lace-like embroidery which is a very traditional and famous souvenir of Cyprus. One of the famous designs they do on fabric is inspired by Leonardo da Vinci art. Lefkara is also known for silver artifacts and local delights. Limassol old town also has a small market place near the castle where you can find some local trinkets and generic souvenirs.

PLACES WE’E VISITED: We spent total of two days in Southern Cyprus and one full day in the Northern part which is occupied by the Turkish now. Some of the towns here are small and can be combined with other nearby places. Renting a car definitely was the way to go here. Visiting these big and small cities were fun but half the entertainment was to drive by scenichighways and get to these small places.

1) LIMASSOL (LEMESOS): Since we stayed in Limassol, we decided to roam around Limassol on the first day. This is the 2nd largest city of Cyprus. The city is thriving with busy shopping centers, countless taverns, restaurants, and grooving nightlife.

Our first stop was Limassol Castle. Located in the historic city center of Limassol, the purpose of this castle was to guard and protect both the port and the city itself. The present edifice dates back to the Ottoman period, 1590. But archeological evidence indicates that it existed during the Byzantine period too.

Inside Limassol Castle in Cyprus

Some early excavations, like marble pedestal, floor of Middle Byzantine (10th – 11th century), bases of colonnades, basilica and chapels, and tombstones are some highlights of this