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Guide to Larnaca, Cyprus
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LarnacaWith a population of roughly 50,000, Larnaca, Cyprus is not quite great in volume, but it is quite so in treasure. Larnacas history spans centuries, all the way back to 13^th Century B.C. Back then, of course, it wasnt known as Larnaca; it was known as Kition. It was settled by the Mycaeneans, and went through Ottoman, and then British rule. For centuries it had a great influence in trade, and even though the port is overrun more so by yachts, than any other floating vessels, Larnaca is making a comeback as an influential trade hub. Many visitors glance over Larnaca and quickly leave, not taking a closer look at its charm and value. Larnaca is more than just a middle-eastern port city, it is living history.
When to go:
Larnacas climate situation is much like any other location in the middle-east, except milder. Summer days reach the mid-90s (Fahrenheit), and in winter the temperatures drop to the 60s. The only unique difference Larnaca has among the others is the fact that most of the precipitation it receives is in the winter, and the least is in the summer. Spring and autumn are both fine times to fly to Larnaca, but dont be surprised if it rains during your stay. Forget about traveling in the winter, and bring sunblock if youre planning on a summer flight.
Getting there and around:
It is wonderful to find that Larnaca International Airport is situated less than 2 miles from the city centre. This is a relief, and means transportation to your hotel will be fast and cheap. Outside the terminal there are taxis and buses waiting, and the only difference between the two is that the buses travel a set route to major hotels. If youve booked an out-of-the-way hotel, then youll probably want to take a taxi. Note: buses rarely operate during the weekends.
We like traveling Larnaca by taxi, though by foot it is the best. Of course, you wont be able to walk everywhere, and though Larnaca is a hotbed for history, the city streets are not all that exciting. A taxi will whisk you to your desired destination quickly. We would recommend a bus, if only the schedule did not hinder the city experience for ordinary travelers.
Attractions:
The District Museum is a great first stop. If you take a taxi to the city center from the airport, the museum is so close that you can walk there. The District Museum has a great number of historic items: artifacts from the Neolithic and Roman periods especially pieces from the time of Kition, and an amazing ceramic collection some of which are in miraculously good condition for their age.
If youre in for some more history, go to Ancient Kition, an area on the northeast side of the city, where a great number of ruins were excavated. There lie the remains of five temples dating back to the birth of Kition. One of the best preserved is the Phoenician Temple of Astarte, which was surprisingly built on top of the ruins of an unknown Bronze Age temple.
Larnaca is big on churches, and one of the highlights is the Church of Ayios Lazaros (St. Lazarus). It was constructed in the 9^th century, and is believed to have been built over the empty grave of St. Lazarus after his resurrection by Jesus.
Visit the Larnaca Medieval Museum, housed in the Larnaca Fort facing the seafront. It was first utilized as a prison, but now is stocked with pieces found here and around the city. The Medieval Museum operates as the citys Municipal Cultural Center in the summer.
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