-oriented town that will not only energise your inner self, but will also provide you with the opportunity to get to know your limits through the thrilling experience of extreme water sports that will raise your adrenaline to levels that are unattainable by nature!
The place for prayer. The place for worshipping nature. For some, a place to escape from everyday life. For others, it is regarded as their daily routine. Moments of everydayness blended with moments of relaxation. Common denominators: experiences, satisfaction, peace and diversity of the ordinary. It is almost certain that whoever reaches or lives permanently in Cyprus will feel at least something of the above. The island is large and the options are countless. The time that is required is from an hour to unlimited in order for someone to live what would please him or her the most.
epoch. The religious heritage of Cyprus, rich in history and monuments, overwhelms any Christian visitor. Magnificent large churches, small stonebuilt churches, Byzantine hagiography in churches and monasteries with ecclesiastical museums elicit admiration worthy of any space that houses the sublime faith to the Christ. The passage of time and the religious perception of the Christian Cypriots have given a large number of churches and a diversity in both architecture and the size of churches that someone could observe.
Churches and monasteries The churches and monasteries in Cyprus are hospitable to visitors. From parish churches in towns to Byzantine churches on the Troodos Mountains, chapels but also monasteries offer tranquility to the visitor. Places of peace and communication with God boost human stamina for the hardship of our
Wine The wine records its own historical course on the island, which in recent years through the “Wine Routes” it highlights the particular characteristics of the Cypriot wine. Routes to the wine villages, visits to vineyards, wineries and local wine museums comprise for the visitor as sources that reveal the local wine. The journey with destination to wine is an experience of wine tastes combined with traditional dishes. The sun, the Mediterranean climate and the fertile soil are factors for the cultivation of vines on the island since antiquity, but also for the production of quality wines with the top being the sweet and fragrant Commandaria. The expansion of vineyards in some villages became the core, which around it rotate the daily lives of the residents. The wine as power became a tradition and a long-lasting history. It shaped the landscape, where the presence of vines dominates in plains and ridges of low mountains. Cypriot cuisine A unique and highly enjoyable pleasure for many! In Cyprus, as nowhere else, the great variety of food, the cleanliness and the quality of local ingredients all play a vital role for someone to feel completely satisfied by the gastronomy of the place. Despite the plethora cuisine choices, the traditional Cypriot cuisine ranks first with its king being the well-known “Cyprus Meze”. The parade of the various appetisers, cooked and grilled dishes that will pass from the table tastefully compensate anyone who may think about his or her silhouette. Do not miss for any reason the experience of the Cyprus Meze, but also and of the other traditional dishes in a tavern, even if you escape for a while from your usual diet. It is no coincidence that the Cypriot cuisine gains more and more fans, who seek it in many parts of the earth!
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The acquaintance with tradition If you do not get to know the tradition of a place, then your tour is not yet complete. Cyprus, scattered with villages, divulges through these a more crystallised concept on hospitality, the beauties of nature and the joys of a more human everydayness. In the villages, the morals and customs are inherited from generation to generation. Many of these such as the traditional occupations that have been annihilated by the industry revive through small festivals that are mainly organised during the summer by each village. The architecture that characterises most of the villages in Cyprus is simple. It combines stone for building walls, tiled roofs and protruding chimneys, narrow streets and courtyards with every kind of container that has been made a flower pot. This simplicity is the characteristic beauty of the villages of Cyprus, which in combination with their rich cultural heritage and natural landscape are becoming interesting destinations for touring at any time of the year.
