Arsos Village

Written by Vartholomaios on 06/04/2022. Posted in Limassol.

Arsos Village in Cyprus

Arsos Village

Limassol

The beautiful village of Arsos

Lofou Village in Cyprus

The village of Arsos is one of the biggest wine producing villages in Cyprus. It lies 40 kilometres from Limassol and 45 kilometres from Paphos It is built on the slopes of Laona mountain, 1092 metres above sea level, with an open horizon on the Valley of the Diarizos River, as far as the sea of Paphos. Thanks to this geographical position, it enjoys a wonderful cool and dry climate in summer and attracts therefore hundreds of holidaymakers.

There are two versions about its name. One says that it comes from the Holy Alsos (grove) of the goddess Aphrodite, where the village is built, and the other tells us that it was one of the 4 towns founded by Ptolemy Philadelphos in the honour of Arsinoe.

Since the most ancient times, it has developed into a big rich wine-producing village. All the inhabitants of the village make their own wine, especially red wine, and keep it in big earthenware jars. They grow mainly dark grapes, xynisteri, as well as new varieties suitable for the production of wine. The jars and the winepress for the production of the famous Arsos wine, as well as the alembics for the production of zivania can be found in most houses

From spring to autumn, the emerald colour of the vineyards dominates all around the village.

The houses in the village are close to each other. It is a classical example of a densely constructed settlement. The narrow streets, the lengthy houses (makrynaria), the spacious two-roomed houses (dichora) and the two-storied houses (anoyia), all built with impeccably hewn stones give, in combination with the tiled roofs, give a special charm to the architecture of the village. The numerous neo-classical buildings are also characteristic.

The hospitality of the inhabitants of the village, the cleanness of the houses and the streets, the wonderful picturesque yards and all the varieties of flowers and greenery are characteristic.

The housewives of the village are famous for their dexterity in preparing the different dishes such as ”palouzes”, ”epsima”, ”biscuits with episma”, ”paste”, ”shoudzioukos”, ”kiofterka”, ”arkatena”, ”kattimerka”, ” glyko ” and many others.

The village experienced an important development from 1920 to 1960. The population of the village amounted to 2.000 inhabitants. The unprofitable viticulture, the bad road network in those days and the search for a better fortune in the cities led the village to decay and abandonment. Nowadays, only around 300 people have remained in the village; they keep and transmit a tradition rich in manners and customs.

The Arsos Development Association, which was founded 17 years ago, aims at the maintenance of the manners and customs of the village, and the preservation of its architectural character together with modern development, in order to transform it into a viable place for the young. The main activities of the Association are tree-planting every January, Eastern festivities, the Cyprus night in June, the August festival, the palouze feast etc.

Folk Art Museum
Icon store room of St. Mariamnis

Folk Art Museum

The Folk Art Museum was founded in 1997 by the Community Council of Arsos and the Association for the Development of Arsos.

Icon store room of St. Mariamnis

The Icon store room of St. Mariamnis occupies one room building in the courtyard of the Apostle Philippos Church of.

Folk Art Museum

The Folk Art Museum was founded in 1997 by the Community Council of Arsos and the Association for the Development of Arsos.

Folk Art Museum

The Folk Art Museum was founded in 1997 by the Community Council of Arsos and the Association for the Development of Arsos. The Museum is housed in a restored 18th century residence, which constitutes a Table B’ Ancient Monument. The restoration works were conducted under the supervision of the Department of Antiquities. The aims that led to the creation of the Folk Art Museum were the preservation of the folkways of the community of Arsos, as well as the preservation of the rich Cultural Heritage of Krasochoria (Wine-Villages). The Museum is actually a traditional house of the area displaying its entire household equipment. At the front part of the house there is a high stony wall and the front door leads the visitor to the stony yard and the shed where several tools and materials related to vineyards and wine are displayed. These include the boiler used for the production of the alcoholic drink of ‘zivania’, the vineyard plough, corves and many other tools which are no longer used nowadays. Moving on, the visitor enters the so called ‘Palace’ which was the main multiple-usage hall for the family. The room was used as a kitchen, a dining room and a living room. Here, one can see traditional chairs, a fireplace, a barbecue grill, a cooking stove, copper domestic utensils, a dresser, a cupboard and many more pieces of household equipment. Next, there is the cellar where the traditional ‘Linos’ is preserved with the large clay jars, the presser and the other traditional winery tools. From the paved yard, a stony staircase leads visitors to two upper floor rooms. In the big room visitors can admire the traditional bed, the wardrobe where the traditional ladders are kept, the old Venetian mirror, the sofa, the console, the baby bed, the loom and the carved chest. In the inside room there is a permanent exhibition of old photos taken during past events, wedding parties, National Fights and many other activities. The Museum building is ideal for hosting various exhibitions such as painting and photography exhibitions and many other events.
Icon store room of St. Mariamnis

The Icon store room of St. Mariamnis occupies one room building in the courtyard of the Apostle Philippos Church of.

Icon store room of St. Mariamnis

The Icon store room of St. Mariamnis occupies one room building in the courtyard of the Apostle Philippos Church of. Spanning a period of about seven centuries, exhibits include pieces of an iconostasis from 1735, a pulpit and an altar of the 19th century, old icons from the 13th to the 19th centuries, holy utensils, old books from the 16th to the19th centuries, an embroidered epitaphios from the 15th/16th century and other relics.

Church Apostolou Philippou
Panayia Katholiki Chapel

Church Apostolou Philippou

The Church of Apostle Philippos is located in the heart of Arsos. It is a church which was built in the 13th century and which has been repaired several times since then.

The Church of Apostle Philippos is located in the heart of Arsos. It is a church which was built in the 13th century and which has been repaired several times since then. According to historic evidence presented by Christodoulos Hadjichristodoulou, when Gunnis and Geffery refer to the church of Apostle Philippos in the beginning of the 20th century, they note that there used to be an older church where the present church stands today and that church was destroyed during the second half of the 19th century. The present church has existed ever since the beginning of the 20th century and its dimensions are 72X47 metres. After the big earthquake of 1988, the church was severely damaged, with the built stone revealed from the inside. Due to this incident, the Department of Antiquities, which was asked to offer assistance, declared the church a Monument B’ and helped restore it. Next to the church stands the chapel of Agia Mariamni, the sister of Apostle Philippos. The construction of the bell-tower is dated back to the beginning of the 20th century, while the later addition of the church is the women’s loft. The former was constructed between the years 1912 and 1914, whereas the latter was constructed in 1948. The internal part of the church is adorned by a 19th century wooden iconostasis bearing three lines of portable icons. The first line bears the largest icons which are called ‘Despotic’. Above the Despotic icons there is a line of smaller icons depicting Saints whose name days are considered to be the twelve most important holy days of the Orthodox Church, whereas above those icons there is a line of icons called ‘Apostolikon’, which depict the 12 Apostles. High on the iconostasis one can admire the Crucifixion. Mentioned at the old church of Apostle Philippos is the Russian sightseer and monk Vasileios Barxy, who visited Arsos at the beginning of the 18th century and in particular in 1735. The latter mentions that the church of Apostle Philippos was an old stony church where the relic of the Saint was kept in the sanctuary. The reliquary of the Holy Relic of Saint Philippos was stolen shortly after 1735. Afterwards, following the instructions of the Metropolitan Bishop of Pafos, Ioakeim, the Holy Relic of the Apostle was originally transferred to the Monastery of Agios Ioannis at the location ‘Pente Litharia’, whereas later on it was taken to the Monastery of Timios Stavros in Omodos so that it could be kept and protected. Today, it is still kept at the Monastery of Timios Stavros despite long efforts made by the residents of Arsos for the return of the reliquary and the Holy Relic of the Apostle back to his Church in Arsos. However, it must be noted that the stolen reliquary was replaced around 1770 following instructions given by Metropolitan Bishop Panaretos. The Holy Relic, as Hadjichristodoulou remarks, was destructive for locust. Hence, during locust raids, the residents would perform litanies at the distressed areas in order to protect their harvest. The relic of Apostle Philippos was probably transferred to Cyprus during the Frankish Period. The transfer of the relic is celebrated by the Church of Cyprus with a special mass on the 31st of July. When the holy relic of the Saint arrived in Cyprus, it was kept in various areas of Pafos. However, for safety reasons, the relic was transferred towards the inland and more specifically to Arsos, where an imposing church was built to honour the Saint. The church’s inauguration ceremony was performed by the Latin land owner of the area named Jernizos. Kept at the imposing stony church of the Apostle is the icon of Saint Philippos, the dimensions of which are 150X108X55 cm, which was painted around the first half of the 13th century. Depicted on a slightly elevated frame surrounding the icon are 18 scenes from the life of the Saint accompanied by inscriptions. The name day of Apostle Philippos, the Protector Saint of our community, is celebrated on the 14th of November. A fair takes place at the square of the village, where street vendors set their stands and sell their products to both the villagers and the worshippers who come from all over Cyprus to worship the miracle-making icons of Apostle Philippos.

