Ayia Napa
Encyclopedia
Ayia Napa is a resort
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
, Rimini
and Mykonos
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
-era monastery
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
.
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
by Turkish
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Ayia Napa attracts a large number of tourists
and features a number of bathing beach
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
, canoeing
, scuba diving
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
and a dragon
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
, opera
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
, Rimini
and Mykonos
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
-era monastery
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
.
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
by Turkish
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Ayia Napa attracts a large number of tourists
and features a number of bathing beach
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
, canoeing
, scuba diving
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
and a dragon
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
, opera
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
, Rimini
and Mykonos
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
-era monastery
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
.
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
by Turkish
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Ayia Napa attracts a large number of tourists
and features a number of bathing beach
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
, canoeing
, scuba diving
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
and a dragon
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
, opera
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
, Rimini
and Mykonos
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
-era monastery
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
.
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
by Turkish
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Ayia Napa attracts a large number of tourists
and features a number of bathing beach
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
, canoeing
, scuba diving
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
and a dragon
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
, opera
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
, Rimini
and Mykonos
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
-era monastery
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
.
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
by Turkish
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Ayia Napa attracts a large number of tourists
and features a number of bathing beach
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
, canoeing
, scuba diving
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
and a dragon
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
, opera
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
, Rimini
and Mykonos
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
-era monastery
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
.
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
by Turkish
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Ayia Napa attracts a large number of tourists
and features a number of bathing beach
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
, canoeing
, scuba diving
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
and a dragon
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
, opera
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
, Rimini
and Mykonos
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
-era monastery
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
.
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
by Turkish
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Ayia Napa attracts a large number of tourists
and features a number of bathing beach
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
, canoeing
, scuba diving
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
and a dragon
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
, opera
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
, Rimini
and Mykonos
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
-era monastery
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
.
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
by Turkish
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Ayia Napa attracts a large number of tourists
and features a number of bathing beach
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
, canoeing
, scuba diving
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
and a dragon
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
, opera
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
, Rimini
and Mykonos
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
-era monastery
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
.
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
by Turkish
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Ayia Napa attracts a large number of tourists
and features a number of bathing beach
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
, canoeing
, scuba diving
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
and a dragon
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
, opera
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
File:Port of Agia Napa.jpg|
File:View of Agia Napa beach located in vicinity of Nelia Beach Hotel.jpg|
File:Hotel in Agia Napa road in the summer Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Road next to a typical hotel during the evening
File:Paradise Ayia Napa street in the early afternoon july Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Main Street Agia Napa
File:Famous Agia Napa loona park in the early afternoon Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Ayia Napa amusement park from the road
File:Сyprus Agia-Napa Amusement Park OM79.JPG|Ayia Napa amusement park
File:Theme The Flintstones cafeteria and bar in Agia Napa Republic of Cyprus.jpg|The Flintstones
theme restaurant
File:Cyprus Agia-Napa Restaurant OM71.JPG|Wild West and Russian restaurants
File:Cyprus Agia-Napa Fountain OM104.JPG|Fountain in Ayia Napa
File:Agia Napa church.jpg|Church in central Ayia Napa
File:Church at Konnos Bay.JPG|A church at the south shore of Konnos Bay
File:Thekla-Katakomben.jpg|The catacomb of Agia Thekla
Ayia Napa is a resort
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
, Rimini
and Mykonos
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
-era monastery
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
.
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
by Turkish
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Ayia Napa attracts a large number of tourists
and features a number of bathing beach
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
, canoeing
, scuba diving
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
and a dragon
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
, opera
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.Ayia hopes for Guinness record
File:Port of Agia Napa.jpg|
File:View of Agia Napa beach located in vicinity of Nelia Beach Hotel.jpg|
File:Hotel in Agia Napa road in the summer Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Road next to a typical hotel during the evening
File:Paradise Ayia Napa street in the early afternoon july Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Main Street Agia Napa
File:Famous Agia Napa loona park in the early afternoon Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Ayia Napa amusement park from the road
File:Сyprus Agia-Napa Amusement Park OM79.JPG|Ayia Napa amusement park
File:Theme The Flintstones cafeteria and bar in Agia Napa Republic of Cyprus.jpg|The Flintstones
theme restaurant
File:Cyprus Agia-Napa Restaurant OM71.JPG|Wild West and Russian restaurants
File:Cyprus Agia-Napa Fountain OM104.JPG|Fountain in Ayia Napa
File:Agia Napa church.jpg|Church in central Ayia Napa
File:Church at Konnos Bay.JPG|A church at the south shore of Konnos Bay
File:Thekla-Katakomben.jpg|The catacomb of Agia Thekla
Ayia Napa is a resort
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
, Rimini
and Mykonos
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
-era monastery
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
.
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
by Turkish
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Ayia Napa attracts a large number of tourists
and features a number of bathing beach
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
, canoeing
, scuba diving
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
and a dragon
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
, opera
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.Ayia hopes for Guinness record
File:Port of Agia Napa.jpg|
File:View of Agia Napa beach located in vicinity of Nelia Beach Hotel.jpg|
File:Hotel in Agia Napa road in the summer Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Road next to a typical hotel during the evening
File:Paradise Ayia Napa street in the early afternoon july Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Main Street Agia Napa
File:Famous Agia Napa loona park in the early afternoon Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Ayia Napa amusement park from the road
File:Сyprus Agia-Napa Amusement Park OM79.JPG|Ayia Napa amusement park
File:Theme The Flintstones cafeteria and bar in Agia Napa Republic of Cyprus.jpg|The Flintstones
theme restaurant
File:Cyprus Agia-Napa Restaurant OM71.JPG|Wild West and Russian restaurants
File:Cyprus Agia-Napa Fountain OM104.JPG|Fountain in Ayia Napa
File:Agia Napa church.jpg|Church in central Ayia Napa
File:Church at Konnos Bay.JPG|A church at the south shore of Konnos Bay
File:Thekla-Katakomben.jpg|The catacomb of Agia Theklahttp://www.agianapa.org.cy/%28S%28uj0dbv45ebnrmabaga4ebw45%29%29/AyiaNapa/StaticPage2.aspx?pagenb=19650
Resort
A resort is a place used for relaxation or recreation, attracting visitors for holidays or vacations. Resorts are places, towns or sometimes commercial establishment operated by a single company....
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
Cyprus
Cyprus , officially the Republic of Cyprus , is a Eurasian island country, member of the European Union, in the Eastern Mediterranean, east of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and north of Egypt. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.The earliest known human activity on the...
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
Ibiza
Ibiza or Eivissa is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea 79 km off the coast of the city of Valencia in Spain. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. With Formentera, it is one of the two Pine Islands or Pityuses. Its largest cities are Ibiza...
, Rimini
Rimini
Rimini is a medium-sized city of 142,579 inhabitants in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, and capital city of the Province of Rimini. It is located on the Adriatic Sea, on the coast between the rivers Marecchia and Ausa...
and Mykonos
Mykonos
Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans an area of and rises to an elevation of at its highest point. There are 9,320 inhabitants most of whom live in the largest town, Mykonos, which lies on the west coast. The town is also...
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
Grime (music)
Grime is a style of music that emerged from Bow, East London, England in the early 2000s, primarily as a development of UK garage, dancehall, and hip hop...
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
Etymology
The name Ayia Napa is derived from a VenetianRepublic of Venice
The Republic of Venice or Venetian Republic was a state originating from the city of Venice in Northeastern Italy. It existed for over a millennium, from the late 7th century until 1797. It was formally known as the Most Serene Republic of Venice and is often referred to as La Serenissima, in...
-era monastery
Monastery
Monastery denotes the building, or complex of buildings, that houses a room reserved for prayer as well as the domestic quarters and workplace of monastics, whether monks or nuns, and whether living in community or alone .Monasteries may vary greatly in size – a small dwelling accommodating only...
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
Nightclub
A nightclub is an entertainment venue which usually operates late into the night...
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
History
According to local legend, the now renowned original icon was accidentally discovered by a hunter in hot pursuit of his prey. Upon discovery, the icon of the Virgin Mary was called Virgin Mary of Napa, eventually shortened and now known as Ayia Napa. The present monastery, built in 1500, was built around the cave, in honour of the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. According to local tradition, until 1790 no-one lived within close vicinity of Ayia Napa. The first inhabitants who actually appeared and settled were twenty men from Salonica, GreeceGreece
Greece , officially the Hellenic Republic , and historically Hellas or the Republic of Greece in English, is a country in southeastern Europe....
.
