Best Attractions in Larnaca
History buffs have much to rejoice in Larnaca’s splendid cultural and traditional attractions, dating back to the 9th century and beyond. This article will walk you through some of the best attractions in Larnaca that will charm you with their splendors.
AGIOU LAZAROU
First on our list of best attractions in Larnaca is the Main Square. Tucked away in Larnaca Main Square, Agiou Lazarou is Lazarus’s resting place, the Bishop of Kition. A splendor of historic charm and cultural remains, it was the residence of Lazarus after he rose from the dead, and when he finally passed away, he buried in this building, which is now famous as the Church of St. Lazarus.
A pinnacle of historic charm and architecture grandeur, this church was built in the 9th century on the orders of Emperor Leo VI, and it is the perfect attraction to feast on traditional gilt decorations and Baroque woodcarvings. The church is also home to some impressive paintings. These paintings including one of St. George and the Dragon, and the Virgin and the Child. A walk across the courtyard will take you to the splendid Byzantine Museum, where you can feast your eyes on an impressive display of relics and religious artifacts.
Best Attractions in Larnaca: Hala Sultan Tekke
A breathtakingly picturesque mosque surrounded by palm trees and the Larnaca Salt Lake, you have to take a three kilometer-drive towards the west of Central Larnaca to reach the Hala Sultan Tekke. This idyllic mosque has great significance amongst Muslim pilgrims as the mosque is a tribute to the wet nurse of Prophet Mohammad, Umm Haram, who is said to have passed away while traveling across this site. The mosque is home to a shrine, which was dedicated to her tomb back in AD 645, and later in 1816, the Ottomans constructed the tomb.
LARNACA FORT
This splendid Ottoman-era fort is located on the seaside Leoforos Athinon Promenade, and it will take you on a magnificent journey into medieval times. Built in 1625 by the Ottomans, the fort has a rich history, and was even turned into a prison during the colonial period of British rule. The Larnaca Fort will introduce you to a spellbinding Medieval Museum, which hosts a collection of medieval weaponry, historical artifacts and display, and a lovely group of black and white photographs.
Be sure to climb up the fort to enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. After touring the fort, you must run across the street to feast your eyes on the splendors of the Larnaca Grand Mosque, which is home to a tiny cemetery filled with old, exquisitely ornamented tombstones that garner much attention from tourists.
STAVROVOUNI MONASTERY
Finally on our list of best attractions in Larnaca is Stavrovouni Monastery. This picturesque monastery rests atop a ragged cliff-top, tucked on Larnaca’s western side, and this historical attraction is famous for its breathtaking panoramic views of the countryside. The construction of the Stavrovouni Monastery was ordered by Empress Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, and the monastery is reminiscent of the architecture of the Graeco-Roman. The temple on the summit is a tribute to honor Aphrodite here.