Panayia Katholiki Chapel

In the village, there is also a second small medieval church, dedicated to Panayia Chryseleousa of the Catholics. In the ancient times it was a Latin Monastery.

Church Apostolou Philippou

The Church of Apostle Philippos is located in the heart of Arsos. It is a church which was built in the 13th century and which has been repaired several times since then.

Church Apostolou Philippou

The Church of Apostle Philippos is located in the heart of Arsos. It is a church which was built in the 13th century and which has been repaired several times since then. According to historic evidence presented by Christodoulos Hadjichristodoulou, when Gunnis and Geffery refer to the church of Apostle Philippos in the beginning of the 20th century, they note that there used to be an older church where the present church stands today and that church was destroyed during the second half of the 19th century. The present church has existed ever since the beginning of the 20th century and its dimensions are 72X47 metres. After the big earthquake of 1988, the church was severely damaged, with the built stone revealed from the inside. Due to this incident, the Department of Antiquities, which was asked to offer assistance, declared the church a Monument B’ and helped restore it. Next to the church stands the chapel of Agia Mariamni, the sister of Apostle Philippos. The construction of the bell-tower is dated back to the beginning of the 20th century, while the later addition of the church is the women’s loft. The former was constructed between the years 1912 and 1914, whereas the latter was constructed in 1948. The internal part of the church is adorned by a 19th century wooden iconostasis bearing three lines of portable icons. The first line bears the largest icons which are called ‘Despotic’. Above the Despotic icons there is a line of smaller icons depicting Saints whose name days are considered to be the twelve most important holy days of the Orthodox Church, whereas above those icons there is a line of icons called ‘Apostolikon’, which depict the 12 Apostles. High on the iconostasis one can admire the Crucifixion. Mentioned at the old church of Apostle Philippos is the Russian sightseer and monk Vasileios Barxy, who visited Arsos at the beginning of the 18th century and in particular in 1735. The latter mentions that the church of Apostle Philippos was an old stony church where the relic of the Saint was kept in the sanctuary. The reliquary of the Holy Relic of Saint Philippos was stolen shortly after 1735. Afterwards, following the instructions of the Metropolitan Bishop of Pafos, Ioakeim, the Holy Relic of the Apostle was originally transferred to the Monastery of Agios Ioannis at the location ‘Pente Litharia’, whereas later on it was taken to the Monastery of Timios Stavros in Omodos so that it could be kept and protected. Today, it is still kept at the Monastery of Timios Stavros despite long efforts made by the residents of Arsos for the return of the reliquary and the Holy Relic of the Apostle back to his Church in Arsos. However, it must be noted that the stolen reliquary was replaced around 1770 following instructions given by Metropolitan Bishop Panaretos. The Holy Relic, as Hadjichristodoulou remarks, was destructive for locust. Hence, during locust raids, the residents would perform litanies at the distressed areas in order to protect their harvest. The relic of Apostle Philippos was probably transferred to Cyprus during the Frankish Period. The transfer of the relic is celebrated by the Church of Cyprus with a special mass on the 31st of July. When the holy relic of the Saint arrived in Cyprus, it was kept in various areas of Pafos. However, for safety reasons, the relic was transferred towards the inland and more specifically to Arsos, where an imposing church was built to honour the Saint. The church’s inauguration ceremony was performed by the Latin land owner of the area named Jernizos. Kept at the imposing stony church of the Apostle is the icon of Saint Philippos, the dimensions of which are 150X108X55 cm, which was painted around the first half of the 13th century. Depicted on a slightly elevated frame surrounding the icon are 18 scenes from the life of the Saint accompanied by inscriptions. The name day of Apostle Philippos, the Protector Saint of our community, is celebrated on the 14th of November. A fair takes place at the square of the village, where street vendors set their stands and sell their products to both the villagers and the worshippers who come from all over Cyprus to worship the miracle-making icons of Apostle Philippos.
Panayia Katholiki Chapel

In the village, there is also a second small medieval church, dedicated to Panayia Chryseleousa of the Catholics. In the ancient times it was a Latin Monastery.

Activities
and Attractions

Cyprus’s agrotourism offers a variety of places to visit. Places, both familiar and unfamiliar, that will soothe you and provide you with utter serenity and beauty. From Arsos to other villages, one can escape and experience a lovely and easygoing atmosphere.

Village Square in Cyprus

Village Square

The Six Fountains in Cyprus

The Six Fountains

Nature Trail

Arsos Nature Trail

On the western fringes of the village of Arsos, on a relatively steep slope, there is a narrow valley with a stream in which plentiful water runs all the year round, and which is a tributary of Diarizos. In older times, when the village used to throb with life (until the 1960’s) this river watered the small orchards of the inhabitants of the village. Along the river, tens of basket makers used to dig ”kolymbous” (smalls dams) for the ”liathkia” (reeds) they used for making the baskets. With the rural exodus, only a few orchards are maintained and wild vegetation (especially brambles) has covered its riverbed. It has a rich flora, such as plane trees, willows, poplars, walnut-trees, and willows (41 species in total). As regards the fauna, soft water crabs, frogs, foxes etc., endemic and migratory birds, rare species of butterflies and insects have been preserved. Along the river and at a distance of about 800 meters, six medieval fountains are built. These fountains played an important role for the inhabitants of the village at times when there was no running water in the houses. They were a source of life for water supply and irrigation purposes. Even at times of high draught, plentiful water run from it. References to the big draughts of the 19th century talk about shepherds who brought their flocks to the area from remote villages to save them from the water famine. The Development Association and the Arsos Community Council with the help of the Cyprus Tourism Organisation and the Forest Department, have cleaned the riverbed and built a pathway that links the six fountains. Furthermore, they have enhanced the sites of the ”Ossa Arkadji” and ” Pano Vrissi” fountains. The ” To Poullin” fountain will also be enhanced soon. The extension of the pathway until the Trozena wooden bridge, at a distance of 2 kilometres, is also under study. It is a unique biotope both as regards the natural beauty (dams, waterfalls, springs) and the fauna and flora.
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Architecture & Village Alleys

Architecture & Village Alleys

The houses in the village are close to each other. It is a classical example of a densely constructed settlement. The narrow streets, the lengthy houses (makrynaria), the spacious two-roomed houses (dichora) and the two-storied houses (anoyia), all built with impeccably hewn stones give, in combination with the tiled roofs, give a special charm to the architecture of the village. The numerous neo-classical buildings are also characteristic. The hospitality of the inhabitants of the village, the cleanness of the houses and the streets, the wonderful picturesque yards and all the varieties of flowers and greenery are characteristic.

Functions and Festivals in Cyprus

Functions and Festivals

Vineyards

Vineyards

The sun-kissed southern slopes of the Troodos mountains above Lemesos (Limassol) are known as the ‘Krassochoria’ and are renowned for their vineyards and delightful hillside villages. In Arsos village the wine production is still the main occupation for most of the inhabitants. This is the area which produces the island’s famous dry red wine. A number of small wineries welcome visitors on wine tasting tours. The area is reached from the Lemesos (Limassol) – Pafos road, turning right after Erimi village or from the Lemesos (Limassol) – Platres road. Take a tour of the wineries and in some wine-tasting, or sample other grape-based delicacies.
Heroes Monument

Heroes Monument

A Monument dedicated to the People of Arsos who volunteered for the National Fights was erected on the eastern edge of Arsos. The Monument was constructed using funds of the Republic of Cyprus and the Community Council of Arsos. The unveiling ceremony was held on Saturday 19th, 2010 by the Honourable Minister of Defense Mr. Costas Papacostas. The Monument was erected in honour of the following Volunteers from the Community of Arsos: Avgoustis Loizou – Balkan Wars (1912-13) Siarpellis Pagkalos – World War I (1914-19) Leonidas Economides – World War I (1914-19) Andreas Savianos – World War I (1914-19) Nicolas Constantinou – World War II (1940-45) Kyriacos Markantonis- World War I (1940-45) Michalis Koukkis- National Liberating Fight (1955-59) Andreas Stivaros- Turkish Invasion (1974) Lefteris Theodosiou – Turkish Invasion (1974)

Traditional Products in Cyprus

Traditional Products

Centre of Traditional Flavours and an Information Technology Centre of Krasochoria (Wine Villages). in Cyprus

Information Technology Centre of Krasochoria (Wine Villages)

Kallena Arsos Botanic Garden & Branch in Cyprus

Kallena Arsos Botanic Garden & Branch

All Accommodation

Cornaro House
Magdalous House
Arsorama Village Homes
Fotini’s House
Kantara House
Arsos Nest
Arsos Village Apartment

The best Restaurants in the Village of Arsos

Arsos Restaurant Snack Cafe

Arsos Restaurant Snack Cafe

TIME
09:00 am – 00:00 pm FOR RESERVATIONS
Tel: +357 99 277277
Agora

Agora

TIME
11:00 am – 22:00 pm

LOVE & EXPLORE ARSOS VILLAGE

The countryside in Cyprus is blessed with natural and man-made beauty with an abundant historical heritage. Its beautifully unique natural environment is complemented by its traditional villages and architecture which lend it a special character and are always welcoming of visitors in the traditional warm and hospitable Cypriot way.