Geography
Geographically, Ayia Napa lies near Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
Famagusta
Famagusta is a city on the east coast of Cyprus and is capital of the Famagusta District. It is located east of Nicosia, and possesses the deepest harbour of the island.-Name:...
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
Famagusta District
Famagusta District is one of the six districts of Cyprus. Its main town is the island's most important port, Famagusta. The city of Famagusta is currently controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus ....
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
Turkish invasion of Cyprus
The Turkish invasion of Cyprus, launched on 20 July 1974, was a Turkish military invasion in response to a Greek military junta backed coup in Cyprus...
by Turkish
Turkey
Turkey , known officially as the Republic of Turkey , is a Eurasian country located in Western Asia and in East Thrace in Southeastern Europe...
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Tourism
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
and features a number of bathing beach
Beach
A beach is a geological landform along the shoreline of an ocean, sea, lake or river. It usually consists of loose particles which are often composed of rock, such as sand, gravel, shingle, pebbles or cobblestones...
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
Windsurfing
Windsurfing or sailboarding is a surface water sport that combines elements of surfing and sailing. It consists of a board usually two to four metres long, powered by the orthogonal effect of the wind on a sail. The rig is connected to the board by a free-rotating universal joint and comprises a...
, canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing is an outdoor activity that involves a special kind of canoe.Open canoes may be 'poled' , sailed, 'lined and tracked' or even 'gunnel-bobbed'....
, scuba diving
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
Nissi beach
Nissi beach, is a well-known sandy beach in the resort of Ayia Napa, Cyprus.The sandy beach stretches for 500m and the waters are clean enough for the beach to have been awarded blue flag designation. The beach which runs the length of its own cove, takes its name from the small islet located...
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
Blue Flag beach
The Blue Flag is a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education that a beach or marina meets its stringent standards.The Blue Flag is a trademark owned by FEE which is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation consisting of 65 organisations in 60 member countries in Europe,...
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
- the most Blue Flags per capita in the world
- the most dense concentration of Blue Flag Beaches
- the most Blue Flag beaches and per coastline length in the world.
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
Cape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
Sea monster
In Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
Ayia Napa sea monster
The Ayia Napa Sea Monster is a cryptid, claimed to inhabit the coast off of Ayia Napa in Cyprus, a popular tourist resort on the Mediterranean. Most sightings occur around Cape Greco . It is known by the local fishermen as "To Filiko Teras", which translates as "The Friendly Monster"...
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
Porpoise
Porpoises are small cetaceans of the family Phocoenidae; they are related to whales and dolphins. They are distinct from dolphins, although the word "porpoise" has been used to refer to any small dolphin, especially by sailors and fishermen...
and a dragon
Dragon
A dragon is a legendary creature, typically with serpentine or reptilian traits, that feature in the myths of many cultures. There are two distinct cultural traditions of dragons: the European dragon, derived from European folk traditions and ultimately related to Greek and Middle Eastern...
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
Shopping
Cyprus is known for its handicrafts and boutiques, while in Ayia Napa, the shops are interspersed with outlets selling designer sunglasses and watches.Monastery
Ayia Napa Monastery is the best known landmark of the Agia Napa area. It has a charm that represents a time when Agia Napa was a sleepy fishing village. It seems that in ancient times, the location where the monastery and the village exists today, was covered by thick forest, visited only by hunters from the neighbouring villages.Museums and ruins
The town contains a number of museums. The Tornaritis - Pierides Museum of Marine Life was founded in June 1992 in Agia Napa and is located at the lower level of the Town hall. It exhibits past and present marine life, scientifically classified. Its main purpose is to show the marine fauna of Cyprus and the MediterraneanMediterranean Sea
The Mediterranean Sea is a sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by the Mediterranean region and almost completely enclosed by land: on the north by Anatolia and Europe, on the south by North Africa, and on the east by the Levant...
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
Thalassa
Thalassa may refer to:* Thalassa , a primordial Greek sea goddess* Thalassa , a moon of the planet Neptune* Thalassa, a fictional planet in Arthur C...
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
Greeks
The Greeks, also known as the Hellenes , are a nation and ethnic group native to Greece, Cyprus and neighboring regions. They also form a significant diaspora, with Greek communities established around the world....
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
Festival
The Ayia Napa Festival was first held in September 1985 and has been established as an annual event since. It takes place in Sepheris Square in Ayia Napa Monastery. The festivities reflect the historic, cultural and agricultural traditions of Ayia Napa and Cyprus as a whole. The programme includes theatrical performancesTheatre
Theatre is a collaborative form of fine art that uses live performers to present the experience of a real or imagined event before a live audience in a specific place. The performers may communicate this experience to the audience through combinations of gesture, speech, song, music or dance...
, opera
Opera
Opera is an art form in which singers and musicians perform a dramatic work combining text and musical score, usually in a theatrical setting. Opera incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre, such as acting, scenery, and costumes and sometimes includes dance...
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
Ayia Napa Youth Festival
The Ayia Napa Youth Festival was established in 2010 when the Ayia Napa youth council decided to organise a festival similar to the large music festivals of Europe, combining activities and music. The festival is based on several principles such as free entrance, the headliners to be chosen by the public,a charity goal, a social responsibility message attached to it; all styles of music are welcome. At the first festival which took place at the harbour square of Ayia Napa more than 10,000 people visited the festival during the three-day period with bands such as the Greek reggaeReggae
Reggae is a music genre first developed in Jamaica in the late 1960s. While sometimes used in a broader sense to refer to most types of Jamaican music, the term reggae more properly denotes a particular music style that originated following on the development of ska and rocksteady.Reggae is based...
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
WaterWorld themed Waterpark
The Ayia Napa Waterworld themed Waterpark is the biggest waterpark in Europe. Waterworld Themed Waterpark in Ayia Napa has received major international recognition for marketing and Innovation from a spectrum of the Waterpark associations around the globe winning over 25 prestigious awards to date. In our Greek themed world you will find upgraded attractions to entertain children and adults alike, extensive relaxation areas for parents and more playground areas for the kids, ensuring they have a great holiday and a memorable stay in Ayia Napa, Cyprus.Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
World record
Following the proposal of Yiannis Karousos the President of the Ayia Napa Tourism Committee, on September 16, 2007, the world's longest chain of syrtaki dancers (a traditional Greek dance) danced to Zorba the GreekZorba the Greek
Zorba the Greek is a 1964 film based on the novel Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis. The film was directed by Cypriot Michael Cacoyannis and the title character was played by Anthony Quinn...
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
Gallery
Ayia Napa is a resortResort
A resort is a place used for relaxation or recreation, attracting visitors for holidays or vacations. Resorts are places, towns or sometimes commercial establishment operated by a single company....
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
Cyprus
Cyprus , officially the Republic of Cyprus , is a Eurasian island country, member of the European Union, in the Eastern Mediterranean, east of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and north of Egypt. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.The earliest known human activity on the...
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
Ibiza
Ibiza or Eivissa is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea 79 km off the coast of the city of Valencia in Spain. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. With Formentera, it is one of the two Pine Islands or Pityuses. Its largest cities are Ibiza...
, Rimini
Rimini
Rimini is a medium-sized city of 142,579 inhabitants in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, and capital city of the Province of Rimini. It is located on the Adriatic Sea, on the coast between the rivers Marecchia and Ausa...
and Mykonos
Mykonos
Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans an area of and rises to an elevation of at its highest point. There are 9,320 inhabitants most of whom live in the largest town, Mykonos, which lies on the west coast. The town is also...
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
Grime (music)
Grime is a style of music that emerged from Bow, East London, England in the early 2000s, primarily as a development of UK garage, dancehall, and hip hop...
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
Etymology
The name Ayia Napa is derived from a VenetianRepublic of Venice
The Republic of Venice or Venetian Republic was a state originating from the city of Venice in Northeastern Italy. It existed for over a millennium, from the late 7th century until 1797. It was formally known as the Most Serene Republic of Venice and is often referred to as La Serenissima, in...
-era monastery
Monastery
Monastery denotes the building, or complex of buildings, that houses a room reserved for prayer as well as the domestic quarters and workplace of monastics, whether monks or nuns, and whether living in community or alone .Monasteries may vary greatly in size – a small dwelling accommodating only...
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
Nightclub
A nightclub is an entertainment venue which usually operates late into the night...
