Sightseeing in and Around the Limassol Area

Limassol is the second largest city and is situated on the South of Cyprus. It is more of a cosmopolitan city than anything else. Some holiday makers stay in big fancy hotels for a city atmosphere. Here are some sightseeing options to take part in if visiting this lovely city.

Kolossi Castle

The Medieval castle was built in thirteenth century after the Frankish Lusignan king of the time, Hugh the First, granted the area to the Knights of the Order of St John, a medieval order whose mission was to protect and provide aid to pilgrims to the Holy Land. It is well known and admired by many tourists these days and is situated just outside of Limassol in a place called Kolossi. The land surrounding the Kolossi castle was cultivated with sugarcane and vineyards and the famous Cypriot wine Commandaria was produced from this. The name 'Commandaria' originates from the headquarters of Kolossi - the 'Grand Commanderie'. The castle is a three storey single block tower. There are ruins all around it and a long ruined chapel nearby. If wanting to visit the castle you will expect to pay 1.70 euro per person to enter for any age group. The castle is opened to the public between 8 a.m. and 7.30 p.m. in high season. In lower season the castle closes at 5 p.m.

Limassol Castle/Museum

The Cyprus Medieval Museum is inside the Limassol Castle and has been since 1987. The castle was built in the nineteenth century and was said to be the place where Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre. The wedding took place in the castle chapel before Richard went onto crown Berengaria Queen of England in 1191.

Limassol castle is a short walk through Limassol in the old Port area. The views from the castle are worth seeing from the roof and the gardens are a pleasant place to sit and enjoy the feel of the place. Visit the castle anytime of the day, as it is opened to the public all year round.

Troodos Mountains

Troodos Mountains is a great place to visit in summer and winter seasons. Tourists can take a jeep safari to Troodos or even a coach trip or driving there themselves. Take a tour up to the Kykkos Monastery. This holy monastery is famous for its golden icon of the Virgin Mary which is said to be painted by St. Luke. If visiting Troodos in the winter months of January and February, then snow will be seen throughout Troodos where skiing is allowed.

Museums

In the old Port area can be found the Sea Sponges Exhibition Centre. A small place with a collection of sea sponges which are available to buy. A demonstration is given regularly at the Sea Sponges Exhibition Centre.

The Folk Art Museum is situated in Limassol. It has very interesting artifacts that gives the whole story of folk art in Limassol and the rest of Cyprus. The museum was established in 1985. It has six rooms and contains an average of 500 objects. The museum has some of the most remarkable hand-made exhibits, such as, tapestry, embroidery, wooden chests, waistcoats, men's jackets, necklaces, country tools, national and traditional costumes. This museum, also, won the Europa Nostra Award in 1989 for its excellent preservation and superb portrayal of Cypriot heritage.

There is, also, the Wine Museum. Cyprus is known for brilliant wine and is one of the first countries that has retained its own wine making process. It is worth a visit and is situated in the old Limassol to Paphos road. It can be reached by bus from the Limassol's central marketplace.

The Museum of Natural History is known for displaying stuffed animals, birds and reptiles. It is an educational centre too. The museum also provides films to watch on wild life and nature. This museum can be found inside the Limassol Zoo.

The Museum of Olive Oil is an interesting place to visit. This museum is situated on a hill just outside the village of Anogyra. It gives an informative exhibition where you can learn about the history of olive oil and even observe how it is made. There is also a gift shop inside where high grade extra virgin oil and other souvenirs can be purchased.

Zoos in Limassol

The Limassol zoo is located right on the seafront inside the municipal gardens. It is somewhere to walk to if you are sitting on the beach. There are all kinds of animals here and it is a great place to show off to the family. The entry cost is very cheap at 80 cents per person. Take a walk through this zoo in the morning when the animals are likely to be awake.

The Fasouri Watermania Waterpark

There is also a water park to enjoy in Limassol. It is the largest water park in Cyprus. This is open from May to October every year. If visiting Limassol in hot summer months, then this is a fantastic place to explore with the family.

In general, Limassol can make a great place to visit for a vacation giving lots of places of interest to see.