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In the middle of the Nicosia — Limassol road, between Kornos and Psevdas, a mild, shallow valley is traversed by a small tributary of the river Tremithos, and under the northern foothills of Stavrovouni, the Larnaca District village of Pyrga is located.
Built at an elevation of 270 meters, the village is literally “submerged” in pine trees and untamed vegetation.
Pyrga Village
In the middle of the Nicosia — Limassol road, between Kornos and Psevdas, a mild, shallow valley is traversed by a small tributary of the river Tremithos, and under the northern foothills of Stavrovouni, the Larnaca District village of Pyrga is located.
Built at an elevation of 270 meters, the village is literally “submerged” in pine trees and untamed vegetation.
A panoramic view of the village
The village is located approximately 23 kilometers from Larnaca and 30 kilometers from Nicosia.
The Appidaki, Syinova, Vasioti, Evgali, Stavris, Viklia, and Pipi mountains surround and protect the Pyrga. This mountain range is verdant. If you take one of the numerous trails or a country road to the slopes of the hill, you will be awed by the abundance and diversity of the natural vegetation.
Just behind the 450-meter-tall Evgali mountain, which is located south of the village, is the 688-meter-tall Stavrovouni peak, which is the highest point in the village. Holy Monasteries of Stavrovouni and “Agias Varvaras” (St. Barbara) are located within the administrative boundaries of the community.
Camping Site
The average annual precipitation in Pyrga is approximately 430 millimeters. Due to the mountainous formations that surround the village, a shallow but extremely fertile valley is formed, which serves as the community’s primary agricultural “lung.” Cereals, potatoes, vegetables, citrus trees, olives, carobs, and a variety of legumes (primarily black-eyed French beans) are the primary products produced in this region. Large tracts of state-owned and privately-owned land are thankfully still uncultivated, allowing a vast array of wild vegetation to flourish in all its splendor.
The village’s first fountain
Pines, Phoenician junipers, wild olive trees, terebinths (turpentine trees), lentisks, butcher’s brooms, thorny brooms, lavenders “stoechas”, thorny burnets, sages (cistus and camomile), and thymes are only a few of the species one encounters while passing through. In addition, it is no coincidence that all known botanists who have occasionally studied the flora of the land have spent a great deal of time in this region. (Sibthorp 1787, Kotschy 1859, Sintenis 1880, Lindberg 1939).
This diverse natural vegetation is not irrelevant to the production of the renowned “Honey of Stavrovouni” in the region. The region’s honey has an exquisite flavor and aroma due to the abundance and quality of its flowers. The residents have realized that the future of the community, as well as their own survival, are directly tied to this natural landscape. Therefore, they became aware of the issue in time and have waged dynamic (and also legal) battles for the preservation of the natural environment in their community.
The old Water-mill
In terms of transportation, Pyrga is linked to the village of Kornos in the west (approximately 3.5 kilometers away), the village of Agia Anna in the north-east (approximately 6.5 kilometers away), and, via it, the city of Larnaca. It is located approximately 5 kilometers north-northeast of the neighboring village of Psevdas.
In terms of transportation, Pyrga is linked to the village of Kornos in the west (approximately 3.5 kilometers away), the village of Agia Anna in the north-east (approximately 6.5 kilometers away), and, via it, the city of Larnaca. It is located approximately 5 kilometers north-northeast of the neighboring village of Psevdas.
The original core of the settlement, which is comprised of small, traditional houses made of sun-dried bricks or chestnut lava, is being abandoned continuously. A number of contemporary and country homes are being built in the village’s vicinity, particularly on the peaks and slopes of the hills. Pyrga’s verdant landscape appears to have been recognized early on, as a number of Larnaca and Nicosia residents have built their country homes and cottages there.
The village has existed since the Middle Ages. However, its name dates back to Byzantine times.
There are two possible meanings for the village’s name (Pyrga or Pyrka). The first, which appears to be the most plausible, asserts that the name derives from the region’s red soil (“pyrron” = red). Thus, the village’s name is quite old and derived from pyr (fire) and the Doric idiom ga (instead of “gi,” which means earth). Therefore, the meaning of Pyrga is “red soil.”
According to another interpretation, due to the dense forests in this region, numerous pottery and charcoal kilns were constantly burning. Thus, the term ” pyrkagies ” (plural, meaning fires) was derived from the numerous fires that occurred.
The history of the village dates back to ancient times. Numerous archaeological artifacts, such as caves, earthen statues, pots, coins, jewelry, etc., discovered in the region are evidence of this. Sadly, quite a few of them are in museums abroad, having been moved there by antiquities smugglers, Ambassadors, and High Commissioners of the Great Powers who were in the island during those times. The prevalent poverty and ignorance at the time made their task easier.