The location of Cyprus in the Eastern Mediterranean gives it a special religious significance. The island keeps hold of religious icons, mosaics and artifacts, as well as ecclesiastical architecture, such as Byzantine churches with important iconography and rare icons, chapels and monasteries that speak for the intense dedication to traditions and the close interconnection of art with religious worship, throughout the centuries. The Orthodox Church of Cyprus is the predominant Church on the island. The overwhelming majority of Cypriots belong to the Orthodox Church of Cyprus. The presence and the contribution of the Orthodox Church are significant to the historical, cultural and social life of Cyprus. Byzantine Art and Architecture Byzantine art and architecture is featured widely in many churches and monasteries in Cyprus. A window mural or a mural wall-painting will relate a story. The frescoes were created originally for the poorer community, many of whom were unable to read and write. The icons hold a very religious significance and some of the religious art work are even believed to possess miraculous powers. Pilgrimages are made to certain sites in order to be able to light candles and pray before the icons and some of the larger monasteries still provide overnight accommodation facilities to the pilgrims. Examples of Byzantine art and architecture are displayed in churches that are found on the Troodos Mountains. Ten buildings are found on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. THE TEN BUILDINGS ON UNESCO’S WORLD HERITAGE LIST Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis at Kakopetria The church of Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis "Saint Nicholas of the Roof", near the village of Kakopetria, belonged to a monastery. It is completely painted with murals dating back from the 11th to the 17th centuries and it is considered to be one of the most interesting Byzantine churches on the island. The church took its name from the steep pitched timber roof that was built to protect it from the weather. Agios Ioannis Lampadistis at Kalopanagiotis Originally a monastery, this complex consists of three churches – Agios Herakleidios, Ioannis Lampadistis and a Latin chapel, all of which share a single enormous timber roof. The monastery is situated centrally in the region of the Troodos Mountains, just off the village of Kalopanagiotis. The core monastery church, which dates back to the 11th century, consists of an arched cross-in-square structure. The Agios Ioannis Lampadistis chapel was built in the 12th century to the north of the first church and rested on the tomb of the Saint. Later on, the chapel collapsed and was for its most part rebuilt in the 18th century. A new chapel was constructed to the north of that of Agios Ioannis during the second half of the 15th century. It later became known as the “Latin chapel” as it was believed to have been built for the Latins. The timbered roof that completely covers the roofs of all the three churches and that gives the complex its unique appearance was added at a later date. Furthermore, the Agios Herakleidios church has excellent 13th and 16th century frescoes. Panagia tou Araka at Lagoudera The 12th century church of Panagia tou Araka stands just outside the village of Lagoudera and boasts some of the finest frescoes of the late TOURIST PRESS - Page 10
Comnenian style (1192). Together with the churches of Panagia Asinou and Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis, it is considered to be one of the most important Byzantine churches on the island. Visitors should ask for the priest - who can be found on the premises next to the church - to escort them to the church. Panagia Asinou at Nikitari The famous Byzantine church of Asinou has some of the finest examples of Byzantine wall-painting on the island. Asinou comes from the Greek “Asine”, which is an ancient city that was founded by immigrants from the Greek city Argolis, in the 11th century BC. The church dates back to the early 12th century and the murals inside date back from the 12th century to the 17th century. Visitors should ask for the priest of the Nikitari village to escort them. Panagia tou Moutoulla at Moutoullas The tiny 13th century chapel of Panagia tou Moutoulla is found in the Moutoulla village. This chapel of the Virgin Mary has rare frescoes of Saint George and Saint Christopher - both arrayed for battle in Byzantine armour - and of the Virgin Mary and the infant Christ. As yet unrestored, they are redolent of history. The church is one of the earliest dated examples of its type, with a steep pitched wooden roof. Visitors can obtain the key from the adjacent house. Archangelos Michail at Pedoulas The church of Archangelos Michail at Pedoulas was built and decorated in 1474. It is a very small building with a usual sloping mountain roof. The church is completely decorated on two levels, with 11 compositions from the Festival Cycle on the top and depictions of the saints at the bottom. The Crucifixion and the Ascension are depicted in the pediments. It is an example of post-Byzantine paintings, 15 years before the Venetian rule. The key can be found at the adjacent house. Timios Stavros at Pelendri The church of Timios Stavros is situated in a central area of the Troodos mountain range, at the south end of the village of Pelendri, which is attested in the sources since the late 12th century. The 14th century church of Timiou Stavrou is decorated with exquisite wall-paintings of the Paleological period. Panagia Podithou at Galata This church is situated near the village of Galata, in Troodos. Furthermore, the church was erected in 1502 and it once belonged to a monastery. Its paintings are of the Italo-Byzantine style, which appeared on the island towards the end of the 15th century. Stavros tou Agiasmati at Platanistasa The 15th century church of Stavros tou Agiasmati is situated about 3 kilometres outside the mountain village of Platanistasa. The church retains the most complete cycles of mural paintings of the second half of the 15th century in Cyprus. The key to the church can be obtained from the village priest. Metamorphosis tou Sotiros at Palechori The Metamorphosis tou Sotiros Church (Transformation of the Saviour) is an early 16th century chapel, which is found on a hill overlooking the beautiful old village of Palechori, in Troodos. Its interior is completely painted with one of the most complete series of murals of the post-Byzantine period, in Cyprus.
