Rhapsody Shore & Land Excursions > Cyprus - Limassol > Cyprus, A Time Capsule

Cyprus, A Time Capsule

Approximately 7,000 B.C. a civilization existed on the island of Cyprus which built round homes made of stone, choosing hillsides away from shore to safeguard against raids from pirates.

Excavations at the settlement of Khirokitia have brought to light one of the most important Neolithic cultures in the world complete with a defence wall, circular houses, tombs and many stone utensils.

The fascinating reconstructed model houses at the bottom of the hill give the visitor a very clear picture of how the settlement looked in antiquity.

Steeped in history, the picturesque village of Lefkara is famous for its lace and embroideries.

Leonardo Da Vinci visited the village buying an altar cloth which he donated to the Milan Cathedral.

Richard the Lionheart on his way to the Third Crusade deposed of the self proclaimed emperor of Cyprus taking possession of the island in 1191 marrying Berengaria of Navarre in Limassol where she was crowned queen of England. Her wedding dress was made of lace from Lefkara.

Take a stroll through the narrow streets of Lefkara lined with small boutiques and shops and enjoy the ambience of the place before returning to Limassol.

 

Special Notes:
Tour suitable for persons with limited walking capabilities but not wheelchair confined. Cobblestone streets at Lefkara and uneven terrain at the reconstructed houses at Khirokitia. A series of stairs and wooden walkways at the hillside where the excavated site is found.

 

 

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