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 Limassol sea front © Cyprus Tourism Organisation During the Crusades Richard the Lionheart visited the Cypriot
city of Limassol (then known as Lemesos) to free his betrothed from
the Byzantine sovereign. The subsequent wedding became a party that
is legendary still today, which is probably why modern Limassol is
still a centre of nightlife and joie de vivre. This lively ambience
is also aided and abetted by the fact that Limassol is the centre
of winemaking on the island.
The city has concentrated its efforts in recent years on
mercantile development and modernising its buildings. Unlike other
Cypriot cities it has not protected its architectural or cultural
heritage, but with its many excellent hotels it does offer a good
base for visitors who can head for the hills after whooping it up
under the city's bright lights. The foothills of the Troodos
Mountains lie north of the city and offer charming country walks
that meander through friendly villages. There are also some good
beaches on the outskirts of the city, most of which belong to
hotels which charge an entrance fee for non-guests. The sandy beach
of Avmidou, located on the grounds of the British military base of
Akrotiri, is open to the public.
Attractions
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Cyprus Medieval Museum
Limassol Castle, built in the 14th century, stands sentinel
over the old harbour on the site of an earlier Byzantine castle.
Today it houses the Cyprus Medieval Museum with a host of
fascinating exhibits. The castle is renowned for being the place
where Crusader Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre,
and crowned her Queen of England in 1191.
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Address: Limassol Castle, Richard and Berengaria Street;
Telephone: 25 305 419;
Opening time: Tuesday to Saturday 9am to 5pm; Sunday 10am to 1pm;
Admission: £2
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Folk Art Museum
A collection of traditional costumes, farm and household tools
and a variety of local handicrafts are among the displays at
Limassol’s Folk Art Museum, contained in a restored house.
Authentic Cypriot handicrafts are also offered for sale.
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Address: 253 Ayios Andreas Street;
Telephone: 25 362 303;
Opening time: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 1.30pm, and 3pm to 5.30pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday (June to September 4pm to 6.30pm);
Admission: £0.50
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Pitsilia
A worthwhile day trip from Limassol is to explore the unspoilt
villages in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains, in the region
known as Pitsilia. A rental car or a hired taxi is necessary
because public transport is infrequent. Many of the villages make
their own wines, and other products such as honey and cheeses. The
picturesque houses, painted churches and red-tiled roofs are
striking, and many restored houses have been turned into cafes or
restaurants.
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Troodos Mountains
The Troodos Mountains in the interior of Cyprus north of
Limassol offer a selection of four interesting signposted summer
walks for nature lovers. The Artemis Trail is circular, extending
four miles (7km) in the Black Pine region through the distinctive
sub-alpine flora of the area. Orchids can be found under the pines,
and one may spot the rare Epipactis condensata. The Atalanta Trail,
six miles (9km) long, starts at Troodos and also offers rich plant
life, spectacular scenery and birdwatching opportunities. The
shorter and easier Caledonia Trail, covering two miles (4km),
follows the Kryo Potamo stream about one mile (2km) from Platres,
and winds through pine forest, and among plane trees. It also
bypasses the Caledonian Falls, which are the only waterfalls on
Cyprus. The Persephone Trail, named after the Greek goddess of
spring, is about two miles (3km) long and offers lovely views.
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 Planning a holiday in Cyprus? Visit Alpharooms.com for the best deals on hotels and
apartments.
 Looking for an unforgettable Cyprus holiday? Check out tour
operator thomson.co.uk today.
 Research hotels and apartments in Cyprus at Tripreport.com. Impartial hotel reviews from 1000s of
holiday makers.
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