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Platres Village

Written by Vartholomaios on 04/04/2022. Posted in Limassol.

Platres Village in Cyprus

Platres Village

Limassol

PLATRES WEATHER

The beautiful village of Platres

Lofou Village in Cyprus

Today the village is well known as Platres, without the prefix “Pano” (Upper) preceding it, in contrast to the neighbouring village Tornarides as is referred to “Kato Platres” (Lower). It’s a misperception that Platres is a quite new village founded during the recent years. Platres is a very old village and is mentioned among the 119 villages of the Limassol district that existed during the Lusignan (Frank Rule, 1192-1489 AD) and the Venetian Era (1489-1571 AD).

There are three versions regarding the etymology of Platres village naming:

1. That Platra -in plural Platres -took its name from the word “platra” (pratria) which means the one that weaves and sells sheets used by the farmers.

2. There are written reports of Platres being a feud during the Frank Rule and has had that name ever since. In the French language there is the word “platre-s”, which in Greek translates to “white”, “plaster’, and other words. There’s information that during the Frank Rule, on the South side of Troodos and above modern-day Platres, there was a Frank Monastery, its monks dressed in white and called by the name of “Platrai”.

3. The village took its name from the word “platsa”, which then became “Platra” and then “Platres” (in plural). Population.

The village has had great fluctuations of population. In 1881 the village had 100 inhabitants, in 1901 the population increased to 154, in 1931 to 396, in 1946 to 502, in 1960 it decreased to 413, and in 1982 it increased to 442. Today Platres has 250 permanent inhabitants. During summer time and especially during August, that number rises up to 10,000.

Most of the inhabitants of the village are occupied in the tourism industry (hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs); a few are occupied with fruit cultivation and some others in services that have their establishments in the village.

Location

Platres can be found in the district of Limassol and is 25 kilometres north-west of city of Limassol. It’s also 45 kilometres south-west of the capital Nicosia and 5 kilometres from Troodos square.

Altitude

The village is built amphitheatrically with a variation in low and high altitude in certain parts of the village. An average altitude of Platres is around1200 meters.

Climate

The altitude and location of the Village are ideal. Platres climate is perfect. During summer time the climate is dry, with little or no humidity with the temperatures well below average of those on other areas on the island.

Rainfall

Rainfall in Platres is one of the highest in Cyprus and the proof is dense forest and lush vegetation surrounding the village.

Temperature

The temperature all the year round and is ideal. During summer time the climate is dry, with little or no humidity with the temperatures well below average of those on other areas on the island.

Police Station
Traditional Buildings

Traditional Buildings

Police Station

Platres Police Station building. Built by the British and situated near Platres village square.

Platres Hospital (Rural Health Center)

Originally the building was used as a Gymnasium, now it serves on a Rural Health Centre for the Troodos area. It is located south of Platres near Faneromeni Church.

Police Station

Police Station

Platres Police Station building. Built by the British and situated near Platres village square.

Platres Hospital (Rural Health Center)

Originally the building was used as a Gymnasium, now it serves on a Rural Health Centre for the Troodos area. It is located south of Platres near Faneromeni Church.

Traditional Buildings

Police Station

Platres Police Station building. Built by the British and situated near Platres village square.

Platres Hospital (Rural Health Center)

Originally the building was used as a Gymnasium, now it serves on a Rural Health Centre for the Troodos area. It is located south of Platres near Faneromeni Church.

Community Council Offices Platres

The offices of the Platres Community Council are housed in an old two-storey building in front of the “Giorgos Seferis Hall”. There a re shops on the ground floor and on the 1st floor are the offices of the Council.

The old building of the Electricity Authority

The offices of the Electricity Authority are located next to the community council building. Built out of local stone around 1930 the building in currently in a very good condition and is used on the local offices of the Electricity Authority.
Traditional Buildings

Panayia Faneromenis Holy Church
Panayia Iamatiki Chapel (Samatziotissas)

Panayia Faneromenis Holy Church

The first church of Platres was the chapel of “Panagias Faneromenis”, situated between Platres and Kato Platres. In 1880 a more recent church, carrying the same name, was built closer to Platres.

Panayia Iamatiki Chapel (Samatziotissas)

Building of the chapel started during 1940 on the ruins of an old church and completed on 1975.

Panayia Faneromenis Holy Church

The first church of Platres was the chapel of “Panagias Faneromenis”, situated between Platres and Kato Platres. In 1880 a more recent church, carrying the same name, was built closer to Platres.

Panayia Faneromenis Holy Church

The first church of Platres was the chapel of “Panagias Faneromenis”, situated between Platres and Kato Platres. In 1880 a more recent church, carrying the same name, was built closer to Platres.

Later on, the church was demolished and a new, bigger, more majestic church was built at the same place funded by Mr. Frixos I. Demetriou.

The inauguration of the new church occurred in 1973. It is an architecturally and aesthetically beautiful Church, a jewel and a monument of the community and it’s worth seeing by the visitors of Platres.
Panayia Iamatiki Chapel (Samatziotissas)

Building of the chapel started during 1940 on the ruins of an old church and completed on 1975.

Panayia Iamatiki Chapel (Samatziotissas)

Building of the chapel started during 1940 on the ruins of an old church and completed on 1975.

The chapel is dedicated to Panayia Iamatiki (the One that heals) but the name that prevailed is chapel of Panayia Samatziotissa since is build within the region Samatzia close to Forest Park Hotel.

A liturgy takes place at the chapel twice a year, on the Tuesday of Easter Week and on the 31st of August.

Activities
and Attractions

Cyprus’s agrotourism offers a variety of places to visit. Places, both familiar and unfamiliar, that will soothe you and provide you with utter serenity and beauty. From Platres to other villages, one can escape and experience a lovely and easygoing atmosphere.

Giorgos Seferis Hall in Cyprus

Giorgos Seferis Hall

Kalidonia Waterfall in Cyprus

Kalidonia Waterfall

Millomeris Waterfall

Millomeris Waterfall

Millomeris waterfall is located in the south-eastern region of Platres one kilometer away from the starting point of the nature trail that leads to the Waterfall.

Water falls from a height of 15 meters and Millomeris is among the highest natural Waterfalls of the island. Millomeris was not well known until the recent years, since its location was not accessible. Among the works carried out from the community council (roadways and nature trail) Millomeris Waterfalls attracts many visitors and tourists with its natural beauty.
The fountain of Roxanne Koudounaris

The fountain of Roxanne Koudounaris

It is a beautiful monument, with very nice architecture, built with marble and local stone. Constructed in 1936 and located in Caledonia Street opposite of the Valley of Hariton.

Platres Heroes Monuments in Cyprus

Platres Heroes Monuments

Nature Trails

Nature Trails

Kalidonia Nature Trail

Starting point: About 700m from the road between Troodos and Platres near the President’s summer residence. Also accessible via a forest road which begins at the tourist road 2 kms from the Square.

oints of interest: The trail follows a course along Kryos Potamos river, which never runs dry. It passes the Kalidonia Falls and ends at Psilo Dendro, in Pano Platres.