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
History
According to local legend, the now renowned original icon was accidentally discovered by a hunter in hot pursuit of his prey. Upon discovery, the icon of the Virgin Mary was called Virgin Mary of Napa, eventually shortened and now known as Ayia Napa. The present monastery, built in 1500, was built around the cave, in honour of the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. According to local tradition, until 1790 no-one lived within close vicinity of Ayia Napa. The first inhabitants who actually appeared and settled were twenty men from Salonica, GreeceGreece
Greece , officially the Hellenic Republic , and historically Hellas or the Republic of Greece in English, is a country in southeastern Europe....
.
Geography
Geographically, Ayia Napa lies near Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
Famagusta
Famagusta is a city on the east coast of Cyprus and is capital of the Famagusta District. It is located east of Nicosia, and possesses the deepest harbour of the island.-Name:...
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
Famagusta District
Famagusta District is one of the six districts of Cyprus. Its main town is the island's most important port, Famagusta. The city of Famagusta is currently controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus ....
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
Turkish invasion of Cyprus
The Turkish invasion of Cyprus, launched on 20 July 1974, was a Turkish military invasion in response to a Greek military junta backed coup in Cyprus...
by Turkish
Turkey
Turkey , known officially as the Republic of Turkey , is a Eurasian country located in Western Asia and in East Thrace in Southeastern Europe...
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Tourism
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
and features a number of bathing beach
Beach
A beach is a geological landform along the shoreline of an ocean, sea, lake or river. It usually consists of loose particles which are often composed of rock, such as sand, gravel, shingle, pebbles or cobblestones...
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
Windsurfing
Windsurfing or sailboarding is a surface water sport that combines elements of surfing and sailing. It consists of a board usually two to four metres long, powered by the orthogonal effect of the wind on a sail. The rig is connected to the board by a free-rotating universal joint and comprises a...
, canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing is an outdoor activity that involves a special kind of canoe.Open canoes may be 'poled' , sailed, 'lined and tracked' or even 'gunnel-bobbed'....
, scuba diving
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
Nissi beach
Nissi beach, is a well-known sandy beach in the resort of Ayia Napa, Cyprus.The sandy beach stretches for 500m and the waters are clean enough for the beach to have been awarded blue flag designation. The beach which runs the length of its own cove, takes its name from the small islet located...
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
Blue Flag beach
The Blue Flag is a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education that a beach or marina meets its stringent standards.The Blue Flag is a trademark owned by FEE which is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation consisting of 65 organisations in 60 member countries in Europe,...
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
- the most Blue Flags per capita in the world
- the most dense concentration of Blue Flag Beaches
- the most Blue Flag beaches and per coastline length in the world.
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
Cape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
Sea monster
In Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
Ayia Napa sea monster
The Ayia Napa Sea Monster is a cryptid, claimed to inhabit the coast off of Ayia Napa in Cyprus, a popular tourist resort on the Mediterranean. Most sightings occur around Cape Greco . It is known by the local fishermen as "To Filiko Teras", which translates as "The Friendly Monster"...
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
Porpoise
Porpoises are small cetaceans of the family Phocoenidae; they are related to whales and dolphins. They are distinct from dolphins, although the word "porpoise" has been used to refer to any small dolphin, especially by sailors and fishermen...
and a dragon
Dragon
A dragon is a legendary creature, typically with serpentine or reptilian traits, that feature in the myths of many cultures. There are two distinct cultural traditions of dragons: the European dragon, derived from European folk traditions and ultimately related to Greek and Middle Eastern...
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
Shopping
Cyprus is known for its handicrafts and boutiques, while in Ayia Napa, the shops are interspersed with outlets selling designer sunglasses and watches.Monastery
Ayia Napa Monastery is the best known landmark of the Agia Napa area. It has a charm that represents a time when Agia Napa was a sleepy fishing village. It seems that in ancient times, the location where the monastery and the village exists today, was covered by thick forest, visited only by hunters from the neighbouring villages.Museums and ruins
The town contains a number of museums. The Tornaritis - Pierides Museum of Marine Life was founded in June 1992 in Agia Napa and is located at the lower level of the Town hall. It exhibits past and present marine life, scientifically classified. Its main purpose is to show the marine fauna of Cyprus and the MediterraneanMediterranean Sea
The Mediterranean Sea is a sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by the Mediterranean region and almost completely enclosed by land: on the north by Anatolia and Europe, on the south by North Africa, and on the east by the Levant...
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
Thalassa
Thalassa may refer to:* Thalassa , a primordial Greek sea goddess* Thalassa , a moon of the planet Neptune* Thalassa, a fictional planet in Arthur C...
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
Greeks
The Greeks, also known as the Hellenes , are a nation and ethnic group native to Greece, Cyprus and neighboring regions. They also form a significant diaspora, with Greek communities established around the world....
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
Festival
The Ayia Napa Festival was first held in September 1985 and has been established as an annual event since. It takes place in Sepheris Square in Ayia Napa Monastery. The festivities reflect the historic, cultural and agricultural traditions of Ayia Napa and Cyprus as a whole. The programme includes theatrical performancesTheatre
Theatre is a collaborative form of fine art that uses live performers to present the experience of a real or imagined event before a live audience in a specific place. The performers may communicate this experience to the audience through combinations of gesture, speech, song, music or dance...
, opera
Opera
Opera is an art form in which singers and musicians perform a dramatic work combining text and musical score, usually in a theatrical setting. Opera incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre, such as acting, scenery, and costumes and sometimes includes dance...
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
Ayia Napa Youth Festival
The Ayia Napa Youth Festival was established in 2010 when the Ayia Napa youth council decided to organise a festival similar to the large music festivals of Europe, combining activities and music. The festival is based on several principles such as free entrance, the headliners to be chosen by the public,a charity goal, a social responsibility message attached to it; all styles of music are welcome. At the first festival which took place at the harbour square of Ayia Napa more than 10,000 people visited the festival during the three-day period with bands such as the Greek reggaeReggae
Reggae is a music genre first developed in Jamaica in the late 1960s. While sometimes used in a broader sense to refer to most types of Jamaican music, the term reggae more properly denotes a particular music style that originated following on the development of ska and rocksteady.Reggae is based...
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
WaterWorld themed Waterpark
The Ayia Napa Waterworld themed Waterpark is the biggest waterpark in Europe. Waterworld Themed Waterpark in Ayia Napa has received major international recognition for marketing and Innovation from a spectrum of the Waterpark associations around the globe winning over 25 prestigious awards to date. In our Greek themed world you will find upgraded attractions to entertain children and adults alike, extensive relaxation areas for parents and more playground areas for the kids, ensuring they have a great holiday and a memorable stay in Ayia Napa, Cyprus.Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
World record
Following the proposal of Yiannis Karousos the President of the Ayia Napa Tourism Committee, on September 16, 2007, the world's longest chain of syrtaki dancers (a traditional Greek dance) danced to Zorba the GreekZorba the Greek
Zorba the Greek is a 1964 film based on the novel Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis. The film was directed by Cypriot Michael Cacoyannis and the title character was played by Anthony Quinn...
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
Gallery
Ayia Napa is a resortResort
A resort is a place used for relaxation or recreation, attracting visitors for holidays or vacations. Resorts are places, towns or sometimes commercial establishment operated by a single company....
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
Cyprus
Cyprus , officially the Republic of Cyprus , is a Eurasian island country, member of the European Union, in the Eastern Mediterranean, east of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and north of Egypt. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.The earliest known human activity on the...
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
Ibiza
Ibiza or Eivissa is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea 79 km off the coast of the city of Valencia in Spain. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. With Formentera, it is one of the two Pine Islands or Pityuses. Its largest cities are Ibiza...
, Rimini
Rimini
Rimini is a medium-sized city of 142,579 inhabitants in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, and capital city of the Province of Rimini. It is located on the Adriatic Sea, on the coast between the rivers Marecchia and Ausa...
and Mykonos
Mykonos
Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans an area of and rises to an elevation of at its highest point. There are 9,320 inhabitants most of whom live in the largest town, Mykonos, which lies on the west coast. The town is also...
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
Grime (music)
Grime is a style of music that emerged from Bow, East London, England in the early 2000s, primarily as a development of UK garage, dancehall, and hip hop...
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
Etymology
The name Ayia Napa is derived from a VenetianRepublic of Venice
The Republic of Venice or Venetian Republic was a state originating from the city of Venice in Northeastern Italy. It existed for over a millennium, from the late 7th century until 1797. It was formally known as the Most Serene Republic of Venice and is often referred to as La Serenissima, in...
-era monastery
Monastery
Monastery denotes the building, or complex of buildings, that houses a room reserved for prayer as well as the domestic quarters and workplace of monastics, whether monks or nuns, and whether living in community or alone .Monasteries may vary greatly in size – a small dwelling accommodating only...
