Larnaka
Larnaka is an attractive and quiet town, which has lost none of its original charm. It is the same all year round unlike many tourist areas of the island, which are extremely busy during the summer months and exceptionally quiet in the winter.
Larnaka's seafront is reminiscent of a continental promenade, with its line of mature palm trees and its languid air of sleepy charm. Cafes and tavernas line the area near the sea, making this a popular spot with visitors and Cypriots alike. Nearby is the marina, frequented by yachtsmen from all over the world and at the western end of the promenade is the town's I7th century fort.
As the home of the island's main international airport, Larnaka offers many visitors their first taste of Cyprus. One of the islands first sights is the beautiful salt lake, home in the cooler months to the colonies of graceful flamingos and other migratory birds.
The three main streets of Ermou, Zinonos Kitieos and Grigori Afxentiou Avenue are lined with shops of every type to suit tastes ranging from modest to the sophisticated.
Larnaka's District Archaeological museum and the Pierides Foundation museums exhibit particularly interesting antiquities. Also of interest are the ancient city-kingdom of the Kition, established by Mycenaean Greeks in the 13th century B.C., and the church of the Ayia Faneromeni, which is built over a rock cave dating from the 8th century B.C. The 18th century aqueduct on the outskirts of town and the church of St. Lazarus in the town centre also attracts many visitors. The open-air amphitheatre and indoor municipal theatre host many exhibitions, concerts, drama and folk festivals throughout the year. Famous singers, actors and artists from all over the world often perform here.
At a time when the world is clouded by safety consciousness, a feeling of security prevails everywhere in Larnaka with a crime level so low it is practically non-existent. Larnaka may be a small town but it has a big heart. It is a town that gives its visitors a genuine welcome and treats them as friends.
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