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For a holiday that offers the perfect combination of culture and sunshine, a trip to the Cypriot city of Larnaca is a great choice. Not only is it the oldest settlement on the island, it's also one of the biggest, so there is plenty of opportunity to explore fascinating landmarks while enjoying the pleasant weather. Once you've arrived at your luxury villa in Cyprus, you may be tempted to do nothing more than laze by the pool or on the beach to soak up the sunshine. Doing this for your entire break, however, would mean that you miss out on many of the city's wonderful attractions. Incorporate a visit to some - or even all - of the following landmarks during your holiday and you'll gain an insight into the island's rich history and blend of cultures. Agios Lazaros Church Constructed some 1,000 years ago, this church is named after Agios Lazaros, who is said to have been resurrected from the dead by Jesus Christ and came to Kition (the ancient city where Larnaca is now situated) in 33 AD. He would later become the region's first bishop and patron saint, and by heading down into the crypt you can see his marble tomb. As you explore the building, which is free to enter and open all year round, make sure you check out the beautiful gold-covered iconostasis and examples of baroque architecture. It is partially because of these features that the Agios Lazaros Church is considered to be one of the Byzantine-era buildings in Cyprus. Larnaca Fort Originally constructed in the 14th century, the Larnaca Fort has since expanded on several occasions and dominates the city's skyline. The fortress played an important role in defending the city's harbour for hundreds of years, although it would later be used as a prison when the island would be ruled by the British in the 19th century. Today, it contains a fascinating museum where you can see artefacts excavated from nearby archaeological sites, while in the summer months the courtyard is used as an open-air theatre. Tuzla Mosque A trip to the Tuzla Mosque will also provide you with an insight into the island's cultural heritage. Despite its name, the building has not always been an Islamic place of worship and was actually used as a Catholic church from its construction in the 12th century until 1571 when Cyprus fell under Ottoman rule. This led to a minaret being built on the foundations of the original bell tower and, as you explore the structure, you'll see a range of different architectural styles, including Byzantine-era paintings. Near the mosque, meanwhile, you'll find an intricate stone water fountain that dates back to Cyprus's Venetian occupation between 1489 and 1570. Pierides-Marfin Laiki Bank Museum If you're keen to get an even deeper insight into the city's history, it's worth heading to the Pierides-Marfin Laiki Bank Museum. Situated on Zinonos Kitieos, one of Larnaca's main shopping streets, this cultural institution displays objects from every era of Cypriot civilisation, with some artefacts dating back more than 9,000 years. With everything from Bronze Age relics to Roman glassware on display, you can be confident of finding something to interest you. If you're hoping to take in fascinating items while enjoying the glorious Mediterranean sun go to the courtyard where you'll come across sculptures made by Cypriot and Greek artists. If you fancy taking a cultural break in the Mediterranean, visit Premier Holidays. We offer a range of luxury villas in Cyprus, including ones in Larnaca, a city where you can explore fascinating museums and historic landmarks.
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