Discover Cyprus: Hiking between gods and centuries of wine culture

Discover Cyprus: Hiking between gods and centuries of wine culture

Paphos, Zypern - Cyprus, the third largest island in the Mediterranean, is more than just a destination for beach vacationers. In addition to sunny beaches, the island offers unique cultural and historical experiences. Hikers can walk in the nature reserve Akama in the footsteps of Greek gods such as Aphrodite, Adonis and Dionysos. These places are not only the locations of numerous myths, but also part of the rich inheritance of Cyprus, which goes back to ancient times. A particularly impressive highlight is the sanctuary of Aphrodite in Paphos, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980 and attracts pilgrims from all over the world.

The hiking trails in the Akamas are not only less frequented than the ruins in Paphos, but also an ideal goal to discover rare animal species and endemic plants. Guided hikes are offered by Manuel Ioannou, a local expert who leads groups through the picturesque pine and juniper forests. On the way he gives exciting insights into the mythology of the country and emphasizes the importance of environmental protection and sustainable tourism.

cultural treasures and wine tradition

Cyprus viticulture has a more than 5000 year old history. Wine has been pressed in the Panagia Chrysorrogiatissa monastery since the 12th century, and guests can try wines like marathetftico and commandaria that are served by Mönch Efthymios. This monastery is one of the many sites that reflect the influence of wine tradition on culture and daily life on the island. During the Ottoman rule, the monasteries of the viticulture dealt and made it their own liturgical necessity.

Younger generations of winegrowers are committed to making Cypric wines known internationally and bringing a fresh air into tradition. The Roman villa des Dionysus in Paphos shows impressive mosaics of the wine of God and is another example of the interweaving of culture and nature in Cyprus. After a hike, visitors enjoy popular dishes such as Cypriot MEZE with olives and Halloumi.

world sites in Cyprus

Cyprus currently has three UNESCO World Heritals that represent the cultural treasures of the island. The first world heritage that was recorded in 1980 is the ancient city of Paphos, followed by the painted churches in the area of ​​Troodos, which were recognized in 1985. These include the churches of Agios Nikolaos Tis Stegis in Kakopetria and Agios Ioannis Lampadistis in Kalopanagiotis. The third place, chirokitia, is an excavation site of an aueramic Neolithic settlement and was included in the list in 1998.

Cyprus joined the World Heritage Convention in 1975 and has recorded several important cultural recognition since then. The tentative list currently includes eleven potential future places that are already in the discussion for future recognition. Luzerner Zeitung wikipedia

The journey to Cyprus is uncomplicated, with flights from Basel, Geneva and Zurich, and the accommodation options vary from luxurious hotels such as the Anassa Hotel to charming accommodations in the mountain village of Drousia. Cyprus thus offers its visitors a fascinating mix of culture, nature and history that goes far beyond conventional beach vacation.