Kefalonia is a wooded island that is surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea and is considered to be an island of mystery and strange phenomena! It is the largest island of the Ionian Islands and invites you to discover and to even identify everything that it has to offer since it is regarded as an island of endless amusements and splendid scenery! Few places worldwide have the ability to gather so many geologically “strange” phenomena and one of these is the island of Kefalonia. Apart from the natural beauties of the island, its “geological mysteries” cause the interest to both, visitors and scientists from all over the world. Today with a tour through the island one can see close at hand the grandeur of nature being contrary to laws and rules and “acting freely” through the creation of “artworks” on the canvas of the Kefalonian landscape.
Despite being given some explanations for the phenomena by geologists, imputing them to the position of the island, which is found at the junction of the Earth’s tectonic plates, they still compose a scene of mystery that is reinforced by mythology, legends, traditions and religion, offering uniqueness to the island. Melissani Cave Here, the sea water mysteriously disappears at some point below Argostoli, the island’s capital, at the so-called “Katavothres”. It flows with momentum on the ground and underground traverses the entire island, from west to east, a distance of about 15 kilometres to reach the Melissani Cave, which is considered to be an amazing grotto, a real “miracle” of nature. At Midday, CONTINUE ON PAGE 16
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when the sun’s rays enter from the cave’s roof and are perpendicular on the surface of the water, the water of the lake creates turquoise reflections on the cave’s walls, an extraordinary spectacle generated by the elements of magic and regarded as one of its kind. The grotto took its name either from the legend of Nymph Melissanis, who is believed to have committed suicide in the lake because the Greek God Pan would not reciprocate her love or from the legend that states that the shepherdess Melissanthi died after falling into the lake while she was chasing one of her sheep. Today, the cave could be visited from an artificial entrance which, through a tunnel, leads to the main hall. The tour is done by boats along the entire
length of the lake, while it composes an idyllic place for weddings. Saint Gerasimos Saint Gerasimos, the patron saint of the island and the founder of the monasterial landscape that operates until today with monks living an ascetic tradition, has an imperishable body! This saint is regarded as recent and his blissful repose took place on the 15th of August 1579. However, since on this day the Virgin Mary is also celebrated, Saint Gerasimos is celebrated on the following day, precisely, on the 16th of August. When Saint Gerasimos was a monk he performed miracles to believers and his body, when it was exhumed three years after his death, in 1581, was found incorrupt and it is said that it gave off a pleasant smell, a sweet fragrance like that of perfume. Since then, it has been placed in a glass case and everyone who visits the monastery has the chance to observe such a supernatural phenomenon. Behind the glass, the saint seems as if he is sleeping and not a body deprived of life since his relic has remained miraculously intact. The Holy Snakes of the Virgin Mary The church of Panagia Fidoussa (Our Lady of the Snakes) is located in the village of Markopoulo. Every year in early August, the so-called snakes of the Virgin Mary make their appearance, crawling around the church and onto the image of the Virgin until the 15th of August, the feast day of the Assumption of Mary. These snakes consist of a characteristic cross on their head and are harmless as they are considered to be holy. Indeed, their appearance is regarded as a good omen for the year to follow, while their absence is believed to be a portent of bad luck. Characteristically, it is mentioned that in 1940 and 1953, the snakes did not appear and major disasters followed. Specifically, in 1940 the island was occupied by the Italians and in 1953, it was struck by devastating earthquakes.
