| 13 October 2006
Page 1 of 2
Limassol (Lemessos) is situated in the south of the island and it is Cyprus´ main industrial and maritime area and also the second biggest town of the country. Its population is about 135.000 and rises during holiday times because of the tourism. Most of the tourists only pass by on their way to the more historic sites like Akrotiri or the Troodos mountains, but there is actually a lot to see in Limassol besides a busy industrial centre. Places of interest include the Berengaria Castle, the place where Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria, Kolossi Castle, the ancient city of Curium and its still functionning theatre, amathunta and many other archeological spots scattered around the city. If it is night life you are looking for, check out Yermasogea, the tourist area of Limassol, where both locals and tourists meet in the vibrant clubs and bars. The old city centre though is the place to go to. A walk will lead the visitor to a vibrant community full of shop owners crafts people, artists of all disciplines and businessmen. Because the city is relatively untouched by the streams of tourism, it has been able to maintain the traditions of Cypriote life: meze restaurants, wine and beer cellars, places to sit outside and just watch people passing by. Nevertheless, traditional old boutiques and dark inns, where the Cypriots drink the famous Brandy sour drink are rapidly changing into modern shopping centres and restaurants. Limassol is know for its famous wine festivals held in August.
Lemesos, (Limassol) is the second largest city in Cyprus, after Nicosia. It is located on Akrotiri Bay between the ancient towns of Amathus and Kourion. It is the largest city in geographical size, as well as being the biggest municipality of Cyprus. Limassol is a home for around 179,900 people (2005).The city is well known for its biggest port in the Mediterranean transportation trade. This richly cultured city has become one of the most important tourism destinations in Cyprus. It is also a hub for trade and services in the area.
As well as the awesome sea sights and attractions, Limassol provides luxurious accommodation facilities for tourists, offering some of the most impressive hotels in Cyprus.
In addition to this, the city of Limassol houses the Cyprus Univeristy of Technology. This was established in 2004, and only recently, in 2007/8 opened its doors to students for the first academic year.
This univeristy was opened in Limassol in order to offer undergraduate and postgraduate schemes that are not already offered at the University of Cyprus, in Nicosia.
At present, this cosmopolitan seaside city has become prominent for the wine trade industry. Limassol hosts the two main festivals of Cyprus; the Carnival and the Wine Festival in September, where the city offers a variety of appreciative entertainment for all ages.
