Larnaca - modern seaside
Situated on the south east coast of the island, Larnaca has a population of approximately 70,000 people.
The graceful row of majestic palms lining Larnaca’s seafront is a reminder of the 17th century, when Larnaca was the diplomatic and trading capital of Cyprus. But Larnaca sits on foundations of great antiquity. It was once an important city-kingdom known as Kition, allegedly founded by Noah’s son Khittim.
Nowadays Larnaca is a thriving modern seaside town with many shops and restaurants, several museums, a large harbour, and a cosmopolitan yacht marina. The island’s main international airport is situated in Larnaca.
Originally known as Kition or Khittim, Larnaca is built on ancient sites founded by the Mycenaean Greeks in the 13th century BC. The third largest city of Cyprus, still endorses in trade in bustle of the town center and the commercial port from dual ports as in the 13th century. Dating further back, Larnaca was first settled by Noah’s grandson, Khittim, after the Deluxe and this settlement is celebrated annually on the beachfront.
The town Kition, and birthplace of stoic philosopher, Zenon, has many cultural spots. Of great interest is the church of St Lazarus. As the name suggests, it was built to enshrine the tomb of Lazarus, who, according to legend, was expelled from Bethany after his resurrection and forced onto a seaworthy boat which brought him to Kiti. Here he met with the Apostles and was consecrated a bishop and canonized. The saint's remains were discovered and removed in 890AD .
One of Larnaca's most distinctive features is the mid-town seaside promenade lined with tall palm trees and a sandy beachfront. Named Finikoudes in Greek, the promenade is paralleled with taverns and cafés, attracting families for long walks, especially on weekends. Nearby is the Larnaca marina, one of the few shelters for yachts on the island. Palm trees and minarets which dot the horizon also give Larnaca a Middle Eastern ambience, particularly in the old, inner city. At the rear of the Finikoudes promenade is the 17th century fort. Apart from being a museum, the fort also houses many musicals.
The salt lake near the international airport is also a major attraction. In the winter the lake's shallow expanse of seawater is a favorite habitat for migratory birds, especially the Pink Flamingo. In the summer months the lake dries up and salt is collected.
On the west side of the lake, resting peacefully among a copse of tall cypress trees, with its minarets reflected in the water, is the Tekke (shrine) of Hala Sultan built to honour a female relative of the Prophet Mohammed, Umm Haram, who accompanied the Arab invaders of Cyprus in 694AD, but died after falling from a mule near Larnaca. Her shrine, the third holiest in the Muslim world after Mecca and Medina, is today a wonderfully peaceful sanctuary planted with palm trees and flowering shrubs enjoyed by Cypriots and tourists alike.
But Cyprus has much more to offer. It has ancient archaeological remains, mediaeval castles and monasteries, fertile countryside, cedar forests, vineyards and mountains.
For the active, hiking, golf, diving, water sports and mountain-biking.
Nature-lovers are attracted by ideal walking countryside, bird watching and spectacular displays of spring flowers.
There is a strong sense of tradition in Cyprus. The festivals and celebrations of the Orthodox Church calendar play an important part of peoples lives. The Cypriots are proud of their cultural heritage and the island's claim to fame as the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of love and beauty.
Why invest in larnaca
Taking a more financially orientated stance, it is imperative to consider Larnaca’s investment prospects.
Larnaca is situated in a strategic position. Its residents benefit from Larnaca International Airport. Also, consider Larnaca’s close proximity to the remaining cities in Cyprus. Nicosia is only a 20-minute drive away and reaching Limmasol takes just 30 minutes driving time.
Expansion of the Larnaca marina: The takeover of the yacht marina by a private company (from the Cyprus government), which plans to invest heavily in the marina’s expansion, will result in a sharp boost in property value in Larnaca.
Closure of the Refinery - In addition, the closure of the refinery along the Larnaca-Dhekelia Road in May 2004, which has been the primary reason as to why the value of Larnaca’s property has not reached the peaks of the other Cyprus towns, will also boost property value even higher
Entry of Cyprus into the European Union is also expected to raise the value of properties.