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
Nightclub
A nightclub is an entertainment venue which usually operates late into the night...
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
History
According to local legend, the now renowned original icon was accidentally discovered by a hunter in hot pursuit of his prey. Upon discovery, the icon of the Virgin Mary was called Virgin Mary of Napa, eventually shortened and now known as Ayia Napa. The present monastery, built in 1500, was built around the cave, in honour of the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. According to local tradition, until 1790 no-one lived within close vicinity of Ayia Napa. The first inhabitants who actually appeared and settled were twenty men from Salonica, GreeceGreece
Greece , officially the Hellenic Republic , and historically Hellas or the Republic of Greece in English, is a country in southeastern Europe....
.
Geography
Geographically, Ayia Napa lies near Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
Famagusta
Famagusta is a city on the east coast of Cyprus and is capital of the Famagusta District. It is located east of Nicosia, and possesses the deepest harbour of the island.-Name:...
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
Famagusta District
Famagusta District is one of the six districts of Cyprus. Its main town is the island's most important port, Famagusta. The city of Famagusta is currently controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus ....
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
Turkish invasion of Cyprus
The Turkish invasion of Cyprus, launched on 20 July 1974, was a Turkish military invasion in response to a Greek military junta backed coup in Cyprus...
by Turkish
Turkey
Turkey , known officially as the Republic of Turkey , is a Eurasian country located in Western Asia and in East Thrace in Southeastern Europe...
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Tourism
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
and features a number of bathing beach
Beach
A beach is a geological landform along the shoreline of an ocean, sea, lake or river. It usually consists of loose particles which are often composed of rock, such as sand, gravel, shingle, pebbles or cobblestones...
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
Windsurfing
Windsurfing or sailboarding is a surface water sport that combines elements of surfing and sailing. It consists of a board usually two to four metres long, powered by the orthogonal effect of the wind on a sail. The rig is connected to the board by a free-rotating universal joint and comprises a...
, canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing is an outdoor activity that involves a special kind of canoe.Open canoes may be 'poled' , sailed, 'lined and tracked' or even 'gunnel-bobbed'....
, scuba diving
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
Nissi beach
Nissi beach, is a well-known sandy beach in the resort of Ayia Napa, Cyprus.The sandy beach stretches for 500m and the waters are clean enough for the beach to have been awarded blue flag designation. The beach which runs the length of its own cove, takes its name from the small islet located...
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
Blue Flag beach
The Blue Flag is a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education that a beach or marina meets its stringent standards.The Blue Flag is a trademark owned by FEE which is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation consisting of 65 organisations in 60 member countries in Europe,...
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
- the most Blue Flags per capita in the world
- the most dense concentration of Blue Flag Beaches
- the most Blue Flag beaches and per coastline length in the world.
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
Cape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
Sea monster
In Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
Ayia Napa sea monster
The Ayia Napa Sea Monster is a cryptid, claimed to inhabit the coast off of Ayia Napa in Cyprus, a popular tourist resort on the Mediterranean. Most sightings occur around Cape Greco . It is known by the local fishermen as "To Filiko Teras", which translates as "The Friendly Monster"...
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
Porpoise
Porpoises are small cetaceans of the family Phocoenidae; they are related to whales and dolphins. They are distinct from dolphins, although the word "porpoise" has been used to refer to any small dolphin, especially by sailors and fishermen...
and a dragon
Dragon
A dragon is a legendary creature, typically with serpentine or reptilian traits, that feature in the myths of many cultures. There are two distinct cultural traditions of dragons: the European dragon, derived from European folk traditions and ultimately related to Greek and Middle Eastern...
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
Shopping
Cyprus is known for its handicrafts and boutiques, while in Ayia Napa, the shops are interspersed with outlets selling designer sunglasses and watches.Monastery
Ayia Napa Monastery is the best known landmark of the Agia Napa area. It has a charm that represents a time when Agia Napa was a sleepy fishing village. It seems that in ancient times, the location where the monastery and the village exists today, was covered by thick forest, visited only by hunters from the neighbouring villages.Museums and ruins
The town contains a number of museums. The Tornaritis - Pierides Museum of Marine Life was founded in June 1992 in Agia Napa and is located at the lower level of the Town hall. It exhibits past and present marine life, scientifically classified. Its main purpose is to show the marine fauna of Cyprus and the MediterraneanMediterranean Sea
The Mediterranean Sea is a sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by the Mediterranean region and almost completely enclosed by land: on the north by Anatolia and Europe, on the south by North Africa, and on the east by the Levant...
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
Thalassa
Thalassa may refer to:* Thalassa , a primordial Greek sea goddess* Thalassa , a moon of the planet Neptune* Thalassa, a fictional planet in Arthur C...
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
Greeks
The Greeks, also known as the Hellenes , are a nation and ethnic group native to Greece, Cyprus and neighboring regions. They also form a significant diaspora, with Greek communities established around the world....
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
Festival
The Ayia Napa Festival was first held in September 1985 and has been established as an annual event since. It takes place in Sepheris Square in Ayia Napa Monastery. The festivities reflect the historic, cultural and agricultural traditions of Ayia Napa and Cyprus as a whole. The programme includes theatrical performancesTheatre
Theatre is a collaborative form of fine art that uses live performers to present the experience of a real or imagined event before a live audience in a specific place. The performers may communicate this experience to the audience through combinations of gesture, speech, song, music or dance...
, opera
Opera
Opera is an art form in which singers and musicians perform a dramatic work combining text and musical score, usually in a theatrical setting. Opera incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre, such as acting, scenery, and costumes and sometimes includes dance...
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
Ayia Napa Youth Festival
The Ayia Napa Youth Festival was established in 2010 when the Ayia Napa youth council decided to organise a festival similar to the large music festivals of Europe, combining activities and music. The festival is based on several principles such as free entrance, the headliners to be chosen by the public,a charity goal, a social responsibility message attached to it; all styles of music are welcome. At the first festival which took place at the harbour square of Ayia Napa more than 10,000 people visited the festival during the three-day period with bands such as the Greek reggaeReggae
Reggae is a music genre first developed in Jamaica in the late 1960s. While sometimes used in a broader sense to refer to most types of Jamaican music, the term reggae more properly denotes a particular music style that originated following on the development of ska and rocksteady.Reggae is based...
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
WaterWorld themed Waterpark
The Ayia Napa Waterworld themed Waterpark is the biggest waterpark in Europe. Waterworld Themed Waterpark in Ayia Napa has received major international recognition for marketing and Innovation from a spectrum of the Waterpark associations around the globe winning over 25 prestigious awards to date. In our Greek themed world you will find upgraded attractions to entertain children and adults alike, extensive relaxation areas for parents and more playground areas for the kids, ensuring they have a great holiday and a memorable stay in Ayia Napa, Cyprus.Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
World record
Following the proposal of Yiannis Karousos the President of the Ayia Napa Tourism Committee, on September 16, 2007, the world's longest chain of syrtaki dancers (a traditional Greek dance) danced to Zorba the GreekZorba the Greek
Zorba the Greek is a 1964 film based on the novel Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis. The film was directed by Cypriot Michael Cacoyannis and the title character was played by Anthony Quinn...
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
Gallery
Ayia Napa is a resortResort
A resort is a place used for relaxation or recreation, attracting visitors for holidays or vacations. Resorts are places, towns or sometimes commercial establishment operated by a single company....
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
Cyprus
Cyprus , officially the Republic of Cyprus , is a Eurasian island country, member of the European Union, in the Eastern Mediterranean, east of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and north of Egypt. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.The earliest known human activity on the...
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
Ibiza
Ibiza or Eivissa is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea 79 km off the coast of the city of Valencia in Spain. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. With Formentera, it is one of the two Pine Islands or Pityuses. Its largest cities are Ibiza...
, Rimini
Rimini
Rimini is a medium-sized city of 142,579 inhabitants in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, and capital city of the Province of Rimini. It is located on the Adriatic Sea, on the coast between the rivers Marecchia and Ausa...
and Mykonos
Mykonos
Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans an area of and rises to an elevation of at its highest point. There are 9,320 inhabitants most of whom live in the largest town, Mykonos, which lies on the west coast. The town is also...
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
Grime (music)
Grime is a style of music that emerged from Bow, East London, England in the early 2000s, primarily as a development of UK garage, dancehall, and hip hop...
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
Etymology
The name Ayia Napa is derived from a VenetianRepublic of Venice
The Republic of Venice or Venetian Republic was a state originating from the city of Venice in Northeastern Italy. It existed for over a millennium, from the late 7th century until 1797. It was formally known as the Most Serene Republic of Venice and is often referred to as La Serenissima, in...