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The Drogarati Cave One of the biggest and most beautiful sights on the island and in extension, of the Ionian Islands is the Drogarati Cave, where the formation of stalactites and stalagmites has made its appearance for thousands of years. This cave is considered to be a natural “work of art” of millions of years, since every a hundred years the length of the stalactites and stalagmites grows to only just 1 cm. The cave is located a short distance from the grotto of Melissani and was discovered 300 years ago, when during a strong earthquake a part of it was crashed and hence, the cave was revealed. Nowadays, this area composes the entrance from which the view of the cave is truly magical. According to the archaeologists, the part which is currently free to access is only a part of it, since they are almost certain that the cave communicates and with other caves or cave formations in the region, which until today remain unknown and are hidden in the bowels of the earth. The depth of the cave is approximately 60 metres, with an average temperature of 18 °C and sufficiently contains high humidity that reaches up to 90%. It holds excellent and natural acoustics to the point that even a whisper will reach clear as crystal to the human ear. The atmosphere of this spectacle is astonishing and generates a sense of mystery. However, how many other natural “treasures” are hidden under the Kefalonian earth that no one has ever had the chance to discover?
Kefalonia, apart from the “hidden magic corners” that it keeps hold of such as lakes, caves and mountains, where orchids grow and goats and horses graze freely on the mountain peaks, boasts a variety of fantastic restaurants and taverns, where the visitor has the chance to discover an amazingly traditional cuisine through a blend of homemade flavours. Here, culinary aspirations are not placed to the limit, to a single piece of “moussaka” and a traditional salad bowl; contrariwise, the visitor will be pleasantly surprised as the discovery of “another Greece” is undertaken through a journey of tastes. It it is more than certain that during your stay in Kefalonia you will enjoy scrumptious food at the plethora of restaurants, which offer delicious dining options and an exceptional experience within a surrounding of flavours. On the island, it will not be hard to find what you truly enjoy tasting since this land is regarded as highly developed in terms of tourism services. You will find, even in the most remote corner, restaurants of all kinds, while in the most popular places on the island the choices are simply…endless! You
will even discover, in many beautiful spots of the island, restaurants and taverns that existed to this day solely in your imagination with most of them retaining a breathtaking view and as a main background, the crystal blue sea, where small boats commute transporting fresh fish on land. Some of the best places to visit for a complete pleasure in taste are the peninsula of great natural beauty, Lassi, the popular beach, Makris Gialos, the picturesque town of Lixouri, the beloved resort of Skala and the largest town on the island, the historic Argostoli. You may try the Kefalonian pies, which are incredibly delicious and considered to be the trademark of the island. They are made with homemade dough and contain a filling, which could be any of the following: rice with meat, leek and spinach, vegetables, cod and octopus. The Bourbourelia: is a type of pea soup with salt, pepper and olive oil. The Aliada: is a local dish that consists of octopus juice, garlic and mashed potatoes. The Strapatsada: eggs with tomatoes slightly fried in local olive oil, salt and pepper. The Riganada: sliced bread, either toasted or untoasted, oil and oregano. Kolokythokorfades: squash blossoms steeped in CONTINUE ON PAGE 20
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flour slurry, egg, feta cheese and fragrant dill, the perfect partner to enjoy a pleasant Kefalonian dish, which are fried and served hot. Tsigaridia: various sauced greens, which are basically cooked with a lot of tomatoes and herbs. These are just some of the delicious dishes that the Kefalonian cuisine has to offer, since you will discover later on and many other tasty combinations, which will become even more tasty if you accompany them with the local and fantastic white wine, Rombola. Rombola has been awarded as one of the best white wines worldwide. It has a delicate aroma and a unique flavour, holding as a main characteristic the scent of the white grape variety named as “Rombola”. At this point, it is worth noting that the vines for the production of Rombola thrive only on the plateau of the community of Omalon, at an altitude of 700 metres, on the slopes of the beautiful and lush mountain, Ainos and next to the monastery of Saint Gerasimos, the patron saint of the island of Kefalonia. By being on holiday in Kefalonia, you will surely not miss to taste the Kefalonian dishes, which are encircled by a traditional character. During all day and night the marvellous smell of food that fills the streets will take you for sure