Psilo Dendro – Pouziaris Nature Trail

Starting point: The junction of the Platres – Mesa Potamos forest road and the Moniatis – Platres – Troodos road near Psilo Dendro. Three different routes start from the above point. The first route is circular. It passes through dense thickets of Pine to Pouziaris peak, from there to Kaminouthkia stream, then to Vryses and back to the starting point at Psilo Dendro. Length: 8 kms Time: 3 hours The second route is an uphill walk towards Pouziaris and ends at a point of the Troodos Square – Makria Kontarka (Persephone) Trail (I) via which one can go to Troodos Square (II). Length: (I) 7 kms Time: (I) 3 hours Length: (II) 9.5 kms Time: (II) 4 hours The third route initially follows the same course as the previous route, up towards Pouziaris, but then takes a secondary forest road to Kryos Potamos at the starting point of the Kalidonia trail. Length: (I) Psilo Dendro – Kryos Potamos 5 kms Time: (I) 2 hours Length: (II) Psilo Dendro – Kryos Potamos – Kalidonia Falls – Psilo Dendro 8 kms Time: (II) 3 hours.

Point of interest: For the first kilometer it passes through dense pine thickets (Pinus brutia) changing to black pine (Pinus nigra ssp. pallasiana), after 3 km. Panoramic views.

In many cases, there are signposts in place, to indicate the starting point of the trail, as well as flora and geology features along the route.

Although walking in Cyprus can be enjoyed throughout the year, the recommended seasons are during late Autumn (November) and spring, when the Cyprus rural and forest areas are at full bloom.
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Troodos Cycling Routes

Troodos Cycling Routes

Enjoy the natural beauty of Cyprus through the cycling Routes of Troodos. At an altitude of one thousand meters above the sea, in ideal weather conditions, through a cycling routes network of 57 kilometers in length which the height difference does not exceed the 400 meters, the cyclist can cross cyclically throughout the Troodos mountain range.

Stelios Mavros Park in Cyprus

Stelios Mavros Park

Krios River in Cyprus

Krios River

Flora and Fauna in Cyprus

Flora and Fauna

Psilodentro Area

Psilodentro Area

It is one of the most famous and beautiful areas of Platres. Located in the north part of Village next to Krios river at high altitude and is famous for its special, cool refreshing climate.

At Pslilodentro area there is a restaurant and cafe as well as a trout fishery, an attraction for local and tourist’s visitors of Platres.
Ayia Irini Area

Ayia Irini Area

Located in the northeast of the village on the road leading from Mesa potamos to Psilodentro Area. From the rock of Ayia Irini hills you can see Platres village and enjoy the outstanding natural beauty.

Athletic Sports Center in Cyprus

Athletic Sports Center

Milia Bridge

Milia Bridge

MIlia Bridge is one of the old surviving landmarks that still stand intact. It’s situated just below the village inside the forest. It provided a crossing point over Krios Potamos.
Picnic & Camping Sites

Picnic & Camping Sites

If you’re an outdoor lover, then you probably like camping. It’s the best way to experience the great outdoors. In the area there is one camping site (Troodos camping) and seven picnic sites:

1. (Kampos tou Livadiou picnic site)

2. ( Pashia Livadi A & B picnic sites)

3. ( Almyrolivado A, B, C & D picnic sites)

Chocolate Workshop in Cyprus

Chocolate Workshop

All Accommodation

Forest Park Hotel
New Helvetia Hotel
Petit Palais Platres Hotel
P.S.N. Platres
Platres Valley Houses
Pinecone Platres – 3 Units
Cozy mountain apartment
Platres Forest View Cottage
POED Residences
Feels like home Platres
Villa Efrosyni by AgroHolidays
Kallithea INN
Villa Elisabeth by AgroHolidays
Persephone Cottage by AgroHolidays
Semiramis Lodge

The best Restaurants in the Village of Platres

The Village Restaurant (Tavern)

The Village Restaurant (Tavern)

TIME
12:00 am – 16:00 pm FOR RESERVATIONS
Tel: +357 99 663772
John’s Restaurant

John’s Restaurant

TIME
12:00 am – 00:00 pm FOR RESERVATIONS
Tel: +357 25 421840
Skylight

Skylight

TIME
09:00 am – 23:00 pm FOR RESERVATIONS
Tel: +357 25422244
Kaledonia Rotis Taverna

Kaledonia Rotis Taverna

The Coffee Shop and Roof Terrace provide an additional venue with a breathtaking view across Cyprus towards the Salt Lake at Akrotiri. While away the afternoon with a coffee, an ice cream or delicious dessert.The Wine Cellar offers a vast selection of local produce with an opportunity to sample many of the tastes of traditional Cyprus.

Don’t forget to taste our refreshing juices of our own production (e.g. orange, pomegranate, etc).

TIME
12:00 am – 17:00 pm FOR RESERVATIONS
Tel: +357 25 421019

LOVE & EXPLORE PLATRES VILLAGE

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Lofou Village

Written by Vartholomaios on 04/04/2022. Posted in Limassol.

Lofou Village in Cyprus

Lofou Village

Limassol

LOFOU WEATHER

The beautiful village of Lofou

Lofou Village in Cyprus

The village of Lofou is in the district of the ‘ampelochoria’ between Limassol and Paphos, about 26 kilometers northwest of the city of Limassol.

Lofou is built in a circular pattern on hills, at an altitude of 780 meters and has a total of about 650 centimeters in annual rainfall. It is surrounded by mountains with narrow and steep versants. The landscape is divided by two rivers that are canals of ‘Kryos’ and ‘Kouris’, which both come from the river ‘Kouris’.

Lofou is connected with nearby villages by asphalted lanes. It is connected with ‘Pera Pedi’ village in the north (at a distance of 6.5 km) and from the southwest with ‘Saint Therapon’ village (at a distance of 4.5 km). In the southeast it used to be connected with ‘Alassa’ village. The whole village was reconstructed in another location as it was flooded by ‘Kouris’ weir. From the east side, Lofou is connected with the villages of ‘Sylikou’, ‘Monagri’ and ‘Doros’.

Today, it takes about 25 minutes to reach the village for someone setting out from Limassol. Driving up the main road that leads to Platres and making a left turn after Alassa village (current position), the visitor may be able to reach the village within 15 minutes.

The village is built on a hill between mountains and gets its name based on this fact. The name Lofou was inspired by the Greek word ‘lofos’ which means ‘hill’. The original name of the village was “Lofos” since the early 20th century. Simos Menandros (1970) supports that the renaming of the village from “Lofos” to “Lofou” may be attributed to a linguistic change in the everyday language of local farmers. Therefore, ‘Lofou’ ended up having a female gender because of a linguistic change in morphology. ‘Lofou’ is the name by which the village is nowadays widely known and referred to. There are no historical findings that may help us define the exact date on which ‘Lofou’ was founded. The area must have been inhabited since the Bronze Age. This fact may be verified by the various archeological findings, particularly by the ancient pots that they were scattered around the area of the village.

The dominant view regards that the village must have been founded some years before Cyprus was occupied by the Franks in the late 12th century. During that time and because of the Arab raids, the locals were forced to abandon the coasts and move to the inner parts of the island in order to find refuge. The location of the village was truly ideal for their needs since it is hidden in the mountains and, as a consequence, it provided a sense of security.

The first written evidence of the village’s existence dates back to the Frankish times of Cyprus. According to a medieval handwritten document by Leontios Machairas, Lofou along with other villages was handed over by King Jacob I (1382-1398) who ruled Cyprus, to his brother Janot de Luzinian, Lord of Beirut. According to a Venetian handwritten script provided by Mas Latri (1861) and which dates back to the late 15th century, Lofou was included in the list of villages that were considered property of the king of Cyprus. Mas Latri refers to the village using the name ‘Lofou’.

There are historical records which report that shepherds who inhabited the area of ‘Finika’ used to herd their flocks at a distance that reached the present location of the village. They also used to overnight in a cave near the village that still exists today. The first houses in Lofou were actually farms scattered around the valley of the village. The shepherds gradually built huts which they called “stiathkia’ and at a later stage they built houses using stones whose roofs were made of wood and mud or clay (Porakos, 2004).

During the Ottoman rule, the village belonged to the ‘kaza of Koilani’ and it was registered under the name “Lofos” (Papadopoulos, 1965). In 1832, according to T. Papadopoulos (1965, p. 208) Lofou had only Greek Cypriot residents. Mas Latri also mentions that according to the census that was carried out in 1862, the village exceeded the 200 inhabitants. Towards the end of the Ottoman rule two notable events occurred: the construction of the church of Lofou the beginning of an organized form of primary school in 1855.

Lofou was transformed into an enormous vineyard during the period of British rule. The continuous planting of vines changed the entirely the view of the village. The sight was majestic when the vines were blossoming amongst the beautifully constructed and well preserved terraces. The locals were also engaged in cultivating cereals and locust trees.

