Larnaca: Where History Meets Tranquility

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Yia sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είστε;
  [Pos iste?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε Αγγλικά;
  [Milate Agglika?]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menou, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!Υγεία!
  [Ygeia!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε έναν γιατρό!
  [Kaleste enan yatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Ime arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na miosete tin timi?]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (dekax)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
• 8Οχτώ
  [Ohto]
• 9Εννέα
  [Ennea]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για το...);
  [Ena isitirio (gia to...)?]

Larnaca, known in antiquity as Kition, has a history that dates back over 4,000 years. Founded by the Mycenaean Greeks in the 13th century BC, Kition became a significant city-kingdom. Archaeological excavations have unearthed extensive ruins, including defensive walls, temples dedicated to the goddess Astarte, and remains of a sophisticated drainage system. The city's wealth and strategic location made it a pivotal trade hub in the eastern Mediterranean.

In the 9th century BC, the Phoenicians settled in Kition, further cementing its status as a prominent trading center. They introduced advanced shipbuilding techniques and expanded the city's harbor. The Phoenician presence is evident through various archaeological finds, including inscriptions and artifacts that highlight the cultural fusion between the native Cypriots and the Phoenician settlers.

Following Alexander the Great's conquests, Kition came under Hellenistic rule in the 4th century BC. The city was later absorbed into the Roman Empire, becoming part of the province of Cyprus. During these periods, Kition flourished, with the construction of grand public buildings, theaters, and bathhouses. The fusion of Greek and Roman architectural styles is evident in the remnants of this era.

Christianity reached Kition in the 1st century AD, and the city is believed to have been visited by Lazarus of Bethany, who, according to tradition, became the first bishop of Kition. The Church of Saint Lazarus, built in the 9th century, stands as a testament to this early Christian influence. During the Byzantine era, Larnaca continued to thrive, serving as a religious and economic center, with numerous churches and monasteries established in and around the city.

The medieval period saw Larnaca fall under the rule of the Lusignan dynasty following the Crusades. The city became a significant administrative center and port for the Kingdom of Cyprus. This era brought about the construction of fortifications and the development of a thriving commercial port, connecting Cyprus with Europe and the Middle East.

In 1571, Cyprus was conquered by the Ottoman Empire, marking the beginning of over three centuries of Ottoman rule. Larnaca, known as 'Iskele' during this period, became an important administrative and trade center. The Ottomans built various structures, including the Larnaca Fort in the early 17th century, which served both as a defensive stronghold and a prison.

The British took control of Cyprus in 1878, and Larnaca continued to prosper under British rule. The city developed modern infrastructure, including roads, schools, and hospitals. Larnaca's port remained a vital link for trade and communication until the development of newer ports in other parts of Cyprus. The British influence is still visible in the city’s architecture and urban planning.

Since Cyprus gained independence in 1960, Larnaca has grown into a vibrant city blending its rich historical past with modern development. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, cultural festivals, and significant archaeological sites. Modern Larnaca continues to honor its ancient heritage while embracing contemporary advancements.

Larnaca is served by the Larnaca International Airport (LCA), which is located about 4 kilometers southwest of the city center. The airport handles numerous international flights from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. From the airport, you can take a taxi, which takes around 15 minutes to reach the city center. There are also public buses (routes 417, 418, 419, and 429) that connect the airport to various parts of Larnaca.

Larnaca has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses that cover the city and surrounding areas. Intercity buses connect Larnaca to other major cities in Cyprus, such as Nicosia, Limassol, and Paphos. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Car rental services are also available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. For shorter distances, walking or biking are convenient options.

The official currency in Cyprus is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in tourist areas, and they dispense euros. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller shops, markets, or more remote areas. Currency exchange services are available at banks and exchange bureaus.

Larnaca is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any city, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, such as markets and public transport. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which covers police, fire, and medical services. Larnaca has several hospitals and clinics that provide medical care to tourists. Pharmacies are widespread and offer over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacists can often provide advice and treatment.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a warm smile or handshake. Cypriots are generally friendly and welcoming. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as halloumi cheese and souvlaki. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Larnaca like a local, visit the bustling Larnaca Market on a Saturday morning for fresh produce and local goods. Take a leisurely stroll along the Finikoudes Promenade, where you can enjoy a coffee at a local café or try a traditional Cypriot meze at one of the seaside taverns. Engaging with the locals can provide insights into the city’s rich history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Church of Saint Lazarus and the Hala Sultan Tekke, both significant historical and cultural landmarks.