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into a traditional restaurant, where you will discover an unforgettable cuisine through the aspects of an Ionian island. Importantly, the Kefalonian cuisine is dominated by local products such as meat, fish, olive oil, vegetables and cheese that will surprise you day by day for not only their quality, but for their purity, as well. Kefalonia is not only well-known for its delicious food but for its mouth-watering desserts, too. If you enter a pastry shop in Kefalonia, you will realise that you can find everything you may desire. Nevertheless, if you are searching for something traditional the most famous are the Kataifi and the Baklava. However, there is also a puff-paste covered with sugar and cinnamon and filled with an amazingly delicious cream, named as Bougatsa, Mizithropita, a scrumptious cheese-based dessert and Ravani, a honey cake of delightful taste. The best way to end your meal is with a traditional Greek coffee. For the Kefalonians, brewing coffee is regarded as a ritual. You can drink this coffee either bitter, sweet or very sweet and it must be drank slowly to allow the coffee to settle down on the bottom of the cup. Finally, what will be kept in your memory is an adventure of indulgence through the essence of genuine flavours
Pedoulas, a village of breathtaking beauty, is located on the northern side of the Troodos Mountains, in the Marathasa Valley of the Nicosia district. Pedoulas sits at an altitude of 1100 metres above sea level and can be reached from Nicosia, the island’s capital, by following the E901, then the B9, followed by the E908 and finally the F960. According to tradition, the name of village “Pedoulas” came from two words, “pediada” which means valley and “laos” which means people. Pedoulas attracts a lot of tourists throughout the year, being a very popular resort for Cypriots during the summer and winter months. Visitors come to Pedoulas looking forward to enjoying the refreshing cool and dry climate of the area, while taking a break away from the noise of the city and the strain of modern life. In Pedoulas the visitor enjoys the natural beauty of the place, while experiencing local traditional hospitality. The village offers a great choice of nature trails for those who love to walk and cycle through the woods, rendering it as an ideal destination for nature
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lovers, who seek tranquillity through nature sounds. Exceptionally, the village sits amidst orchards and is particularly known for its cherries and the products made from the fruit. Winter magic appears in the village during the winter season, when Pedoulas is covered in a blanket of shimmering snow with a panoramic view of brilliant white. Furthermore, one can visit many interesting places such as the local Byzantine Museum, which exhibits valuable religious items coming from 6 of the 12 chapels of the village. The Byzantine Museum was founded in 1999 in order to house and preserve rare icons and sacred historical objects that were found in the ancient Byzantine churches of the village. At the Folklore Museum one can see tools and pictures that bring to life a number of traditional crafts such as those of the chair-maker, the baker, the metal-worker, the zivania producer, as well as many other articles related to village life. The historical and cultural heritage of the village is housed in the Folklore Museum and all the historical objects that are found there reflect the customs, traditions and occupations of the locals. It is noteworthy to mention the centuries-old cedar tree of Pedoulas, which can be seen on the left side of the main road towards the village of Kalopanagiotis. It is 18 metres high, 80 centimetres in diameter and dates back to 1840. The village is very significant in religious terms thanks to its important church of Archangelos Michael (1474), which ranks among the most impressive Byzantine churches in Cyprus with its amazing frescoes. The internal walls of the church are decorated with wonderful wall paintings and this church is part of the route of 10 Byzantine churches, which are included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Another