In the following decade, Lofou and Cyprus in general, underwent a severe economical and political crisis. At this period, the daily life of farmers became really difficult and for some it was almost unbearable. Residents were forced to sell their properties at ridiculously low prices, since they were no longer able to borrow money. In the same period, there was also an intensified political situation at Lofou and in Cyprus in general. The expectations of Cypriots for unification with Greece were not fulfilled. The British Government denied their request and this caused a general disappointment to the public and sharpened the political passions.

Regarding the relation between Ypsonas and Lofou, it is widespread perception that the village of Ypsonas, one of the largest villages in Limassol district, was founded in the 19th century by the inhabitants of Lofou. However, this assumption is not true. What can be said is that Ypsonas already existed as a settlement since the medieval times and in modern times it was inhabited by the people of Lofou around 1770. Until the early years of the 20th century, the residents of Ypsonas were very few. Gradually, more and more farmers from Lofou started moving permanently to Ypsonas. During the British rule in Cyprus, it was noted steady population decline of Lofou for the benefit of Ypsonas. After First World War and especially after Second World War, there was an impressive increase in the population of Ypsonas accompanied by a dramatic decrease in the population of Lofou.

The years of the Cyprus Republic confirm that the population increase of Ypsonas and the population decline of Lofou are two final events. The period 1946 – 1986 may be characterized as a ‘blessing and a curse’ for Lofou. “Curse” because the village was abandoned by its inhabitants and vibrancy was lost from the daily routine of the remaining residents. That period was also a ‘blessing’ for the village because, in general, it remained intact, without any substantial alternations in the architecture of the houses; as a unique example of a traditional Cypriot village in the countryside. A legacy of fine traditional architecture that we may today admire.

In 1987 the founding of Lofou Association launches the aforementioned spirit which is till today prominent in the village. Simultaneously, Lofou Association intends to develop and tighten the bonds of friendship, brotherhood, cooperation and mutual understanding of all Lofitians as well as the friends of Lofou.

Perhaps the most important fact for the village is the effort to restore and preserve private and public buildings in the village. Within the context of a larger project for the restoration of the entire village, the Department of Urban Planning encourages the restoration of houses and provides financial help to the owners. A special zone has been defined that virtually includes the entire old village where the houses have to be preserved or be constructed according to specific instructions.

Today the restored houses of the village with their beautiful wooden balconies, the narrow cobblestone streets, the neoclassical school, the magnificent church, the traditional olive and flour mill in the rural museum, the taps and cisterns and numerous other small beautiful details that constitute the village attract the visitor and each one of us. There is massive human presence in the village during special events like the ‘Palouze Festival’ every last Sunday of September, the commemoration of the hero of Lofou ‘Ioannis Stavrianos’ and the 25th March feast of the Virgin Mary. Lastly, the two traditional taverns of the village and the newly built hotel along with other constructions that exemplify traditional architecture may offer moments of traditional Cypriot hospitality to every visitor.

Folk Art Museum
Olive press Museum

Folk Art Museum

The Folkloric Museum in Lofou is a private collection of Mr. Petros, a Cypriot who loves his country, culture and tradition.

Olive press Museum

The Olive Oil Press is located northeast of the church of the village and at a distance of approximately 300 metres. It was manufactured in Lemesos in around the end of the 19th century at “I. Kyriakides & Co Engineering workshop and Foundry”.

Folk Art Museum

The Folkloric Museum in Lofou is a private collection of Mr. Petros, a Cypriot who loves his country, culture and tradition.

Folk Art Museum

The Folkloric Museum in Lofou is a private collection of Mr. Petros, a Cypriot who loves his country, culture and tradition. All these items, were collected with much patience and obstinacy. A small but interesting at the same time museum, that you should visit.
Olive press Museum

The Olive Oil Press is located northeast of the church of the village and at a distance of approximately 300 metres. It was manufactured in Lemesos in around the end of the 19th century at “I. Kyriakides & Co Engineering workshop and Foundry”.

Olive press Museum

The Olive Oil Press is located northeast of the church of the village and at a distance of approximately 300 metres. It was manufactured in Lemesos in around the end of the 19th century at “I. Kyriakides & Co Engineering workshop and Foundry”. The word “LEMISSOS” is inscribed with upper case letters on the press.

The building is a rectangular stony construction which consists of two rooms. The first room contained all the means necessary for the production of olive-oil (e.g. the press), while the second room was used as a storage room.

Nowadays, various objects from the olive oil press are still preserved. The stony mill is of course preserved, as well as the millstone, the iron presser and some storage utensils. On the corner of the olive oil press one can admire the “niskia”, which was used to boil water. The pole which was used to push the millstone so that it could crush the olives is also salvaged today.

The olive oil press area has already been restored after efforts were made by the previous Community Council. According to the current Community Council’s short-term plan, the olive oil press will be electrified, while a long-term plan aims at placing all the utensils that were used for the production in one room and place the flourmill, another important piece of machinery from the previous century, into the second room.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that the olive oil press is still owned by the church of Lofou. The reason for that is that the church bought the olive oil press and the olive mill because it used to own a lot of olive trees. The people who took their olives there used to pay the church of Lofou either by using some of their product or in cash.

Panagia Chrysolofitissa Church
Agios Georgios Chapel

Panagia Chrysolofitissa Church

Standing on a hill west of Lofou is the main church of the village which is dedicated to the Annunciation of Virgin Mary. The church was constructed in the 19th century.

Agios Georgios Chapel

The Chapel of Agios Georgios is built west of the village, near the centre of the village. It is a well preserved chapel which was renovated in the year 2000.

Panagia Chrysolofitissa Church

Standing on a hill west of Lofou is the main church of the village which is dedicated to the Annunciation of Virgin Mary. The church was constructed in the 19th century.

Panagia Chrysolofitissa Church

Standing on a hill west of Lofou is the main church of the village which is dedicated to the Annunciation of Virgin Mary. The church was constructed in the 19th century. More specifically, the construction of the central building of the church began in 1854 and was completed in 1872. It is a single-roomed church bearing features of gothic art and mainly on its roof. Its floor is covered with small square mosaic marbles with dimensions 20×20. The church is 30.5 metres long and 13 metres and 30 centimetres wide.

The interior of the church is adorned by exquisite hagiographies, an imposing chancel, the despotic throne, the pulpit and the wooden faldstool.

In the church there are old icons of Virgin Mary, one dated back to the 11th century which is located inside the Holy Bema and a second one which, according to Gunnis, is dated back to the 16th century.

Externally, the church is adorned by two bell towers made of stone which were completed at the beginning of the 20th century and more specifically in 1910.
Agios Georgios Chapel

The Chapel of Agios Georgios is built west of the village, near the centre of the village. It is a well preserved chapel which was renovated in the year 2000.

Agios Georgios Chapel

The Chapel of Agios Georgios is built west of the village, near the centre of the village. It is a well preserved chapel which was renovated in the year 2000. The internal part of the chapel is adorned by a large icon of Agios Georgios which was painted by the monks of Mount Athos Kyrillos and Nimfonas. Located next to the church is a large water basin, as well as a cemetery with carven stony graves. What is also worth mentioning is that some of the graves have been classified as Type B Monuments./p>

Activities
and Attractions

Cyprus’s agrotourism offers a variety of places to visit. Places, both familiar and unfamiliar, that will soothe you and provide you with utter serenity and beauty. From Lofou to other villages, one can escape and experience a lovely and easygoing atmosphere.

Lofou Walking Trail in Cyprus

Lofou Walking Trail

Vineyards in Cyprus

Vineyards

The Faucet of Elitzi

The Faucet of Elitzi

The ‘faucet of Elitji’ is located approximately one kilometre northeast of Lofou half way towarch Sylikou. The faucet owes its name to the homonymous region. The source that was supplying water the faucet is at the base of a steep mountain. The people of Lofou built a large tank of water in front of the source. The tank is decorated beautifully with big windows, from which the residents of Lofou were getting water. The whole project regarding the construction of the building was completed in 1842. The faucet served the water needs of Lofou residents until 1953, the year in which the British concreted faucets in various parts of the village.

Today visitors may go to the ‘faucet of Elitji’ either from the dirt road Lofou – Sylikou, or the walking trail that has been created recently by Lofou Community Council. It is also worth noting that Lofou Community Council has recently constructed a nice patio in front of the ‘faucet of Elitji’, so as to serve the people who visit the faucet and those who enjoy the walking trail.
Palouzes Festival

Palouzes Festival

The Community Council and the Lofou Association of expatriates organizes every year in September, the Palouze Festival in the courtyard of the elementary school.

