Limassol

Limassol or Lemesos as it is pronounced in Greek, is the second-largest city in Cyprus, located on the island’s southern coast. With a rich history, vibrant culture, and modern urban development, Limassol is a dynamic city that blends the charm of the old with the energy of the new. It is known for its bustling port, picturesque marina, cosmopolitan lifestyle, and long Mediterranean coastline. It has the population of 260 000 residents.

History

 

Its past reveals a civilisation uninterrupted for more than 5.000 years. Its history is associated with the Crusades in Medieval time and in this period Limassol became an important port. The Kourion ancient agora and theater, the medieval castles of Limassol and Kolossi, the ancient temple of Aphrodite in Amathounta and the archaeological, medieval and folk museums reveal the rich history and tradition of the city.

Limassol’s stunning history dates back to ancient times with the city evolving from the two important ancient city-kingdoms: Amathus and Kourion to a modern coastal hub. The city gained prominence during the Byzantine and Crusader periods. Richard the Lionheart famously married Berengaria of Navarre in Limassol in 1191, crowning her Queen of England.

 

Economy

Limassol has one of the largest ports in the Middle East which handles a large number of passengers and merchandise. It has met an increase since 1974 when the other important port in Cyprus, Ammochstos, was lost during the Turkish occupation.

Today, Limassol has become the EU’s largest shipmanagement centre with more than 60 offshore shipping companies in the town.  The Limassol Marina has been in operation since June 2014 and can accommodate up to one thousand ships.

The growth of tourism has led to the creation of luxury hotels and the development of wonderful beaches making Limassol an important resort in the Mediterranean.

Festivals 

Limassol is the city of festivals. The Wine, Beer and Carnival Festivals are famous and give joy and liveliness in the city.

There are also many events all year round especially in summer including a series of music, dance and theatre events in the city center such as the Folk Music and Dance Festivals and many others.