Cultural Routes

Immerse yourself in the culture of Cyprus by following one of the themed routes around the island…a journey that encapsulates legend, history, viticulture or religion in an enlightening and interesting way. Follow in the footsteps of Aphrodite, the Ancient Greek Goddess of Love and Beauty who was born from the seas of Pafos (Paphos)… As you wander through layers of history, culture and mythology, you will learn all about her birth, legend and character; the rituals connected with her cult, as well as the plants and seashells associated with her. For a unique opportunity to learn about the island’s longstanding tradition of winemaking, a tour of the wineries and wine producing villages offers the chance to indulge in some wine tasting, or sample other grape-based delicacies, visiting an old monastery or a quaint wine museum along the way.

Scattered throughout the Troodos mountain areas are Cyprus’ famous ten Byzantine churches that are included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. With their remarkable pitched wooden roofs, icons and frescoes, they tell the story of the island’s deep religious connections throughout its history.

With the island constituting the largest producer and exporter of copper to the ancient world for many centuries, it contributed to the technological progress of the entire Mediterranean world and beyond, which you will uncover on the copper route that takes you through old mines and associated sites.

And the influence of the Venetians is beautifully prevalent in many intricate and characteristic churches, buildings and monuments across the island, with various routes bringing to life the unique and evocative footprints of the Venetians in Cyprus from the Byzantine period, throughout the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.

Whichever route you decide to take, it will undoubtedly lead you on the path to new and exciting discoveries, all enhanced by the dedicated publications that combine in-depth information with rich photographic images.
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