Explore Larnaca AttractionsA 4000 year old city is bound to offer plenty of sightseeing and Larnaca attractions don’t disappoint! If you feel like dragging yourself away from the marina, its palm trees and your Haagen Daz ice-cream, the following places make interesting trips! KitionThe ancient city of Kition lies in the north of Larnaca. Archaeologists have yet to discover the majority of the city’s remains but there is still plenty to see, much of which dates back to the 13th century.Highlights include Phoenician temples and remnants from the Bronze Age. The site is open from 7.30am to 2.30pm on weekdays. Apart from the months of July and August, opening times on a Thursday are 3pm to 6pm. The Statue of ZenoZeno was the founder of the school of Stoicism, an ancient Greek philosophy which teaches the ability to become unresponsive to various emotions. The son of a merchant, Zeno was born in Kition and studied the teachings of other famous Greek philosophers such as Socrates.It is sometimes joked that visitors need to follow his stoic teachings when in Cyprus, in order for them not to lose patience with the island’s laid back way of life! Sadly, Zeno committed suicide aged 72, but his statue remains for all to see along Larnaca’s seafront promenade. Hala Sultan tekkeAt the southern shore of the salt lake, you can find the mosque of Hala Sultan Tekke, which is one of the most popular Larnaca attractions. The beautiful mosque, surrounded by palm trees and fountains, is an important Islamic site and many Muslims make a pilgrimage to the site each year as it the burial place of Umm Haram who is said to be an aunt of the prophet Mohammed.Another room inside the building holds the grave of Chadija, the grandmother of King Hussein of Jordan. The mosque is open every day from 8am, but closing times vary throughout the year. It is free to visit, however donations are expected.
Stavrouni MonasteryNestled on top of the mountain of the same name is this famous monastery. The name comes from the Greek words Stavros, meaning cross and Vouno meaning mountain. This literally translates to the mountain of the cross.Getting to the monastery is not for the faint hearted! Not only is it located 2192 ft above sea level, but you have to drive up a steep, winding mountain road to reach it (Cyprus mountain roads are always a little scary!). According to legend, the monastery was founded by the mother of Constantine the Great, the Empress Helena, but despite this acknowledgement women are forbidden from entering the building. Photography is also prohibited. On the same road is the Constantine and Helena chapel. You need to ask the monks for the key to this chapel if you wish to see it. The friendly monks of this monastery expertly paint religious icons which you can buy as souvenirs. It is open daily, but closes during lunchtime. Djami Kebir – the Grand MosqueThis is the mosque that you can see from Larnaca Fort. The Djami Kebir (meaning large mosque) was built in the 16th century and is still a popular place for Muslims to visit. The mosque was previously named the Latin Holy Cross Church.St Lazarus ChurchNorth of Larnaca Fort is the church of St Lazarus (Ayios Lazaros) which was built in the 9th century. It is said to hold the empty grave of Lazarus, who was resurrected by Christ before travelling to Cyprus where he became a bishop. His body is believed to have been moved to France. Visit the church’s website here.Return to Travel Larnaca from Larnaca Attractions
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