About Place
- "A hidden gem with a rich history and stunning beaches."
- "A town where ancient ruins meet modern-day relaxation."
- "Unparalleled diving spots and a vibrant cultural scene."
Reasons to Visit
- Rich Historical Heritage :
- Home to well-preserved medieval architecture like the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, originally a Gothic cathedral.
- Offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with its significant historical sites and ancient city walls.
- The ancient city of Salamis with impressive ruins of Roman-era structures.
- Pristine Beaches and Water Activities :
- Stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation.
- Renowned diving spots featuring underwater ruins and vibrant marine life.
- Fig Tree Bay, known for its turquoise waters and soft sandy beaches.
- Unique Blend of Cultures :
- A fusion of Greek and Turkish Cypriot influences reflected in local cuisine, festivals, and daily life.
- Traditional mezes, folk music, and local crafts offering an immersive cultural experience.
- Warm hospitality and vibrant local markets showcasing handmade crafts and traditional products.
Visa
- EU Citizens : No visa required for up to 90 days.
- USA, Canada, Australia : Visa-free for stays up to 90 days.
- Other Countries : May require a visa; it's advisable to check with the Cypriot consulate or embassy in your home country.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from Destination :
- Approximate cost for two round-trip tickets from a major European city to Larnaca: $600.
- Hotel Cost :
- Average cost per night: $100
- Total for 3 nights: $300
- Food Cost :
- Average meal cost per person: Lunch $15, Dinner $25
- Total for 6 meals: $240
- Activity Cost :
- Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque: Free
- Othello Castle: $10 per person
- Fig Tree Bay: Free
- Cape Greco Park: $5 per person
- Archaeological Museum: $5 per person
- Salamis Ruins: $7 per person
- Total: $54
- Near Destination Travel Cost :
- Car rental for 3 days: $150
- Total estimated expenses: $1344
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Exploring Historic Ammochostos
Begin your journey with a visit to the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, appreciating its Gothic architecture. Next, walk through the ancient city walls from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM, absorbing the medieval atmosphere. For lunch, head to Petek Patisserie at 1:30 PM to enjoy traditional Cypriot pastries. In the afternoon, visit the Othello Castle from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, known for its connection to Shakespeare's play. For dinner, try authentic meze at Aspava Restaurant around 7:00 PM. Stroll through the old town under the evening lights to conclude your day.
Day 2 : Beach and Nature
Start your day at Fig Tree Bay from 9:00 AM, soaking in the sun and turquoise waters until 12:00 PM. Have lunch at Nissiotis Beach Restaurant at 1:00 PM, savoring fresh seafood. Spend the afternoon exploring Cape Greco National Forest Park from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, enjoying hiking and panoramic views. Dine at Kalamies Restaurant at 7:00 PM, known for its waterfront setting. End the day with a nightcap at a beach bar, enjoying the serene sounds of the sea.
Day 3 : Cultural Immersion
Begin with a visit to the Famagusta Archaeological Museum from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Have a light lunch at Ayia Napa Square Café at 12:00 PM. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of Salamis Ruins from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, exploring ancient Roman remains. Dinner at the traditional To Steki Taverna at 7:00 PM, featuring live music. Spend the evening at a local wine bar, experiencing the local viticulture.
Safety Tips
- Keep your travel documents secure.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Avoid isolated areas at night.
- Use reputable transportation services.
- Keep emergency contacts handy.
- Drink bottled water.
- Respect local customs and dress codes.
- Keep an eye on your belongings.
- Use sunscreen and stay hydrated.
- Follow local COVID-19 guidelines.