significant religious site in the village is the church of Virgin Mary of Vorini with its timber roof. This church is found in a lush green location under giant oak trees and its ancient portable icons are exhibited in the Byzantine Museum of Pedoulas and Nicosia. Very impressive is the church of the Holy Cross at the centre of the village that dates back to 1935 with its large dome and the two high bell towers. The magnificent icon partition and the lively frescoes are an astonishing additional feature to its invention. The precious Holy Cross is kept inside the temple. The one side of the Cross is gold-plated and depicts the birth of Christ and the other the Crucifixion. Inside the Cross is a fragment of the actual Holy Cross that came from Byzantium. Relics of Saints are kept in a silver reliquary. Furthermore, the barrel-vaulted church of the “Stavros of Fithkias” was built with a contemporary architectural style. Its towering Cross is 28 metres high and next to the church of the Holy Cross is a monument built in 2011 in honour of those killed in the Balkan War of 1912-14. The “Stelios Environmental Centre” of Pedoulas has played an important role to the village’s development. This centre offers environmental studies to 4500 students annually at elementary, secondary and University level. It has been operating since 01/11/2005 under the auspices of the Cyprus Pedagogical Institute. Since 2011, it also operates a Biological Workshop, fully furnished and equipped with scientific instruments and consists of a sleeping dormitory. After your excursion to the village or while travelling, you may enjoy an astonishing view of the village with panoramic natural scenery of the greencovered surroundings, the traditionally-built houses of the locals and the church of the Holy Cross, by relaxing with a coffee or by tasting extremely delicious dishes at the restaurant of the stone-built Two Flowers Hotel. From the restaurant’s windows, you can takeamazing pictures of the village and keeping hold to them as a one of a kind memory. At the Two Flowers Hotel you will not only find warm hospitality, but also a friendship that can last for a lifetime!
Do you wish to see some of the most fabulous coves and bays of Cyprus that would otherwise be totally inaccessible from the land? Do you want to chill out or perhaps enjoy snorkelling in the crystal clear Mediterranean waters? A relaxing Cyprus boat trip is the best way to live such an experience. A er all, there are literally hundreds of beau ful beaches scattered along the coast of Cyprus. You can weigh anchor and spend hours swimming or snorkelling in the clear blue Mediterranean Sea. The waters around this beau ful islanded paradise stay warm enough for swimming right through to November; due to the heat the water stores up during the hot summer months. All Kinds of Boat Trips There are many kinds of boat trips, which sail out of the li le harbours and fishing shelters that are do ed all along the coast. Whether your preference is for fishing or just a nice relaxing pleasurable cruise, there is surely a trip that is just right for you. The fishing trips are many and varied from the chartering of a small private motor launch right up to the most professional and modern vessel that will take large fishing par es right out into the deep water. Pleasurable Cruises For most holiday makers, the ideal Cyprus boat trips are the ones that meander up the coast, stopping off to find a spot for lunch and a swim. There are plenty of such places to choose from that are not expensive either. Some of the most pleasurable cruises sail out of the lovely harbour of Ayia
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Napa, which is situated right off the main promenade. There is a superb moonlight cruise, which sails during the evening mes and includes dinner and a disco too, to live and enjoy the fun of an agreeable journey! Feeling Adventurous? Hire a Power Boat! Are you feeling a li le more adventurous? Well, then the best thing to do would be to hire a power boat with your friends or family, for an hour. They are easy to sail and usually take up to eight people. With this boat, you are able to get to go where you like and want to. There is a great choice of cra available for hire and the prices do vary, so it is worth shopping around first for the best deal. You might even want to keep it for a whole day, in order to stop off in a secluded bay for some private sun bathing or snorkelling without the hassle. Sailing with Modern Catamarans Do you like sailing? The wind does the work, along with the crew, whilst you relax and experience the thrill of a real yacht under sail. There are several modern