The aim of the festival is firstly the promotion of Cypriot rural heritage and rural revitalization and other community support.

The visitors can taste Palouze for free. At the festival you can also see folk craftsmen, potters, woodcarvers, exhibiting their traditional creations. For the children there is a work corner which provides special moments and the opportunity to ride on donkeys.

Palouzes (Grape Must Dessert)

This is a classic Cypriot dessert of grape must thickened with flour.Traditionally this is made during September and October using the must (pressed grape juice) from the grape harvest.

Guest House in Cyprus

Guest House

Agioi Pateres Cave

Agioi Pateres Cave

The chapel of the Holy Fathers in Lofou was built with the initiative of both the Lofou Community Council and the Lofou Ecclesiastical Committee. It is a very small building, measuring just four square meters, and is located northwest of the village, less than a kilometer from the traditional core of Lofou.

In the area where the chapel now stands, was the cave of the Holy Fathers. Pottery and human bones were found inside the cave during the construction of the chapel. In this cave existed for decades a candle, which was lit systematically by the villagers of Lofou.

Although small, the chapel of Holy Fathers is filled with icons of Saints and Fathers of the Orthodox religion. The icons were donated to the chapel by many devoted people of Lofou. The many icons in such a small space create a sense of religious devoutness to the followers. The priest performs community vespers in the chapel once a year in the eve of the feast of the Holy Fathers on the 14th of October.
Hatjiroussos Cave

Hatjiroussos Cave

The ‘cave of Hatjiroussos’ is located in the center of the traditional core of the village at the base of a steep hill. It is an impressive perimeter cave with a depth of about 10 meters and a height of about two meters in a total area of about 60-70 square meters. The cave got its name from the homonymous family that first inhabited in its place. It is said that the Hatjiroussos family was the first to reside in the current position of the village of Lofou. This is estimated to have occurred during the Ottoman rule.

Today the cave has been preserved partly by Lofou Community Council. The maintenance work has, however, paused in order for the cave to be scientifically investigated by the Geological Survey Department of the Republic of Cyprus. At first sight, it appears that the ‘cave of Hatjiroussos’ is a monumental place that may be used in order to witness the lifestyle of the people of Lofou in older times.

Kourris Dam in Cyprus

Kourris Dam

All Accommodation

Oinoessa Traditional Boutique
Metamorphosis Mansions
Agrovino
Apokryfo
Relaxing stone house
Folia Lofou
Lofou Traditional Stone House
Mpalkonaki Lofou
Xenios Cottages
Constantias stone houses
Komi Lofou Traditional House
Ta Lofitika 2
Apanemia Inn Studio
Lofou Palace Traditional House
Kazani House Lofou
Apanemia Inn House
Lofou Traditional House

The best Restaurants in the Village of Lofou

Agrino Restaurant

Agrino Restaurant

The AGRINO restaurant serves traditional cypriot cuisine full of originality and prepared with wholesome fresh produce. The dining room has a warm atmosphere with cyprus stone flagged floor, stone walls and open fireplace. It opens into the courtyard where breakfast, lunch, drinks and candelit dinners are served in the summer or whenever the temperature allows. The courtyard barbeque kitchen with wood burning oven adds a strong local flavour to the cuisine.

Breakfast features locally baked bread, greek yoghurt, homemade preserves along with seasonal fresh fruits. Light homemade platters and salads are available for lunch. Dinner is a meze of carefully prepared wholesome dishes. After dinner drinks can be served on the TERRACE overlooking the village and surrounding countryside. Wines can be selected from our large collection of mediterranean wines stored in the underground cellar, the STERNA.

TIME
08:00 am – 22:00 pm FOR RESERVATIONS
Tel: +357 25 813712
Agrovino Taverna, Courtyard and Bar

Agrovino Taverna, Courtyard and Bar

Costas and his family have been running the taverna for many years and with a host of experience in Cypriot cuisine and hospitality, they have become well known right across the region.The Restaurant offers a wide ranging traditional menu with specialities such as homemade Moussaka and Afelia being all-time favourites with many regular customers.The full Greek meze which is the order of the day on Sundays will leave you feeling as if you won’t need to eat again until the following Sunday!

TIME
?? FOR RESERVATIONS
Tel: +357 25470202 – 99 468151
Kamares Taverna

Kamares Taverna

The Tavern “Kamares” is located in the picturesque village of Lofou and its a traditional place, built of stone and decorated with antiques. Enjoy quality food with 18 varieties of appetizers, salads, main dishes with 13 exclusive, unique, our own recipes, and a wide variety of pastries.

TIME
12:00 am – 22:00 pm FOR RESERVATIONS
Tel: +357 25 470719
Coffee Shop and Wine Cellar

Coffee Shop and Wine Cellar

The Coffee Shop and Roof Terrace provide an additional venue with a breathtaking view across Cyprus towards the Salt Lake at Akrotiri. While away the afternoon with a coffee, an ice cream or delicious dessert.The Wine Cellar offers a vast selection of local produce with an opportunity to sample many of the tastes of traditional Cyprus.

Don’t forget to taste our refreshing juices of our own production (e.g. orange, pomegranate, etc).

TIME
10:00 am – 23:00 pm FOR RESERVATIONS
Tel: +357 25 470002

LOVE & EXPLORE LOFOU VILLAGE

Omodos Village

Written by Vartholomaios on 31/03/2022. Posted in Limassol.

Omodos Village in Cyprus

Omodos Village

Limassol

OMODOS WEATHER

The beautiful village of Omodos

The beautiful village of Omodos in Cyprus

Omodos is located about 42 kilometres north-west of the city of Limassol, in the geographical region of the wine-making villages. It is built near the west bank of the Cha-potami river at an average altitude of 810 meters.The village is surrounded by tall mountaintops, the tallest of which are “Afames” (1153 m.) and “Kremmos of Laona” (Laona’s Cliff, 1092 m.).

Omodos is located about 42 kilometres north-west of the city of Limassol, in the geographical region of the wine-making villages. It is built near the west bank of the Cha-potami river at an average altitude of 810 meters. The village is surrounded by tall mountaintops, the tallest of which are “Afames” (1153 m.) and “Kremmos of Laona” (Laona’s Cliff, 1092 m.).

The village receives an annual average rainfall of about 760 millimetres; vines and various fruit-trees (apple, plum, pear, peach, and apricot trees) are cultivated in the region. There also are uncultivated areas that are taken over by varied natural vegetation. A small part of the village -in its north part -is taken up by the state forest of Pafos.

Regarding transportation, Omodos is connected with the village of Mandria (4 km.) in the north-east and the villages Vasa Koilaniou (3 km.) and Malia (5.5 Km.) in the south-west.

The village was quite probably created at the end of the Byzantine era or the beginnings of the Frank Domination era, after the Pano and Kato (Upper and Lower) Koupetra settlements, found in the east bank of the Cha-potami river, were dissolved. According to tradition, Isaac Comnenos -who was the despot of Cyprus (1185-1191) -found refuge in Koupetra after his defeat by the English King Richard Coeur-de-Lion in Kolossi until Richard summoned him to Limassol for talks and a truce. This means that Koupetra existed in 1191 and dissolved later.

After the break-up of the Koupetra settlements a new settlement was created around the original Holy Cross Monastery, taking the name Omodos.

In any case, the village did exist during the Frank Domination era. De Masse Latri mentions it as a feud. The mediaeval annalist Leondios Machairas reports that Omodos had been granted to the nobleman Jean de Brie by the king of Cyprus, Jacob I, on the occasion of his election in 1832. The village is found marked in old maps as Homodos, Homocios, and Omodos.

For the Greek name of the village the predominant interpretations are the following three: Coming from the Cypriot word “modos”, which means, “taking your time”, with tact, carefully. The inhabitants of Koupetra, after observing a light at the opposite mountain every night, went to see what was going on and found that the light was coming out of a thick and unapproachable, prickly bush; in order to get through it they had to cut it down, telling one another “me to modo sou” (meaning “take your time, act carefully”), until they finally entered a cave with a wooden cross and a candle inside. Many streets that lead to the surrounding villages start from the village. Out of the adverb “omou” (with) and the word “odos” (street), Omodos was formed. It is reported in Frank documents that the feudal lord Homodeus lived in the region and it is very probable that the village was named after him.

