Pissouri: Cyprus' Hidden Gem by the Sea

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Ya sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είσαι;
  [Pos ise;]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσύ;
  [Kala. Esi;]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάς Αγγλικά;
  [Milas 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 plirosos, parakalo]

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

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla koitao]
• 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 meiosete tin timi;]

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

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...;]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Poia 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 ....);
  [Ena isitirio (ya ....);]

Pissouri's history dates back to antiquity, with evidence of human settlement in the area from the Neolithic period. Archaeological finds, including pottery and tools, indicate that the region was inhabited by ancient civilizations, benefiting from its strategic location and fertile land.

During the Hellenistic and Roman periods, Pissouri thrived as a significant settlement. The remnants of ancient villas, baths, and temples scattered around the area testify to its importance. The town's proximity to major cities like Kourion and Amathus contributed to its prosperity during these eras.

In the Byzantine period, Pissouri continued to flourish, playing a vital role in the island's Christianization. Several Byzantine churches and chapels, adorned with beautiful frescoes, were erected. These religious structures highlight the village's significance in the spread of Christianity across Cyprus.

During the medieval period, Pissouri was under the rule of the Lusignan and Venetian kingdoms. The village's strategic location on the route from Limassol to Paphos made it a crucial stop for travelers and merchants. Fortifications and watchtowers were constructed to protect the area from invaders.

The Ottoman Empire took control of Cyprus in 1571, and Pissouri became part of the Ottoman administrative system. The village saw significant changes during this period, with the introduction of new agricultural practices and the construction of Ottoman-style buildings, some of which still stand today.

In 1878, Cyprus was leased to the British Empire, marking the beginning of the British colonial period. Pissouri, like the rest of the island, underwent modernization, with improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The British influence is still evident in the village's architecture and culture.

Cyprus gained independence from British rule in 1960, and Pissouri entered a new era of growth and development. The village has since become a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque landscapes, traditional charm, and rich history. Efforts to preserve its cultural heritage have ensured that Pissouri remains a vibrant and historically significant part of Cyprus.

Pissouri is located on the southwest coast of Cyprus, midway between Limassol and Paphos. The nearest international airports are Paphos International Airport (approximately 30 kilometers away) and Larnaca International Airport (about 100 kilometers away). From either airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use a shuttle service to reach Pissouri. Public buses also operate between major cities and Pissouri, although they may require a transfer.

Getting around Pissouri is relatively straightforward. The village is small enough to explore on foot, especially the charming Pissouri Bay area and the village square. For longer trips, taxis are readily available and can be booked in advance. Car rental services are also an excellent option for those wishing to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace. Public buses connect Pissouri to Limassol, Paphos, and other nearby towns, though services may be less frequent on weekends and holidays.

The official currency in Cyprus is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Pissouri. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, local markets, and tips. ATMs are available in the village for cash withdrawals. Ensure you inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.

Pissouri is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Pissouri, but it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112, the European emergency number, for immediate assistance. Pissouri has a local police station and medical facilities, including pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For more severe health issues, the nearest hospitals are located in Limassol and Paphos.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing beachwear away from the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do be polite and considerate to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Kalimera' (good morning) or 'Kalispera' (good evening). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Pissouri like a local, visit the village square, especially on a Wednesday evening when the local tavernas often have live music. Engage with the locals, who are known for their hospitality and willingness to share stories about the area. Don't miss out on trying the local wine, especially from the nearby wineries. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking the surrounding hills offers stunning views and a chance to see the local flora and fauna.