catamarans and even a tradi onal schooner, who offer organised trips for those who prefer sailing rather than power boa ng. They offer dinner on board and catering for par es or weddings too, in order to make your long day extra special! Whatever you decide, you can be sure that your Cyprus holiday will be extremely memorable if you do something out of the ordinary. What could be more tremendous than that? An En rely New and Unique A rac on Do you want to live a completely unique experience, to enjoy an undersea cruise with a submarine? Cyprus brings for everyone a true experience by exhibi ng closed-up, fascina ng forms of life of the undersea world and of course the magnificent Zenobia shipwreck, which is undoubtedly the best underwater a rac on of the Mediterranean and is classified, as one of the best ten shipwreck dives in the world. The wreck lies within 16 metres to its topside and 40 metres to the seabed. It had two lorry decks, a further lower deck, accommoda on and restaurant areas. It is now a home to many species of fish, such as the Amber Jack, the Grouper and the Barracuda. Usually, the excursion is animated with a diver’s show and the feeding of fish. The Zenobia shipwreck has been designated as a real treat for an experienced diver. The Alexandria Wreck Cyprus is an old fishing trawler that sank in around 2006. The story goes that it was on its way to be scrapped and whilst being towed from Larnaca to Limassol, a storm broke out and the vessel sank. Since the Alexandria went down, it has created a fantas c ar ficial reef around the wreck and as a result there are a variety of fish that can now be seen on the dive. The first thing that you may no ce when you first begin to approach or swim around the Alexandria wreck is that you experience an eerie feeling as the wreck comes and goes in and out of the gloom (it’s like a scene from a movie). Diving in Cyprus is really an unforge able experience. The secrets of an empire are standing at your feet if you only learn to breathe under the water. You will enter a world where only few have the key and will be able to see the underwater paradise through the bluest waters, swimming silent close to thousands of fish.
The gorgeous east coast of Cyprus certainly boasts some of the very beaches on the island, but it’s not just about lazing by the sandy shores. When it comes to family fun, peel yourselves away from the sun lounger and make your way to one of the most talked about spots in Cyprus: WaterWorld Themed Waterpark. But why do people enjoy it so much? And what’s on offer? We give you the insider lowdown on a place where you can enjoy a mighty splash! 1. It’s one of the biggest themed waterparks in the whole of Europe - an impressive feat to say the least. You can spend the whole day here without getting bored, with more than 25 waterslides and attractions for the whole family to enjoy! From the mighty Serpentine Slides and the Fun Chariot Chase, to The Fall of Icarus and The Quest of Hercules, there is heaps to enjoy! 2. It has won heaps of awards, rated one of the best waterparks in Europe! It was recently rated number 2 among best waterparks in Europe ranked by TripAdvisor and came in at number 14 in the world. That’s not to forget that
the park has received 25 International awards of excellence for marketing and innovation from the WWA – World Waterpark Association and IAAPA – International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions in the U.S. WaterWorld also won the Trip Advisor Travellers’ Choice Attractions Award 2014 and The Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2015. And it received worldwide acclaim when it was featured by CNN as one of the world’s top 12 waterparks. Popsugar has also rated it as one of the ‘5 Wildest Waterparks around the World’ and the list goes on! 3. There’s new fun to be had this year with ‘Thunderbolt and Lightning’ slide. With great twists and turns, you’ll whizz down the slide with phenomenal speed. Fantastic for thrill seekers, steep drops are to be expected! 