-era monastery
Monastery
Monastery denotes the building, or complex of buildings, that houses a room reserved for prayer as well as the domestic quarters and workplace of monastics, whether monks or nuns, and whether living in community or alone .Monasteries may vary greatly in size – a small dwelling accommodating only...
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
Nightclub
A nightclub is an entertainment venue which usually operates late into the night...
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
History
According to local legend, the now renowned original icon was accidentally discovered by a hunter in hot pursuit of his prey. Upon discovery, the icon of the Virgin Mary was called Virgin Mary of Napa, eventually shortened and now known as Ayia Napa. The present monastery, built in 1500, was built around the cave, in honour of the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. According to local tradition, until 1790 no-one lived within close vicinity of Ayia Napa. The first inhabitants who actually appeared and settled were twenty men from Salonica, GreeceGreece
Greece , officially the Hellenic Republic , and historically Hellas or the Republic of Greece in English, is a country in southeastern Europe....
.
Geography
Geographically, Ayia Napa lies near Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
Famagusta
Famagusta is a city on the east coast of Cyprus and is capital of the Famagusta District. It is located east of Nicosia, and possesses the deepest harbour of the island.-Name:...
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
Famagusta District
Famagusta District is one of the six districts of Cyprus. Its main town is the island's most important port, Famagusta. The city of Famagusta is currently controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus ....
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
Turkish invasion of Cyprus
The Turkish invasion of Cyprus, launched on 20 July 1974, was a Turkish military invasion in response to a Greek military junta backed coup in Cyprus...
by Turkish
Turkey
Turkey , known officially as the Republic of Turkey , is a Eurasian country located in Western Asia and in East Thrace in Southeastern Europe...
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Tourism
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
and features a number of bathing beach
Beach
A beach is a geological landform along the shoreline of an ocean, sea, lake or river. It usually consists of loose particles which are often composed of rock, such as sand, gravel, shingle, pebbles or cobblestones...
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
Windsurfing
Windsurfing or sailboarding is a surface water sport that combines elements of surfing and sailing. It consists of a board usually two to four metres long, powered by the orthogonal effect of the wind on a sail. The rig is connected to the board by a free-rotating universal joint and comprises a...
, canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing is an outdoor activity that involves a special kind of canoe.Open canoes may be 'poled' , sailed, 'lined and tracked' or even 'gunnel-bobbed'....
, scuba diving
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
Nissi beach
Nissi beach, is a well-known sandy beach in the resort of Ayia Napa, Cyprus.The sandy beach stretches for 500m and the waters are clean enough for the beach to have been awarded blue flag designation. The beach which runs the length of its own cove, takes its name from the small islet located...
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
Blue Flag beach
The Blue Flag is a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education that a beach or marina meets its stringent standards.The Blue Flag is a trademark owned by FEE which is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation consisting of 65 organisations in 60 member countries in Europe,...
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
- the most Blue Flags per capita in the world
- the most dense concentration of Blue Flag Beaches
- the most Blue Flag beaches and per coastline length in the world.
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
Cape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
Sea monster
In Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
Ayia Napa sea monster
The Ayia Napa Sea Monster is a cryptid, claimed to inhabit the coast off of Ayia Napa in Cyprus, a popular tourist resort on the Mediterranean. Most sightings occur around Cape Greco . It is known by the local fishermen as "To Filiko Teras", which translates as "The Friendly Monster"...
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
Porpoise
Porpoises are small cetaceans of the family Phocoenidae; they are related to whales and dolphins. They are distinct from dolphins, although the word "porpoise" has been used to refer to any small dolphin, especially by sailors and fishermen...
and a dragon
Dragon
A dragon is a legendary creature, typically with serpentine or reptilian traits, that feature in the myths of many cultures. There are two distinct cultural traditions of dragons: the European dragon, derived from European folk traditions and ultimately related to Greek and Middle Eastern...
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
Shopping
Cyprus is known for its handicrafts and boutiques, while in Ayia Napa, the shops are interspersed with outlets selling designer sunglasses and watches.Monastery
Ayia Napa Monastery is the best known landmark of the Agia Napa area. It has a charm that represents a time when Agia Napa was a sleepy fishing village. It seems that in ancient times, the location where the monastery and the village exists today, was covered by thick forest, visited only by hunters from the neighbouring villages.Museums and ruins
The town contains a number of museums. The Tornaritis - Pierides Museum of Marine Life was founded in June 1992 in Agia Napa and is located at the lower level of the Town hall. It exhibits past and present marine life, scientifically classified. Its main purpose is to show the marine fauna of Cyprus and the MediterraneanMediterranean Sea
The Mediterranean Sea is a sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by the Mediterranean region and almost completely enclosed by land: on the north by Anatolia and Europe, on the south by North Africa, and on the east by the Levant...
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
Thalassa
Thalassa may refer to:* Thalassa , a primordial Greek sea goddess* Thalassa , a moon of the planet Neptune* Thalassa, a fictional planet in Arthur C...
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
Greeks
The Greeks, also known as the Hellenes , are a nation and ethnic group native to Greece, Cyprus and neighboring regions. They also form a significant diaspora, with Greek communities established around the world....
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
Festival
The Ayia Napa Festival was first held in September 1985 and has been established as an annual event since. It takes place in Sepheris Square in Ayia Napa Monastery. The festivities reflect the historic, cultural and agricultural traditions of Ayia Napa and Cyprus as a whole. The programme includes theatrical performancesTheatre
Theatre is a collaborative form of fine art that uses live performers to present the experience of a real or imagined event before a live audience in a specific place. The performers may communicate this experience to the audience through combinations of gesture, speech, song, music or dance...
, opera
Opera
Opera is an art form in which singers and musicians perform a dramatic work combining text and musical score, usually in a theatrical setting. Opera incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre, such as acting, scenery, and costumes and sometimes includes dance...
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
Ayia Napa Youth Festival
The Ayia Napa Youth Festival was established in 2010 when the Ayia Napa youth council decided to organise a festival similar to the large music festivals of Europe, combining activities and music. The festival is based on several principles such as free entrance, the headliners to be chosen by the public,a charity goal, a social responsibility message attached to it; all styles of music are welcome. At the first festival which took place at the harbour square of Ayia Napa more than 10,000 people visited the festival during the three-day period with bands such as the Greek reggaeReggae
Reggae is a music genre first developed in Jamaica in the late 1960s. While sometimes used in a broader sense to refer to most types of Jamaican music, the term reggae more properly denotes a particular music style that originated following on the development of ska and rocksteady.Reggae is based...
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
WaterWorld themed Waterpark
The Ayia Napa Waterworld themed Waterpark is the biggest waterpark in Europe. Waterworld Themed Waterpark in Ayia Napa has received major international recognition for marketing and Innovation from a spectrum of the Waterpark associations around the globe winning over 25 prestigious awards to date. In our Greek themed world you will find upgraded attractions to entertain children and adults alike, extensive relaxation areas for parents and more playground areas for the kids, ensuring they have a great holiday and a memorable stay in Ayia Napa, Cyprus.Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
World record
Following the proposal of Yiannis Karousos the President of the Ayia Napa Tourism Committee, on September 16, 2007, the world's longest chain of syrtaki dancers (a traditional Greek dance) danced to Zorba the GreekZorba the Greek
Zorba the Greek is a 1964 film based on the novel Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis. The film was directed by Cypriot Michael Cacoyannis and the title character was played by Anthony Quinn...
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
Gallery
Ayia Napa is a resortResort
A resort is a place used for relaxation or recreation, attracting visitors for holidays or vacations. Resorts are places, towns or sometimes commercial establishment operated by a single company....
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
Cyprus
Cyprus , officially the Republic of Cyprus , is a Eurasian island country, member of the European Union, in the Eastern Mediterranean, east of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and north of Egypt. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.The earliest known human activity on the...
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
Ibiza
Ibiza or Eivissa is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea 79 km off the coast of the city of Valencia in Spain. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. With Formentera, it is one of the two Pine Islands or Pityuses. Its largest cities are Ibiza...
, Rimini
Rimini
Rimini is a medium-sized city of 142,579 inhabitants in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, and capital city of the Province of Rimini. It is located on the Adriatic Sea, on the coast between the rivers Marecchia and Ausa...
and Mykonos
Mykonos
Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans an area of and rises to an elevation of at its highest point. There are 9,320 inhabitants most of whom live in the largest town, Mykonos, which lies on the west coast. The town is also...