The ancient medieval churches still standing in the community (Royal Chapel, Agia Marina, “Panagia tis Stazousas”) are relics of the community’s history during that time period.
According to an old tradition, the great treasure of Ianos (Janus) (silver, gold, and coins), which was never discovered, is still hidden in Pyrga, in the rumored underground galleries under and around St. Catherine. According to legend, this treasure is sufficient to sustain the entire population of Cyprus for a number of years.
A panoramic view of the village
Pyrga is an ideal location for the purchase of a country home or permanent residence on account of its favorable climate, verdant landscape, and proximity to Larnaca and Nicosia. The residents of the two cities appear to have recognized these benefits early on, as a significant number of them have found here the ideal location for their country homes and villas. Recently, a large privately owned Community Centre was constructed in the center of the village, housing the Community Offices, a Health Centre, a Post Office, a cafeteria / restaurant, an event / meeting hall, etc.
All indications are that this growth and development will continue in the years to come, transforming Pyrga into a tranquil, modern, and nearby resort for the residents of Larnaca and Nicosia. The only prerequisite is that the natural environment must be maintained at all costs.
Agia Marina
Old Agia Marina
Agia Marina
The Old Church of St. Marina is located in the southern portion of the neighborhood. It was built in the 12th century…
Agia Marina
The Old Church of St. Marina is located in the southern portion of the neighborhood. It was built in the 12th century and features a dome and a narthex that was added later (porch). Its dome contains a number of half-decayed frescoes. This medieval church is the inspiration for the name of the modern church. The costs of restoring the church of Agia Marina are being covered by the Antiquities Department, the Local Land Authority of Pyrga, and contributions from the “Leventio Paraskevaidio” centre and other believers. In the rear of the church is the village’s first spring, which historically supplied water to the entire community. In 1951, water-supply measures were enacted, and a second spring was constructed to facilitate the village’s water supply.
Old Agia Marina
The Old Church of St Marina is located in the south of the village. It was built in the 12…
Old Agia Marina
The Old Church of St Marina is located in the south of the village. It was built in the 12 th century and retains a domed roof and a narthex (porch) that was added later on. Several half worn-out frescoes are preserved in its dome. It is to this mediaeval church that community’s new church owes its name.
Agia Marina
The Old Church of St. Marina is located in the southern portion of the neighborhood. It was built in the 12th century…
Agia Marina
The Old Church of St. Marina is located in the southern portion of the neighborhood. It was built in the 12th century and features a dome and a narthex that was added later (porch). Its dome contains a number of half-decayed frescoes. This medieval church is the inspiration for the name of the modern church. The costs of restoring the church of Agia Marina are being covered by the Antiquities Department, the Local Land Authority of Pyrga, and contributions from the “Leventio Paraskevaidio” centre and other believers. In the rear of the church is the village’s first spring, which historically supplied water to the entire community. In 1951, water-supply measures were enacted, and a second spring was constructed to facilitate the village’s water supply.
Old Agia Marina
The Old Church of St Marina is located in the south of the village. It was built in the 12…
Old Agia Marina
The Old Church of St Marina is located in the south of the village. It was built in the 12 th century and retains a domed roof and a narthex (porch) that was added later on. Several half worn-out frescoes are preserved in its dome. It is to this mediaeval church that community’s new church owes its name.
Stavrovouni Monastery
On a panoramic hilltop of Cyprus, like a large eyrie planted by the hand of Hod, the renowned and one-of-a-kind Holy Monastery of…
Stavrovouni Monastery
On a panoramic hilltop of Cyprus, like a large eyrie planted by the hand of Hod, the renowned and one-of-a-kind Holy Monastery of Stavrovouni has risen for centuries atop the lofty and precipitous mount Olympus. It is also located in the Troodos mountain range, which contains several of the most beautiful monasteries in Cyprus. It is located on a rugged mountain in the center of south-east Cyprus, on an isolated peak resembling the pinnacle of a steeple, with no neighboring peaks that are higher or more substantial. This peak, with an average altitude of approximately 700 meters, makes the Monastery visible and affords every visitor a magnificent view in all directions.
Traditional Pavilion
Restored and exquisitely embellished residence where visitors can find audio-visual information about themselves and the community. There are also souvenirs and local goods for sale in the region, such as honey, cakes, etc.
Stavrovouni Monastery
Traditional Pavilion
Stavrovouni Monastery
On a panoramic hilltop of Cyprus, like a large eyrie planted by the hand of Hod, the renowned and one-of-a-kind Holy Monastery of…
Stavrovouni Monastery
On a panoramic hilltop of Cyprus, like a large eyrie planted by the hand of Hod, the renowned and one-of-a-kind Holy Monastery of Stavrovouni has risen for centuries atop the lofty and precipitous mount Olympus. It is also located in the Troodos mountain range, which contains several of the most beautiful monasteries in Cyprus. It is located on a rugged mountain in the center of south-east Cyprus, on an isolated peak resembling the pinnacle of a steeple, with no neighboring peaks that are higher or more substantial. This peak, with an average altitude of approximately 700 meters, makes the Monastery visible and affords every visitor a magnificent view in all directions.