Flights
- Airline options : British Airways, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa
- Average flight duration : 4 hours
- Estimated cost : $300 per person
Hotels
- Arkin Palm Beach Hotel
- Malama Beach Holiday Village
- Kapetanios Bay Hotel
- Golden Bay Beach Hotel
- Napa Plaza Hotel
Contacts
- Indian Embassy (Nicosia) : +357 22 351106
- Police : 112
- Ambulance : 112
- Firefighters : 112
Country
Closet Airport
- Larnaca International Airport (LCA)
Nearest City
- Nicosia
Heritage Sites
- Ancient City of Salamis
Airlines
- British Airways
- Turkish Airlines
- Lufthansa
- Ryanair
Currency
- Euro (EUR)
Languages Spoken
- Greek
- Turkish
Real Story
The Siege of Famagusta (1570-1571) is a significant historical event that left an indelible mark on the city’s history. During this period, Famagusta was the last stronghold of Venetian rule on the island of Cyprus. The Ottoman Empire, under Sultan Selim II, sought to expand its territory and viewed Cyprus as a strategic location due to its position in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The siege began in September 1570, following the capture of other key Cypriot cities by Ottoman forces. Marcantonio Bragadin, the Venetian commander, led the defense of Famagusta. Despite being vastly outnumbered, the defenders held out for nearly a year, showcasing remarkable resilience and tenacity. The city’s fortifications, designed by the Venetians, played a crucial role in withstanding the prolonged assault.
However, the conditions within the besieged city deteriorated rapidly. Supplies dwindled, and the inhabitants faced starvation and disease. Despite these hardships, the defenders continued to resist, hoping for reinforcements from Venice that never arrived. In August 1571, after months of relentless bombardment and assaults, Bragadin negotiated a surrender, securing terms that promised safe passage for the defenders and citizens.
Tragically, these terms were not honored. Upon entering the city, the Ottomans massacred many of the inhabitants and executed the Venetian officers, including Bragadin, who was brutally tortured and killed. The fall of Famagusta marked the end of Venetian rule in Cyprus and the beginning of Ottoman control, which lasted for over three centuries.
The Siege of Famagusta is remembered for the extraordinary courage displayed by its defenders and the subsequent tragic events that followed their surrender. It remains a poignant chapter in the history of Ammochostos, highlighting the city’s strategic importance and the resilience of its people.
Cuisine
The cuisine of Ammochostos is a delightful reflection of its rich cultural heritage. Traditional Cypriot dishes dominate the culinary scene, offering a blend of Greek and Turkish influences. Key highlights include:
- Meze : A variety of small dishes, similar to tapas, that include dips like tzatziki and hummus, grilled halloumi cheese, and lountza (smoked pork).
- Souvlaki : Grilled meat skewers, typically lamb or chicken, served with fresh salads and pita bread.
- Kleftiko : Slow-cooked lamb infused with garlic and herbs, often cooked in a traditional clay oven.
- Seafood : Fresh fish, octopus, and calamari are staples, especially in coastal areas.
- Baklava : A sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.
Culture and History
Ammochostos, historically known as Famagusta, is a town that captures the essence of Cypriot culture through its rich tapestry of influences, stemming from Greek, Turkish, and Venetian heritages. The town’s architecture vividly showcases this blend, with Gothic cathedrals that have been converted into mosques, reflecting the island’s historical shifts in governance and culture. The Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, once the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, stands as a testament to this cultural amalgamation, its Gothic arches juxtaposed with Islamic minarets.
The daily life in Ammochostos is steeped in traditions that have been passed down through generations. The local cuisine, for instance, is a delicious fusion of Greek and Turkish flavors, with dishes like moussaka, kebabs, and meze platters being staples at family gatherings and local tavernas. Festivals play a crucial role in the cultural calendar, with events like the Kataklysmos (Festival of the Flood) celebrated with much enthusiasm, featuring boat races, traditional music, and dance.
Cypriots are known for their warm hospitality, and this is particularly evident in Ammochostos. Visitors are often greeted with open arms and treated to the island’s famed halloumi cheese and Commandaria wine. The local markets are vibrant hubs of activity, where one can find handmade crafts, traditional lacework, and pottery, offering a glimpse into the island’s artisanal heritage.
The town’s historical sites, such as the ancient city of Salamis, provide deep insights into its storied past. Salamis, with its impressive ruins of a gymnasium, theatre, and baths, offers a tangible connection to the classical era, illustrating the importance of Ammochostos as a cultural and economic center in antiquity.