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
Grime (music)
Grime is a style of music that emerged from Bow, East London, England in the early 2000s, primarily as a development of UK garage, dancehall, and hip hop...
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
Etymology
The name Ayia Napa is derived from a VenetianRepublic of Venice
The Republic of Venice or Venetian Republic was a state originating from the city of Venice in Northeastern Italy. It existed for over a millennium, from the late 7th century until 1797. It was formally known as the Most Serene Republic of Venice and is often referred to as La Serenissima, in...
-era monastery
Monastery
Monastery denotes the building, or complex of buildings, that houses a room reserved for prayer as well as the domestic quarters and workplace of monastics, whether monks or nuns, and whether living in community or alone .Monasteries may vary greatly in size – a small dwelling accommodating only...
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
Nightclub
A nightclub is an entertainment venue which usually operates late into the night...
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
History
According to local legend, the now renowned original icon was accidentally discovered by a hunter in hot pursuit of his prey. Upon discovery, the icon of the Virgin Mary was called Virgin Mary of Napa, eventually shortened and now known as Ayia Napa. The present monastery, built in 1500, was built around the cave, in honour of the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. According to local tradition, until 1790 no-one lived within close vicinity of Ayia Napa. The first inhabitants who actually appeared and settled were twenty men from Salonica, GreeceGreece
Greece , officially the Hellenic Republic , and historically Hellas or the Republic of Greece in English, is a country in southeastern Europe....
.
Geography
Geographically, Ayia Napa lies near Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
Famagusta
Famagusta is a city on the east coast of Cyprus and is capital of the Famagusta District. It is located east of Nicosia, and possesses the deepest harbour of the island.-Name:...
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
Famagusta District
Famagusta District is one of the six districts of Cyprus. Its main town is the island's most important port, Famagusta. The city of Famagusta is currently controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus ....
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
Turkish invasion of Cyprus
The Turkish invasion of Cyprus, launched on 20 July 1974, was a Turkish military invasion in response to a Greek military junta backed coup in Cyprus...
by Turkish
Turkey
Turkey , known officially as the Republic of Turkey , is a Eurasian country located in Western Asia and in East Thrace in Southeastern Europe...
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Tourism
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
and features a number of bathing beach
Beach
A beach is a geological landform along the shoreline of an ocean, sea, lake or river. It usually consists of loose particles which are often composed of rock, such as sand, gravel, shingle, pebbles or cobblestones...
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
Windsurfing
Windsurfing or sailboarding is a surface water sport that combines elements of surfing and sailing. It consists of a board usually two to four metres long, powered by the orthogonal effect of the wind on a sail. The rig is connected to the board by a free-rotating universal joint and comprises a...
, canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing is an outdoor activity that involves a special kind of canoe.Open canoes may be 'poled' , sailed, 'lined and tracked' or even 'gunnel-bobbed'....
, scuba diving
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
Nissi beach
Nissi beach, is a well-known sandy beach in the resort of Ayia Napa, Cyprus.The sandy beach stretches for 500m and the waters are clean enough for the beach to have been awarded blue flag designation. The beach which runs the length of its own cove, takes its name from the small islet located...
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
Blue Flag beach
The Blue Flag is a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education that a beach or marina meets its stringent standards.The Blue Flag is a trademark owned by FEE which is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation consisting of 65 organisations in 60 member countries in Europe,...
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
- the most Blue Flags per capita in the world
- the most dense concentration of Blue Flag Beaches
- the most Blue Flag beaches and per coastline length in the world.
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
Cape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
Sea monster
In Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
Ayia Napa sea monster
The Ayia Napa Sea Monster is a cryptid, claimed to inhabit the coast off of Ayia Napa in Cyprus, a popular tourist resort on the Mediterranean. Most sightings occur around Cape Greco . It is known by the local fishermen as "To Filiko Teras", which translates as "The Friendly Monster"...
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
Porpoise
Porpoises are small cetaceans of the family Phocoenidae; they are related to whales and dolphins. They are distinct from dolphins, although the word "porpoise" has been used to refer to any small dolphin, especially by sailors and fishermen...
and a dragon
Dragon
A dragon is a legendary creature, typically with serpentine or reptilian traits, that feature in the myths of many cultures. There are two distinct cultural traditions of dragons: the European dragon, derived from European folk traditions and ultimately related to Greek and Middle Eastern...
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
Shopping
Cyprus is known for its handicrafts and boutiques, while in Ayia Napa, the shops are interspersed with outlets selling designer sunglasses and watches.Monastery
Ayia Napa Monastery is the best known landmark of the Agia Napa area. It has a charm that represents a time when Agia Napa was a sleepy fishing village. It seems that in ancient times, the location where the monastery and the village exists today, was covered by thick forest, visited only by hunters from the neighbouring villages.Museums and ruins
The town contains a number of museums. The Tornaritis - Pierides Museum of Marine Life was founded in June 1992 in Agia Napa and is located at the lower level of the Town hall. It exhibits past and present marine life, scientifically classified. Its main purpose is to show the marine fauna of Cyprus and the MediterraneanMediterranean Sea
The Mediterranean Sea is a sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by the Mediterranean region and almost completely enclosed by land: on the north by Anatolia and Europe, on the south by North Africa, and on the east by the Levant...
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
Thalassa
Thalassa may refer to:* Thalassa , a primordial Greek sea goddess* Thalassa , a moon of the planet Neptune* Thalassa, a fictional planet in Arthur C...
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
Greeks
The Greeks, also known as the Hellenes , are a nation and ethnic group native to Greece, Cyprus and neighboring regions. They also form a significant diaspora, with Greek communities established around the world....
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
Festival
The Ayia Napa Festival was first held in September 1985 and has been established as an annual event since. It takes place in Sepheris Square in Ayia Napa Monastery. The festivities reflect the historic, cultural and agricultural traditions of Ayia Napa and Cyprus as a whole. The programme includes theatrical performancesTheatre
Theatre is a collaborative form of fine art that uses live performers to present the experience of a real or imagined event before a live audience in a specific place. The performers may communicate this experience to the audience through combinations of gesture, speech, song, music or dance...
, opera
Opera
Opera is an art form in which singers and musicians perform a dramatic work combining text and musical score, usually in a theatrical setting. Opera incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre, such as acting, scenery, and costumes and sometimes includes dance...
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
Ayia Napa Youth Festival
The Ayia Napa Youth Festival was established in 2010 when the Ayia Napa youth council decided to organise a festival similar to the large music festivals of Europe, combining activities and music. The festival is based on several principles such as free entrance, the headliners to be chosen by the public,a charity goal, a social responsibility message attached to it; all styles of music are welcome. At the first festival which took place at the harbour square of Ayia Napa more than 10,000 people visited the festival during the three-day period with bands such as the Greek reggaeReggae
Reggae is a music genre first developed in Jamaica in the late 1960s. While sometimes used in a broader sense to refer to most types of Jamaican music, the term reggae more properly denotes a particular music style that originated following on the development of ska and rocksteady.Reggae is based...
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
WaterWorld themed Waterpark
The Ayia Napa Waterworld themed Waterpark is the biggest waterpark in Europe. Waterworld Themed Waterpark in Ayia Napa has received major international recognition for marketing and Innovation from a spectrum of the Waterpark associations around the globe winning over 25 prestigious awards to date. In our Greek themed world you will find upgraded attractions to entertain children and adults alike, extensive relaxation areas for parents and more playground areas for the kids, ensuring they have a great holiday and a memorable stay in Ayia Napa, Cyprus.Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
World record
Following the proposal of Yiannis Karousos the President of the Ayia Napa Tourism Committee, on September 16, 2007, the world's longest chain of syrtaki dancers (a traditional Greek dance) danced to Zorba the GreekZorba the Greek
Zorba the Greek is a 1964 film based on the novel Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis. The film was directed by Cypriot Michael Cacoyannis and the title character was played by Anthony Quinn...
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
Gallery
Ayia Napa is a resortResort
A resort is a place used for relaxation or recreation, attracting visitors for holidays or vacations. Resorts are places, towns or sometimes commercial establishment operated by a single company....
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
Cyprus
Cyprus , officially the Republic of Cyprus , is a Eurasian island country, member of the European Union, in the Eastern Mediterranean, east of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and north of Egypt. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.The earliest known human activity on the...
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
Ibiza
Ibiza or Eivissa is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea 79 km off the coast of the city of Valencia in Spain. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. With Formentera, it is one of the two Pine Islands or Pityuses. Its largest cities are Ibiza...
