Larnaca Key Attractions
The incredibly long history of Larnaca has given it many impressive historical sites, which bring to life its rich and varied cultural legacy. The city also has a number of museums where you can learn more about the people who have lived here over the centuries. The city and its port are also a living attraction, where you can wander through narrow streets, past centuries-old buildings and soak up the atmosphere of this ancient place.
Acropolis of ancient Kition
This little section of Larnaca was once the capital of the entire island. The old city, which was rich in palaces and temples, is all but gone; however, several gold, bronze and ivory tombs from the 13th century remain as well as the remnants of Aphrodite's and Heracles' temples.
Choirokoitia
This fascinating archeological site, 32kms from Larnaca, reveals one of the oldest Neolithic sites, dating from 7,000 BC. This settlement was home to primitive farmers who cultivated barley and wheat. Visitors to the site can wander among the settlement's defensive walls, circular houses and tombs. Unfortunately, most of the artefacts found here are now displayed in the Cyprus Museum in Nicosia, but it helps to put the objects in perspective by seeing the original environment they came from.
District Museum
This modern museum is within walking distance of the town centre and contains a wide-ranging, eclectic collection of antiquities which have been found in Larnaca over the years. The well-organised displays feature artefacts from the Neolithic to the Roman periods. Items such as tools, coins, lamps and ceramics are exhibited as well as many other diverse artistic pieces (tel: +357 24 630 169).
Hala Sultan Tekke
Demonstrating the rich cultural heritage of the city is this important Muslim shrine, located on the outskirts of Larnaca. Among an oasis of palm trees at the edge of a lake is a mosque where the prophet Muhammad's aunt Umm Haram is buried.