Agia Marina
Restored and exquisitely embellished residence where visitors can find audio-visual information about themselves and the community. There are also souvenirs and local goods for sale in the region, such as honey, cakes, etc.
Marsellou Tower
Marsellou Tower
In commanding fashion, the Tower of Marcellos looms to the south of the village. This is the country home of physician and author Theodoros Marcellos. The Tower of Marcellos is an original residence with a front-facing square tower. The construction of the tower is connected to one of the proposed origins of the village’s name. According to this theory, “the name of the community derives from the presence of towers (Pyrgos in Greek means Tower) in prominent locations around the homes.” According to the villagers, Marcellos shared this belief, and he constructed the tower for this reason..
Old Fountain
Old Fountain
In the past, the residents of Pyrgos, along with those of all other Cypriot settlements, obtained water for their domestic and agricultural needs from the residential area. The transfer includes estates outside the residential zone. The transport of water to the homes and properties was arduous and tiring, particularly for the women who were responsible for it, regardless of whether they had an animal, typically a donkey, which made the work somewhat easier. As time passed, humans developed numerous techniques for extracting water from the surface of the planet. Alakati was one such effective method that was employed for an extended period of time.
Old Aqueduct
Old Aqueduct
It is located in the Kamares region southeast of the village, where there was once a watermill and tank (the foundations of which can still be seen today). Water was channeled to the watermill and adjacent crops from the Tremythos tributary via petraulaka and above the Kamares.
Old Olive trees
Old Olive trees
Numerous 700-year-old olive trees were planted by the Franks in the community of Pyrgos, hence the name Frankincense olives.
Pyrga Panorama
Pyrga Panorama
Viewing area at Pipi. Following the Community-created nature trail, the visitor is able to explore the place. The “Panorama” vantage point provides a breathtaking 270-degree vista where visitors can watch the sunrise and sunset.
Stavrovouni Waterfall
Stavrovouni Waterfall
A 10-meter-tall waterfall forms east of the Holy Monastery of Stavrovouni on the slopes of Stavrovouni in an inaccessible area called Aetofolia between the rocks.
Picnic Area
Picnic Area
The campsite “Zoodochos Pigi” is set in a green, tree-filled environment. Together with the Holy Bishopric of Larnaca, camping excursions are organised. Numerous children participate annually in summertime camping programmes. It is the responsibility of the Holy Bishopric of Larnaca to convey youngsters to the camp site.
Panorama Walking Trail
Panorama Walking Trail
“On the route to Mosfiloti (Agias Theklas street), there is an exit leading to Pipis Forest, where the “”Panorama”” nature study trail can be found. This trail offers a magnificent view of the Pyrga village and the verdant mountains. The entire journey is hilly and follows an almost circular path. On this road, the forest and the beautiful Stavrovounios monastery on its southern border are extremely significant. The extensive Pipis pine forest on the northern slope of the hill is also notable. The full panorama, the walker’s (hence the name) reward.”
View Map
Park of Peace
Park of Peace
In a continuation of the village square, next to the river Serrachi, is the community park with a space for the occupation of children and adults. The park is connected with an adjacent parking space and the main road with an arching bridge.
Park in the “Efentis Forest”
Park in the “Efentis Forest”
In the “Efentis Forest” and under the shade of tall pines, wooden benches and a grill area have been positioned to create this lovely park.
Park- Playground
Park in the center of the community
Park in the center of the community
Another park with paved paths, benches, and a garden may be found in the heart of the neighbourhood. The most attractive elements of the park are its towering palm trees.
Park next to the old nursery school
Park next to the old nursery school
Next to the old Community Nursery School, a beautiful park with grass, a paved path, and multicoloured playground equipment such as swings, a wheel, and slides has been created. This park has been designed so that both children and adults can enjoy themselves there.
Mosque
Mosque
Prior to 1963, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots peacefully coexisted in the Larnaca district village of Pyrga. After 1963, the Turkish Cypriots migrated to the nearby Turkish Cypriot village of Klavdia. In addition, they deserted their place of worship, the Muslim Mosque. Since then, the structure has not been maintained or preserved, and it is currently in a very poor state.
The best Restaurants in the Village of Pyrga
Taverna Pyrga
Inn located within the building of the Pyrgos Community Council. A wide variety of food and appetizers are available. A location where one can enjoy delicious food while passing the time.
| OPENING HOURS Tuesday– Saturday: 11:00 – 23:00 Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00 |
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