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Tzelefos Bridge: A Venetian Legacy in the Cypriot Forest

Discover Cyprus's largest Venetian bridge, a hidden gem in the Paphos Forest, offering history, nature, and tranquility.

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Nestled within the Paphos Forest, Tzelefos Bridge is the largest and most iconic of Cyprus's Venetian-era bridges. Built between 1489 and 1571, during Venetian rule, the stone archway provided a vital link for transporting goods and connecting remote communities. Today, it stands as a picturesque landmark and a testament to the island's rich history.

A brief summary to Tzelefos Bridge

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding trails.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and to avoid crowds.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike or spend several hours in the area.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as rain can make the stone surface of the bridge slippery.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Arminou Dam or explore the traditional village of Agios Nikolaos.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Agios Nikolaos village, follow the signs towards Tzelefos Bridge. The bridge is located approximately 6 kilometers from the village. The drive takes about 15 minutes on a well-maintained road, though it can be narrow in some sections. Parking is available near the bridge. Parking is free. Note that during peak season, parking might be limited.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Agios Nikolaos, a taxi to Tzelefos Bridge will cost approximately €15-€20. The taxi ride will take approximately 15 minutes. It's advisable to arrange a return trip in advance, as taxis are not always readily available at the bridge.

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Discover more about Tzelefos Bridge

Tucked away in the Troodos Mountains, the Tzelefos Bridge offers a glimpse into Cyprus's Venetian past. Constructed during the period of Venetian rule (1489-1571), the bridge served as a crucial link in the island's transportation network. It facilitated the movement of goods, particularly mined ore, from Pera Pedi to the ports of Paphos and Polis, via a bustling camel route. Spanning the Diarizos River, the Tzelefos Bridge connected villages on either side, including Milikouri, Vretsia, Agios Ioannis, Agios Nikolaos, Kaminaria, and Tris Elies. The bridge itself is an impressive stone structure, standing approximately 6 meters high, 30 meters long, and 3.2 meters wide. Its arched design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding pine and plane tree forest. Today, the Tzelefos Bridge is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the bridge, admire its architecture, and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding forest. Several nature trails begin or pass near the bridge, including the Venetian Bridges Trail, which connects Tzelefos with the Elia and Roudia bridges. The area is also ideal for picnics, with benches available for visitors to relax and soak in the scenery. The bridge is constructed from river stones, and a small, barely visible cross can be found on a stone on the south side. Waiting points at both entrances hint at the intense activity that once occurred here during the Middle Ages. The Diarizos River flows under the bridge, with water flowing year-round.

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