Since ancient times Omodos is renowned for its superb grapes and tasty wines. According to tradition, the -of excellent quality and sweet smelling -wine Afames, which took its name from the mountain that bares the same name and is located east of the village, was the cause for the island being conquered by the inebriate Sultan Selem II so that he could have this famous wine as his own.

The known mediaeval winepress, found at a small distance from the Holy Cross Monastery, is evidence to the fact that production of traditional wine took place in Omodos since ancient times. The inhabitants of Omodos, apart from growing vines and producing excellent wine and “zivania” (traditional alcoholic beverage), also handle the making of “soutzoukos” (must-stick with almonds), “palouze” (must jelly), “kkiofterka” (dried must jelly in rhomboid pieces), and “koulourka” (rusks). The “arkatena koulourka” (crunchy rusks with yeast) of Omodos are also well known and sought after throughout Cyprus. Also, genuine and of excellent taste sweets are made out of local fruits. Home handicraft flourishes in Omodos. The village’s women, apart from the plentiful and hard work that they offer next to their husbands for the cultivation of the earth, are also occupied with handmade embroideries, making wonderful brocades, tablecloths, threaded quilts, and narrow-knit and Chantilly laces.

Omodos, built at the slope of the mountain, between a verdant carpet of vines, surrounded by mountains that appear as though they were placed in a masterly layout, is one of the most picturesque villages of Cyprus. The large plaza of the village, unique in its graphic quality and size, in front of the majestic monastery of the Holy Cross, the mediaeval Winepress, the narrow alleys, and the stone-made houses all “drowned” in green lend a special beauty and charm to the village. Moreover, the village’s houses themselves present some interest as far as folkloric architecture is concerned, with the tiled roofs or terraces, the picturesque upper storeys, the paved and flowery yards with jars inside, the wooden doors and the variously decorated gateways, and the balconies and elongated rooms being the main elements. Folkloric art is also preserved in a traditional manner inside the houses where one can observe the old, tall bed with the in-wrought mosquito net, the chiselled couch, the chairs with straw-fibre, the walls decorated with frames made out of silkworm cocoons, the fire-stove and chimney with its copper-made pots, the “tsestos” (wicker-made hamper) and the “tatsia” (very fine sieve). In addition, the large, red jars used for the storage of wine are found in the house’s stockroom, which is -above everything else -a workroom for the processing of grapes. The old plough, the wineskin, the grapes’ grinder, the hampers, and the caldron for the “zivania” are also still preserved.

Ecclesiastical Treasury Museum
Struggle Museum

Ecclesiastical Treasury Museum

The museum houses a large number of valuable objects and precious treasures of Orthodoxy, saved from earlier generations, who in turn passed on to their offspring.

Struggle Museum

The national liberation struggle of Cyprus against the British colonial administration, known as the EOKA struggle, started on the 1st of April 1955 and ended with the Zurich — London agreements in February of 1959.

Ecclesiastical Treasury Museum

The museum houses a large number of valuable objects and precious treasures of Orthodoxy, saved from earlier generations, who in turn passed on to their offspring.

Ecclesiastical Treasury Museum

The museum houses a large number of valuable objects and precious treasures of Orthodoxy, saved from earlier generations, who in turn passed on to their offspring.All these works of art exhibited in a specially designed area.

Some of the remarkable items to be exhibited are the following:

• Byzantine icons of excellent craft • Ancient gospels of 1769 and 1728.
• Old books, some belonging to monthly editions, from the 16th-19th century. Some old editions include hand-written reminders which are very old.
• The golden-embroidered, big Russian Sepulchral.
• Big, wooden, graven gilded lamps and stands for the gospels.
• Excellently crafted communion cups and other holly vessels like grippers used in the Holly Communion.
• Ancient holly canonicals, belt fasteners and clerical belts.
• Silver reliquaries etc.
Struggle Museum

The national liberation struggle of Cyprus against the British colonial administration, known as the EOKA struggle, started on the 1st of April 1955 and ended with the Zurich — London agreements in February of 1959.

Struggle Museum

The national liberation struggle of Cyprus against the British colonial administration, known as the EOKA struggle, started on the 1st of April 1955 and ended with the Zurich — London agreements in February of 1959. The Struggle of EOKA is the culmination of long-standing struggles on behalf of the People of Cyprus in order to conquer their freedom. Omodos was always present in all of the struggles for the freedom of Cyprus. Its contribution dates back to the first quarter of the previous century. With Church Steward Dositheos, from the Holy Monastery of the Holy Cross in Omodos, as the head figure, the inhabitants actively participated in the Greek revolution. Omodos’s inhabitants also actively participated in the two World Wars, as well as in the national liberation struggle of EOKA 1955 — 1959. The contribution of Omodos was great and the price that was paid was heavy. Arrests, imprisonment, the blowing up of a hide-out, and other catastrophes.

Holy Cross (Timios Stavros) Church
Apostolos Philippos Church

Holy Cross
(Timios Stavros) Church

The ornament and true pride & joy of Omodos is the Monastery of the Holy and Life-giving Cross, built at the heart of the community. It rises majestically and with its imposing presence it becomes a significant part of Cyprus’s cultural heritage.

According to tradition, one night the inhabitants of the neighbouring villages Pano (Upper) and Kato (Lower) Koupetra, which do not exist today, observed a fire in some bushes at the area where the monastery stands today. When it dawned they went to the spot where the fire was seen but there was no sign. This phenomenon repeated for several nights. So they started to dig the earth, discovering a small cave in which they found the Cross. In order to thank the Lord, they constructed a chapel over the cave and kept their precious treasure there, which became a sacred place of adoration for them. With the passage of time the chapel expanded and was converted into a Monastery with many monks and a vast fortune -not only in Cyprus but also abroad – maintaining a grange (monastery dependency) in Constantinople (Istanbul) and real estate in Russia.

According to tradition, the Monastery was established before St. Helen’s arrival in Cyprus in 327 AD. The exact date of establishment is unknown. Perhaps it existed before the village and Omodos was later established around the monastery. Various historians of Cyprus such as Neofytos Rodinos, the Russian monk and traveller Barsky, the Dean Kyprianos and others, refer to St. Helen’s visit to Cyprus and to the fact that she left a part of the Holy Rope and the Holy Rood in the Monastery. This rope, with which the Romans bound Christ to the Cross, is described as red coloured and “stained by the blood of Christ”.

After several miracles by the Cross, the Monastery gained substantial reputation and evolved to a great place of adoration. The historical Monastery of Omodos has gone through various phases as the aeons went by. During the harsh centuries of Turkish domination, the Monastery managed to sustain itself and achieve great things. Around 1700 it secured a sultan’s “firman” (decree) of impunity and immunity. In 1757 water was transferred to the monastery and the cistern and fountain, found in the south-west end of the monastery, were built by the priest-monk Germanos. In 1917 the entire property of the monastery was given to Omodos’s inhabitants. A few years later it was deprived of its last monks and was converted to a parish.

Apostolos Philippos Church

The Country Church of Apostle Philip is the oldest of Omodos’s country churches and it is located…

Holy Cross (Timios Stavros) Church

The ornament and true pride & joy of Omodos is the Monastery of the Holy and Life-giving Cross, built at the heart of the community. It rises majestically and with its imposing presence it becomes a significant part of Cyprus’s cultural heritage.

Holy Cross
(Timios Stavros) Church

The ornament and true pride & joy of Omodos is the Monastery of the Holy and Life-giving Cross, built at the heart of the community. It rises majestically and with its imposing presence it becomes a significant part of Cyprus’s cultural heritage. The Monastery of the Holy Cross is one of the oldest and most historic monasteries of the island.

According to tradition, one night the inhabitants of the neighbouring villages Pano (Upper) and Kato (Lower) Koupetra, which do not exist today, observed a fire in some bushes at the area where the monastery stands today. When it dawned they went to the spot where the fire was seen but there was no sign. This phenomenon repeated for several nights. So they started to dig the earth, discovering a small cave in which they found the Cross. In order to thank the Lord, they constructed a chapel over the cave and kept their precious treasure there, which became a sacred place of adoration for them. With the passage of time the chapel expanded and was converted into a Monastery with many monks and a vast fortune -not only in Cyprus but also abroad – maintaining a grange (monastery dependency) in Constantinople (Istanbul) and real estate in Russia.

According to tradition, the Monastery was established before St. Helen’s arrival in Cyprus in 327 AD. The exact date of establishment is unknown. Perhaps it existed before the village and Omodos was later established around the monastery. Various historians of Cyprus such as Neofytos Rodinos, the Russian monk and traveller Barsky, the Dean Kyprianos and others, refer to St. Helen’s visit to Cyprus and to the fact that she left a part of the Holy Rope and the Holy Rood in the Monastery. This rope, with which the Romans bound Christ to the Cross, is described as red coloured and “stained by the blood of Christ”.