, Rimini
Rimini
Rimini is a medium-sized city of 142,579 inhabitants in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, and capital city of the Province of Rimini. It is located on the Adriatic Sea, on the coast between the rivers Marecchia and Ausa...
and Mykonos
Mykonos
Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans an area of and rises to an elevation of at its highest point. There are 9,320 inhabitants most of whom live in the largest town, Mykonos, which lies on the west coast. The town is also...
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
Grime (music)
Grime is a style of music that emerged from Bow, East London, England in the early 2000s, primarily as a development of UK garage, dancehall, and hip hop...
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
Etymology
The name Ayia Napa is derived from a VenetianRepublic of Venice
The Republic of Venice or Venetian Republic was a state originating from the city of Venice in Northeastern Italy. It existed for over a millennium, from the late 7th century until 1797. It was formally known as the Most Serene Republic of Venice and is often referred to as La Serenissima, in...
-era monastery
Monastery
Monastery denotes the building, or complex of buildings, that houses a room reserved for prayer as well as the domestic quarters and workplace of monastics, whether monks or nuns, and whether living in community or alone .Monasteries may vary greatly in size – a small dwelling accommodating only...
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
Nightclub
A nightclub is an entertainment venue which usually operates late into the night...
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
History
According to local legend, the now renowned original icon was accidentally discovered by a hunter in hot pursuit of his prey. Upon discovery, the icon of the Virgin Mary was called Virgin Mary of Napa, eventually shortened and now known as Ayia Napa. The present monastery, built in 1500, was built around the cave, in honour of the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. According to local tradition, until 1790 no-one lived within close vicinity of Ayia Napa. The first inhabitants who actually appeared and settled were twenty men from Salonica, GreeceGreece
Greece , officially the Hellenic Republic , and historically Hellas or the Republic of Greece in English, is a country in southeastern Europe....
.
Geography
Geographically, Ayia Napa lies near Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
Famagusta
Famagusta is a city on the east coast of Cyprus and is capital of the Famagusta District. It is located east of Nicosia, and possesses the deepest harbour of the island.-Name:...
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
Famagusta District
Famagusta District is one of the six districts of Cyprus. Its main town is the island's most important port, Famagusta. The city of Famagusta is currently controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus ....
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
Turkish invasion of Cyprus
The Turkish invasion of Cyprus, launched on 20 July 1974, was a Turkish military invasion in response to a Greek military junta backed coup in Cyprus...
by Turkish
Turkey
Turkey , known officially as the Republic of Turkey , is a Eurasian country located in Western Asia and in East Thrace in Southeastern Europe...
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Tourism
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
and features a number of bathing beach
Beach
A beach is a geological landform along the shoreline of an ocean, sea, lake or river. It usually consists of loose particles which are often composed of rock, such as sand, gravel, shingle, pebbles or cobblestones...
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
Windsurfing
Windsurfing or sailboarding is a surface water sport that combines elements of surfing and sailing. It consists of a board usually two to four metres long, powered by the orthogonal effect of the wind on a sail. The rig is connected to the board by a free-rotating universal joint and comprises a...
, canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing is an outdoor activity that involves a special kind of canoe.Open canoes may be 'poled' , sailed, 'lined and tracked' or even 'gunnel-bobbed'....
, scuba diving
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
Nissi beach
Nissi beach, is a well-known sandy beach in the resort of Ayia Napa, Cyprus.The sandy beach stretches for 500m and the waters are clean enough for the beach to have been awarded blue flag designation. The beach which runs the length of its own cove, takes its name from the small islet located...
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
Blue Flag beach
The Blue Flag is a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education that a beach or marina meets its stringent standards.The Blue Flag is a trademark owned by FEE which is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation consisting of 65 organisations in 60 member countries in Europe,...
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
- the most Blue Flags per capita in the world
- the most dense concentration of Blue Flag Beaches
- the most Blue Flag beaches and per coastline length in the world.
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
Cape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
Sea monster
In Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
Ayia Napa sea monster
The Ayia Napa Sea Monster is a cryptid, claimed to inhabit the coast off of Ayia Napa in Cyprus, a popular tourist resort on the Mediterranean. Most sightings occur around Cape Greco . It is known by the local fishermen as "To Filiko Teras", which translates as "The Friendly Monster"...
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
Porpoise
Porpoises are small cetaceans of the family Phocoenidae; they are related to whales and dolphins. They are distinct from dolphins, although the word "porpoise" has been used to refer to any small dolphin, especially by sailors and fishermen...
and a dragon
Dragon
A dragon is a legendary creature, typically with serpentine or reptilian traits, that feature in the myths of many cultures. There are two distinct cultural traditions of dragons: the European dragon, derived from European folk traditions and ultimately related to Greek and Middle Eastern...
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
Shopping
Cyprus is known for its handicrafts and boutiques, while in Ayia Napa, the shops are interspersed with outlets selling designer sunglasses and watches.Monastery
Ayia Napa Monastery is the best known landmark of the Agia Napa area. It has a charm that represents a time when Agia Napa was a sleepy fishing village. It seems that in ancient times, the location where the monastery and the village exists today, was covered by thick forest, visited only by hunters from the neighbouring villages.Museums and ruins
The town contains a number of museums. The Tornaritis - Pierides Museum of Marine Life was founded in June 1992 in Agia Napa and is located at the lower level of the Town hall. It exhibits past and present marine life, scientifically classified. Its main purpose is to show the marine fauna of Cyprus and the MediterraneanMediterranean Sea
The Mediterranean Sea is a sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by the Mediterranean region and almost completely enclosed by land: on the north by Anatolia and Europe, on the south by North Africa, and on the east by the Levant...
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
Thalassa
Thalassa may refer to:* Thalassa , a primordial Greek sea goddess* Thalassa , a moon of the planet Neptune* Thalassa, a fictional planet in Arthur C...
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
Greeks
The Greeks, also known as the Hellenes , are a nation and ethnic group native to Greece, Cyprus and neighboring regions. They also form a significant diaspora, with Greek communities established around the world....
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
Festival
The Ayia Napa Festival was first held in September 1985 and has been established as an annual event since. It takes place in Sepheris Square in Ayia Napa Monastery. The festivities reflect the historic, cultural and agricultural traditions of Ayia Napa and Cyprus as a whole. The programme includes theatrical performancesTheatre
Theatre is a collaborative form of fine art that uses live performers to present the experience of a real or imagined event before a live audience in a specific place. The performers may communicate this experience to the audience through combinations of gesture, speech, song, music or dance...
, opera
Opera
Opera is an art form in which singers and musicians perform a dramatic work combining text and musical score, usually in a theatrical setting. Opera incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre, such as acting, scenery, and costumes and sometimes includes dance...
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
Ayia Napa Youth Festival
The Ayia Napa Youth Festival was established in 2010 when the Ayia Napa youth council decided to organise a festival similar to the large music festivals of Europe, combining activities and music. The festival is based on several principles such as free entrance, the headliners to be chosen by the public,a charity goal, a social responsibility message attached to it; all styles of music are welcome. At the first festival which took place at the harbour square of Ayia Napa more than 10,000 people visited the festival during the three-day period with bands such as the Greek reggaeReggae
Reggae is a music genre first developed in Jamaica in the late 1960s. While sometimes used in a broader sense to refer to most types of Jamaican music, the term reggae more properly denotes a particular music style that originated following on the development of ska and rocksteady.Reggae is based...
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
WaterWorld themed Waterpark
The Ayia Napa Waterworld themed Waterpark is the biggest waterpark in Europe. Waterworld Themed Waterpark in Ayia Napa has received major international recognition for marketing and Innovation from a spectrum of the Waterpark associations around the globe winning over 25 prestigious awards to date. In our Greek themed world you will find upgraded attractions to entertain children and adults alike, extensive relaxation areas for parents and more playground areas for the kids, ensuring they have a great holiday and a memorable stay in Ayia Napa, Cyprus.Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
World record
Following the proposal of Yiannis Karousos the President of the Ayia Napa Tourism Committee, on September 16, 2007, the world's longest chain of syrtaki dancers (a traditional Greek dance) danced to Zorba the GreekZorba the Greek
Zorba the Greek is a 1964 film based on the novel Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis. The film was directed by Cypriot Michael Cacoyannis and the title character was played by Anthony Quinn...
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
Gallery
Ayia Napa is a resortResort
A resort is a place used for relaxation or recreation, attracting visitors for holidays or vacations. Resorts are places, towns or sometimes commercial establishment operated by a single company....
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
Cyprus
Cyprus , officially the Republic of Cyprus , is a Eurasian island country, member of the European Union, in the Eastern Mediterranean, east of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and north of Egypt. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.The earliest known human activity on the...
