Big and Beautiful... The region of Limassol is the most extensive in Cyprus, bordering those of Larnaca, Paphos and Nicosia. Limassol ('Lemesos' in Greek) is the country's second largest city and the principal passenger and freight-handling port. It is a thriving and cosmopolitan centre of population, commerce, tourism and shopping. The coastal promenade stretches for 13 kilometres along the southern coast creating a unique 'cocktail' of changing perspectives on a city that makes few demands on the senses except to savour breath-taking sunsets and enjoy the 'buzz' of a metropolitan lifestyle complete with the amenities of modern living - including a vibrant cultural and social scene.
Limassol lies at the heart of a region characterised by a scattering of traditional Cypriot villages that hug the idyllic Mediterranean coastline and clutch the rural hinterland as it progressively climbs towards the heights of the Troodos mountain range. For those who want to 'get away from it all' this is the perfect place to find that respite from the rigours of a 24/7 existence.
Living History... Limassol is home to the Cyprus University of Technology - and a host of museums and archaeological sites reflecting the turbulent history of the area and Cyprus in general. Interventions across the centuries by foreign invaders have left their mark on the culture of the area and provided a legacy for students of history. The excellent website of the Limassol Municipality has comprehensive information about the history of the wider region - and details of the current enhancements to the local infrastructure including the development of the upscale marina and leisure facilities.
Limassol is famous for public festivities such the Carnival and Wine Festival, where people from all over the region and the whole of Cyprus gather to watch floats with serenade and other masqueraded groups; hotels stage fancy-dress balls and parties during the 10 day celebrations. Each September the great Wine Festival of Cyprus takes place in the Limassol Municipal Garden every evening. Visitors can taste for free some of the best Cyprus wines and watch performances by choirs and folk dancers from Cyprus and abroad.
Strategically situated between Larnaca and Paphos International Airports, located in the East and West of the island respectively - and along with the motorway links to the rest of Cyprus – Limassol is very much at the centre of things when it comes to living in Cyprus!