After several miracles by the Cross, the Monastery gained substantial reputation and evolved to a great place of adoration. The historical Monastery of Omodos has gone through various phases as the aeons went by. During the harsh centuries of Turkish domination, the Monastery managed to sustain itself and achieve great things. Around 1700 it secured a sultan’s “firman” (decree) of impunity and immunity. In 1757 water was transferred to the monastery and the cistern and fountain, found in the south-west end of the monastery, were built by the priest-monk Germanos. In 1917 the entire property of the monastery was given to Omodos’s inhabitants. A few years later it was deprived of its last monks and was converted to a parish.
Apostolos Philippos Church

The Country Church of Apostle Philip is the oldest of Omodos’s country churches and it is located…

Apostolos Philippos Church

The Country Church of Apostle Philip is the oldest of Omodos’s country churches and it is located in the “Pente Litharia” (Five Rocks) venue west of the village and at a distance of about 3 kilometres from it.During ancient times, this country church was probably also a shrine for the god Apollo. This is witnessed by the fact that a large, age-long laurel tree stands next to the country church. Its circumference is 8 meters and its height is 17 meters. Its age is approximately estimated to be a few centuries. There are three old icons in the country church, one of Christ, one of Apostle Philip, and one of the Virgin Mary the “Zalithariotissas”, which today are in the Museum of Byzantine icons of the Holy Cross Monastery. The country church was renovated in 1773 by the Metropolitan Bishop of Pafos, Panaretos, and it was also repaired in 1851. New maintenance operations took place recently with the expenses paid by the Antiquities Department, now permanently having the church under its protection. On the Saint’s day, which is on the 14 th of November, a liturgy takes place and hundreds of faithful attend it so as to honour the Apostle.

Activities
and Attractions

Cyprus’s agrotourism offers a variety of places to visit. Places, both familiar and unfamiliar, that will soothe you and provide you with utter serenity and beauty. From Omodos to other villages, one can escape and experience a lovely and easygoing atmosphere.

Village Square in Cyprus

Village Square

Linos

Linos

Cyprus was known from ancient times for the vines and manufacture of good wines.Omodos is a classic example, which has been famous for it’s selection of grapes and tasty wines. According to the tradition, exceptional quality wine of Afami, that took the name from the mountain, east of the village, gave a reason, to the drunkard Sultan Selim B to conquer the island in order to it have this eminent wine on his own. The fact that Omodos is a well-known wine maker since ancient times is also confirmed by the existence of Linos, which was used for pressing grapes. In the old ages, as technical means for pressing the grapes, for production of wine, they used the Linos (Mill for pressing of grapes).
Xavouza

Xavouza

According to the traditional song “steile me mana sto nero” (mother send me to the water), the task of carrying water to the house in the old days was handled by the young ladies. They used to carry it home from the closest source using a clay pitcher.

Vineyards / Wineries

Vineyards / Wineries

The vineyards constituted for Cyprus one of the main occupations from the old years up to today and it was closely connected with the life and the customs of the Cypriot viticulturist. Of course, Omodos, one of the most important wine villages of Limassol could not be an exception to this. With the byway of centuries the vine in the Omodos found hospitable environment, soft climate and territorial conditions, all ideal for his growth. With primitive means, the mattock and the plough, but first of all with hard work and sweat, the villagers with faculty achieved to change the wild and very tall hills into vine growing areas. From very old until today the vine constitutes the unique source of income for Omodos. The economic importance of vine is very big, because many families, more than 500 viticulturists, they depend indirectly or immediately from the culture of vine. Roughly the cultivated are about 6,700 decaries and the production of their product reach roughly the 4000 tons of grapes. Still, the vine develops a big rate of ground that does not flourish economically other type of agricultural product. Still the environment becomes more beautiful with its green color. The viticulturists from Omodos, even today, even though their is intense urbanism observed in the region they try to maintain, not only the vine, but at the same time and the natural environment. Of course, today apart from the local traditional varieties, the white and black, there is cultivation of new wine varieties like Chaperon Sauvignon, Shiras, Siartone, Risling e.t.c It is undeniable, that at Omodos they are produced grapes of quality, which in their turn produce wines of exceptional quality.
EOKA Hideout

EOKA Hideout

Omodos’s contribution to the liberation struggles of our nation has been voluminous, significant, and expressed through deeds. Courageous and dynamic people could not be held back from the liberation struggle of 1955 – 1959. From the beginning until the end, many inhabitants of Omodos connected to and assisted the EOKA organisation in any possible way. Quite a few were the cases of combatant locals that were arrested and tortured by the British and several were those that were locked up in detention rooms. Many wanted fighters from all over Cyprus passed through or stayed in Omodos, for small or large periods of time. Among them was also Grigoris Afxentiou. One effect of the rich activity developed by Omodos’s fighters, which were inspired by noble and high ideas that are common in all the free nations, was the creation of a hide-out in the house of Aristos and Maroulla Theodorou from Omodos, after instructions given by Grigoris Afxentiou.

All Accommodation

Afames House
Omodos Katoi Holiday Homes
Omodos Cozy Houses
Stou Kir Yianni
Omodos Maria’s Apartments
Omodos Square Mansion
Kanarinis Apartments
Softades Cottage
Omodos Village Houses
Omodos Dream Cottages

The best Restaurants in the Village of Omodos

Ambelothea Tavern

Ambelothea Tavern

TIME
12:00 am – 22:30 pm FOR RESERVATIONS
Tel:+357 25 421366
Makrinari Tavern

Makrinari Tavern

TIME
12:00 am – 17:00 pm FOR RESERVATIONS
Tel: +357 25 422151
Omodhos Taverna

Omodhos Taverna

TIME
09:00 am – 16:00 pm FOR RESERVATIONS
Tel: +357 25421493
Katoi Restaurant & Special Events

Katoi Restaurant & Special Events

TIME
12:00 am – 16:00 pm FOR RESERVATIONS
Tel: +357 99674444

Arsos Village

Arsos Village

The beautiful village of Arsos

Arsos Village

Folk Art Museum

Icon store room of St. Mariamnis

Folk Art Museum

Folk Art Museum

Icon store room of St. Mariamnis

Icon store room of St. Mariamnis

Folk Art Museum

Folk Art Museum

Icon store room of St. Mariamnis

Icon store room of St. Mariamnis

Church Apostolou Philippou

Panayia Katholiki Chapel

Church Apostolou Philippou

Church Apostolou Philippou

Panayia Katholiki Chapel

Church Apostolou Philippou

Church Apostolou Philippou

Panayia Katholiki Chapel

Activities and Attractions

Village Square

Village Square

The Six Fountains

The Six Fountains

Nature Trail

Arsos Nature Trail

Architecture & Village Alleys

Architecture & Village Alleys

Functions and Festivals

Functions and Festivals

Vineyards

Vineyards

Heroes Monument

Heroes Monument

Traditional Products

Traditional Products

Information Technology Centre of Krasochoria (Wine Villages)

Centre of Traditional Flavours and an Information Technology Centre of Krasochoria (Wine Villages)

Kallena Arsos Botanic Garden & Branch

Kallena Arsos Botanic Garden & Branch

All Accommodation

Cornaro House

Magdalous House

Arsorama Village Homes

Fotini’s House

Kantara House

Arsos Nest

Arsos Village Apartment

The best Restaurants in the Village of Arsos

Arsos Restaurant Snack Cafe

Agora

LOVE & EXPLORE ARSOS VILLAGE

Platres Village

Platres Village

The beautiful village of Platres

Platres Village

Police Station

Traditional Buildings

Traditional Buildings

Traditional Buildings

Police Station

Traditional Buildings

Traditional Buildings

Panayia Faneromenis Holy Church

Panayia Iamatiki Chapel (Samatziotissas)

Panayia Faneromenis Holy Church

Panayia Faneromenis Holy Church

Panayia Iamatiki Chapel (Samatziotissas)

Panayia Iamatiki Chapel (Samatziotissas)

Panayia Faneromenis Holy Church

Panayia Faneromenis Holy Church

Panayia Iamatiki Chapel (Samatziotissas)

Panayia Iamatiki Chapel (Samatziotissas)

Activities and Attractions

Giorgos Seferis Hall

Giorgos Seferis Hall

Kalidonia Waterfall

Activities
and Attractions

Activities
and Attractions