4. You’ll burn calories! Yes, that’s right. After all, you’re dashing about, up the stairs to get onto the rides, burning calories as you work up a sweat and feel that adrenaline pump through your body whilst getting a spectacular tan… and you’ll have a great time too. 5. Not just about wild fun under the sun, adults can treat themselves to a little pampering session and plenty of downtime. Kick back and enjoy a hydro massage in the Aphrodite’s Baths adult pool with bubble benches, or kick back at The River Odyssey – WaterWorld’s Lazy River which meanders around the park amidst crumbling stone pillars, Cyclops the one eyed Polyfimos and the Monster of Scilla. And that’ not to forget sitting back for a pedicure at the fish spa! 6. Curb the hunger pangs with plenty of delights on offer. From quality burgers to home cooked style grub and even sushi, there’s plenty to tuck into. 7. You might even bump into a celebrity or well-known personality. After all, the waterpark has received visits from top names like Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United), Ray Parlour (Arsenal), A.M. SNiPER, Chris Brown, Tyga and the list goes on. 8. It’s a safe environment for the whole family. With over 100 lifeguards keeping a close watch over the rides, games and pool areas, there is always someone to ensure help is at hand in case of any accident. The water quality is also checked on a daily basis, while the staff are also happy to provide any assistance needed. 9. You can expect all day entertainment steeped in Greek mythology. WaterWorld has introduced an amazing programme of in-house entertainment, including children’s games, dance aerobics and the fabulous Greek-themed acrobatic show! All this, in a setting that has been carefully planned over the years, with the whole park filled with Greek columns, fountains, plazas and statues of all the Greek Gods. 10. WaterWorld cares about creating a better world and really takes the environment into consideration by providing recycle bins, while using solar energy to conserve electricity, as well as utilising water recycling/purifying systems.
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For more information on everything that the WaterWorld Waterpark has to offer, visit www.waterworldwaterpark.com for all the latest information. Article by mycyprusinsider.com
The village of Kakopetria, a place of admiration and cultural attraction, is located south-west of Nicosia, the island’s capital and is built upon the foothill of the Troodos Mountains – specifically, in the north side of the mountain range. Palia (Old) Kakopetria is the most beautiful and picturesque part of the village and it is built on the place where Kakopetria had first arisen (currently regarded as the Old Village). Today, this part of the village is found on the west side of the village and is surrounded by the rivers of Karkotis and Garillis. Palia Kakopetria is under the protection of the Department of Antiquities and it is classified as an ancient monument. The new village of Kakopetria, with its large modern houses and their tiled roofs, is located in the eastern part of the valley. Kakopetria retains an astonishing National Forest park with an immense natural beauty. Two watermills were generated in the village due to the abundant waters of the rivers of Karkotis and Garillis. The first watermill was named “Milos tis Gonias”, meaning the watermill in the corner and the second “Milos tou Hadjistavrinou”, meaning the watermill of Hadjistavrinos. The watermills used to grind grain and barley to make flour. The two watermills of Kakopetria worked in order to cover the needs of the village, but also for the vicinal villages especially in periods of droughts. After the cessation of its operations, the watermill of “Milos tis Gonias” was restored in 1980 and is nowadays a tourist sight.
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With donations and after an initiative by the inhabitants of the Kakopetria community, the church of Agios (Saint) Panteleimon is currently the main church of the village. The re-construction of the church started in 1989 and ended in 1994. It is a rather large church with a capacity of around 700 people. The memory of Saint Panteleimon is celebrated on the 27th of July, when many Christians from the surrounding regions attend this great feast. At the church of Agios Panteleimon, there is also a chapel dedicated to Agios Fanourios. At the entrance of Kakopetria, the church of Panagia Theotokos is found. It is a small church that was constructed in 1514 and seems to be a Byzantine style chapel. At the beautiful central square of Kakopetria with the tall plane trees and coffee shopsyou can try the traditional homemade sweets of the area and sit round the fireplace during the winter. The square is just a few minutes away from the old quarter of the village, which is a listed area with cobbled streets where old houses have been carefully restored and reconstructed. You can enjoy your stay in Kakopetria in two very hospitable hotels of the area, the Ekali Hotel and Minaides Hotel, which are both located just a couple of minutes of walking distance from the village’s centre. Two picturesque hotels nestling among pines and plane trees, overlooking the picturesque mountain village of Kakopetria in the heart of the Troodos Mountains.