Larnaca salt lake in Cyprus: a description of the. Excursions in Cyprus

Larnaca salt lake refers to those sites that combine interesting history, beautiful nature and of cultural value to the island of Cyprus.

History of the lake

Larnaca salt lake is near Larnaka, which in Greek is pronounced as Aliki. It can be seen only during the cold months, because in the hottest time of the year water from the lake evaporates, and in its place are salt formations.

The story of the lake has many legends one of which tells that in his place was the huge vineyards that were managed by a single owner. On the request held by the Bishop of St. Lazarus about quenching thirst a bunch of grapes she refused, citing the fact that her basket is salt. Lazarus is angry at the woman because of greed and cast a curse on this place. Since then, here and there is the lake of salt.

The consensus among researchers and historians about the origin of the lake, with some suggesting in its place was the sea, and the pond was formed after the uplift of land, other talking about the underground deposits of salt, which after rains rise with water, others believe that salt comes from underground labyrinths with the waters of the Mediterranean sea.

Larnaca salt lake: description

The lake Itself consists of 4 ponds: large - Aliki - 3 small - Orphani, Soros and Spiro. They joined a small isthmus.

Its Area is 2.2 sq km, maximum depth about 1 m.

In the summer and autumn time of year a brilliant, white, shimmering lights the surface looks amazing and very impressive. Salt drifts are very similar to the snow, and when walking seems to creak.

Salt Mining

Many years of production and development of the salt stock was the basis of the economy of the island. According to historical data, during the trading of the Venetian Republic here went every year for 70 ships Laden only with salt: in those days it was considered an important commodity.

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The Collection of salt lakes in Cyprus lasted until the mid-20th century: in the summer months, it was collected in a dry form after drying of the lake. All mining was carried out manually because of the surrounding mud shores. Using shovels, workers dug up salt, put in a basket, and on the land were transported on donkeys and were unloaded on the ground. Before sending the layers had to dry for another year.

The collection is Now discontinued for several reasons: because of the strong contamination, but also due to the fact that the Larnaca salt lake was designated a natural reserve.

Cypriot environmentalists have created a program for the protection of local animals and birds and the preservation of the lake. In the winter, here arrives a few thousand birds, about 85 species.

Considered the Most beautiful pink flamingos that cover the landscape with bright luminous cloud.

Larnaka: history and landmarks

Larnaca — an ancient town, known not only by the location here of a major international airport in Cyprus, but also for its history. It was founded in the 10th century BC, the grandson of Noah and was called Kition, that is mentioned in the Bible. The fame he gained through the life and death of the resurrected Saint Lazarus, over the tomb which built the Church. Lazarus, where his relics are saved. On one of versions of historians, the town's name is derived from the word “Larnaca”, which means “tomb”.

Under the rule of Phoenicians here operated a major trading port linking Western Europe and the East, worked in state offices in many States. Now the port is used only for the mooring of private ships and yachts.

The City of Larnaca (Cyprus) also considered the birthplace of the ancient Greek philosopher Zeno of Kition, who became the founder of the school of stoicism in the Greek capital Athens.

Popular attractions in Paphos that are included in many tours in Cyprus:

• Hala Sultan Tekke;
• Church of St. Lazarus;
• Salt lake
• The ancient Neolithic settlement of Choirokoitia (7-4 BC), opened in 1998 – consists of a set of round limestone buildings of different purposes;
• Kamares aqueduct, built in the 18th century to provide water to the city.

Muslim Shrine

On the shore of Larnaca from the salt lake is the Muslim Shrine-the mosque of Hala Sultan Tekke, built in 1816, it is Known that here are buried Umm Haram, a relative of the prophet Muhammad. To go to all tourist.

In 649, when the Arab forces came to the land, Umm Haram came along with them and preached Islam among the locals. On the future site of a mosque its a mule stumbled, the woman fell and crashed against the rocks. She was buried with honor on the shores of salt lake and found a boulder weighing 15 tons, which according to legend was brought by the angels.

Interestingly, the mosque is considered sacred not only by Muslims but also the local Christians who come here to pray for healing. It is believed that it helps the recovery of people from disease.

Hala Sultan Tekke — a large complex including a mosque, minaret and mausoleum, cemetery, dwellings for travelling dervishes. Guest buildings are designed separately for men and women and areaway.

To get to the mosque by car on the road B4 from Larnaca, just 5 km away. the Entrance is free, you can listen to interesting stories of the guide. In the days of Muslim holidays there are worship services during which tourists can prevent the believers. Before entering definitely need to take off their shoes and wash feet in the fountain, women are advised to cover their heads.

Church of Saint Lazarus

According to legend, Paphos was ordained Bishop of Kition, St. Lazaros, who fled from Bethany from the Jewish high priests. Under his direction was erected the first Church, where services were held. After the death of Lazarus was buried here and the Church was renamed the Larnax. In its place in 890 by the Byzantine Emperor Leo IV was erected a new Church, which later was several times destroyed and rebuilt. After the power of the Turks in 1589, it was bought by the Orthodox Church in 1750, construction of an open gallery, and in 1857 — the bell tower for 4 tiers.

In the XVIII century the Church was decorated with new wooden carved iconostasis and icons of the 120 who were doing master Hadji Savvas Taliadoros.

During the restoration in the 70-ies of XX century under the altar was found a stone tomb with the relics of St. Lazarus, now they are exposed in a silver Shrine inside the temple. The building of the Church consists of three naves and has 3 domes.

To get to the Church from Larnaca airport by bus No. 446.

Beaches of Larnaca

Tourists coming to Larnaca, you may interest not only to Larnaca salt lake and excursions, and local sandy beaches. The sea here is clean and small, the hotels and the area for the tourists are located to the East of the town and are cheaper compared to the popular resorts of Cyprus.

The Main beaches:

• McKenzie — is near old airport in Cyprus, has a large area, well equipped with sun loungers, there are bars and cafes, but to reach either by taxi, or independently;
• Restaurants — located in the heart of the city, separated only by the beautiful palm alley. It is a favorite place for festivals and recreation for tourists and locals. You can get here by regular buses;
• Limassol — the epicenter of tourist activities, get here on the same road, along which there are hotels of Larnaca of different levels.

How to reach Larnaca and lake

Salt lake and other sights of Larnaca tourists can visit in the composition of excursions around Cyprus or on your own, arriving here by car. Of the reservoir along specially laid paths for visitors with benches. Resting on them, the tourists will get a lot of impressions from the view of the lake, flying or catching of birds, natural landscapes, particularly beautiful at sunset.

The lake can be reached by car, leaving from Larnaca towards the airport on the highway B4, or taxi, because public transport doesn't arrives.