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
Ibiza
Ibiza or Eivissa is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea 79 km off the coast of the city of Valencia in Spain. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. With Formentera, it is one of the two Pine Islands or Pityuses. Its largest cities are Ibiza...
, Rimini
Rimini
Rimini is a medium-sized city of 142,579 inhabitants in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, and capital city of the Province of Rimini. It is located on the Adriatic Sea, on the coast between the rivers Marecchia and Ausa...
and Mykonos
Mykonos
Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans an area of and rises to an elevation of at its highest point. There are 9,320 inhabitants most of whom live in the largest town, Mykonos, which lies on the west coast. The town is also...
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
Grime (music)
Grime is a style of music that emerged from Bow, East London, England in the early 2000s, primarily as a development of UK garage, dancehall, and hip hop...
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
Etymology
The name Ayia Napa is derived from a VenetianRepublic of Venice
The Republic of Venice or Venetian Republic was a state originating from the city of Venice in Northeastern Italy. It existed for over a millennium, from the late 7th century until 1797. It was formally known as the Most Serene Republic of Venice and is often referred to as La Serenissima, in...
-era monastery
Monastery
Monastery denotes the building, or complex of buildings, that houses a room reserved for prayer as well as the domestic quarters and workplace of monastics, whether monks or nuns, and whether living in community or alone .Monasteries may vary greatly in size – a small dwelling accommodating only...
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
Nightclub
A nightclub is an entertainment venue which usually operates late into the night...
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
History
According to local legend, the now renowned original icon was accidentally discovered by a hunter in hot pursuit of his prey. Upon discovery, the icon of the Virgin Mary was called Virgin Mary of Napa, eventually shortened and now known as Ayia Napa. The present monastery, built in 1500, was built around the cave, in honour of the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. According to local tradition, until 1790 no-one lived within close vicinity of Ayia Napa. The first inhabitants who actually appeared and settled were twenty men from Salonica, GreeceGreece
Greece , officially the Hellenic Republic , and historically Hellas or the Republic of Greece in English, is a country in southeastern Europe....
.
Geography
Geographically, Ayia Napa lies near Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
Famagusta
Famagusta is a city on the east coast of Cyprus and is capital of the Famagusta District. It is located east of Nicosia, and possesses the deepest harbour of the island.-Name:...
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
Famagusta District
Famagusta District is one of the six districts of Cyprus. Its main town is the island's most important port, Famagusta. The city of Famagusta is currently controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus ....
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
Turkish invasion of Cyprus
The Turkish invasion of Cyprus, launched on 20 July 1974, was a Turkish military invasion in response to a Greek military junta backed coup in Cyprus...
by Turkish
Turkey
Turkey , known officially as the Republic of Turkey , is a Eurasian country located in Western Asia and in East Thrace in Southeastern Europe...
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Tourism
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
and features a number of bathing beach
Beach
A beach is a geological landform along the shoreline of an ocean, sea, lake or river. It usually consists of loose particles which are often composed of rock, such as sand, gravel, shingle, pebbles or cobblestones...
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
Windsurfing
Windsurfing or sailboarding is a surface water sport that combines elements of surfing and sailing. It consists of a board usually two to four metres long, powered by the orthogonal effect of the wind on a sail. The rig is connected to the board by a free-rotating universal joint and comprises a...
, canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing is an outdoor activity that involves a special kind of canoe.Open canoes may be 'poled' , sailed, 'lined and tracked' or even 'gunnel-bobbed'....
, scuba diving
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
Nissi beach
Nissi beach, is a well-known sandy beach in the resort of Ayia Napa, Cyprus.The sandy beach stretches for 500m and the waters are clean enough for the beach to have been awarded blue flag designation. The beach which runs the length of its own cove, takes its name from the small islet located...
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
Blue Flag beach
The Blue Flag is a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education that a beach or marina meets its stringent standards.The Blue Flag is a trademark owned by FEE which is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation consisting of 65 organisations in 60 member countries in Europe,...
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
- the most Blue Flags per capita in the world
- the most dense concentration of Blue Flag Beaches
- the most Blue Flag beaches and per coastline length in the world.
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
Cape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
Sea monster
In Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
Ayia Napa sea monster
The Ayia Napa Sea Monster is a cryptid, claimed to inhabit the coast off of Ayia Napa in Cyprus, a popular tourist resort on the Mediterranean. Most sightings occur around Cape Greco . It is known by the local fishermen as "To Filiko Teras", which translates as "The Friendly Monster"...
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
Porpoise
Porpoises are small cetaceans of the family Phocoenidae; they are related to whales and dolphins. They are distinct from dolphins, although the word "porpoise" has been used to refer to any small dolphin, especially by sailors and fishermen...
and a dragon
Dragon
A dragon is a legendary creature, typically with serpentine or reptilian traits, that feature in the myths of many cultures. There are two distinct cultural traditions of dragons: the European dragon, derived from European folk traditions and ultimately related to Greek and Middle Eastern...
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
Shopping
Cyprus is known for its handicrafts and boutiques, while in Ayia Napa, the shops are interspersed with outlets selling designer sunglasses and watches.Monastery
Ayia Napa Monastery is the best known landmark of the Agia Napa area. It has a charm that represents a time when Agia Napa was a sleepy fishing village. It seems that in ancient times, the location where the monastery and the village exists today, was covered by thick forest, visited only by hunters from the neighbouring villages.Museums and ruins
The town contains a number of museums. The Tornaritis - Pierides Museum of Marine Life was founded in June 1992 in Agia Napa and is located at the lower level of the Town hall. It exhibits past and present marine life, scientifically classified. Its main purpose is to show the marine fauna of Cyprus and the MediterraneanMediterranean Sea
The Mediterranean Sea is a sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by the Mediterranean region and almost completely enclosed by land: on the north by Anatolia and Europe, on the south by North Africa, and on the east by the Levant...
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
Thalassa
Thalassa may refer to:* Thalassa , a primordial Greek sea goddess* Thalassa , a moon of the planet Neptune* Thalassa, a fictional planet in Arthur C...
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
Greeks
The Greeks, also known as the Hellenes , are a nation and ethnic group native to Greece, Cyprus and neighboring regions. They also form a significant diaspora, with Greek communities established around the world....
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
Festival
The Ayia Napa Festival was first held in September 1985 and has been established as an annual event since. It takes place in Sepheris Square in Ayia Napa Monastery. The festivities reflect the historic, cultural and agricultural traditions of Ayia Napa and Cyprus as a whole. The programme includes theatrical performancesTheatre
Theatre is a collaborative form of fine art that uses live performers to present the experience of a real or imagined event before a live audience in a specific place. The performers may communicate this experience to the audience through combinations of gesture, speech, song, music or dance...
, opera
Opera
Opera is an art form in which singers and musicians perform a dramatic work combining text and musical score, usually in a theatrical setting. Opera incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre, such as acting, scenery, and costumes and sometimes includes dance...
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
Ayia Napa Youth Festival
The Ayia Napa Youth Festival was established in 2010 when the Ayia Napa youth council decided to organise a festival similar to the large music festivals of Europe, combining activities and music. The festival is based on several principles such as free entrance, the headliners to be chosen by the public,a charity goal, a social responsibility message attached to it; all styles of music are welcome. At the first festival which took place at the harbour square of Ayia Napa more than 10,000 people visited the festival during the three-day period with bands such as the Greek reggaeReggae
Reggae is a music genre first developed in Jamaica in the late 1960s. While sometimes used in a broader sense to refer to most types of Jamaican music, the term reggae more properly denotes a particular music style that originated following on the development of ska and rocksteady.Reggae is based...
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
WaterWorld themed Waterpark
The Ayia Napa Waterworld themed Waterpark is the biggest waterpark in Europe. Waterworld Themed Waterpark in Ayia Napa has received major international recognition for marketing and Innovation from a spectrum of the Waterpark associations around the globe winning over 25 prestigious awards to date. In our Greek themed world you will find upgraded attractions to entertain children and adults alike, extensive relaxation areas for parents and more playground areas for the kids, ensuring they have a great holiday and a memorable stay in Ayia Napa, Cyprus.Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
World record
Following the proposal of Yiannis Karousos the President of the Ayia Napa Tourism Committee, on September 16, 2007, the world's longest chain of syrtaki dancers (a traditional Greek dance) danced to Zorba the GreekZorba the Greek
Zorba the Greek is a 1964 film based on the novel Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis. The film was directed by Cypriot Michael Cacoyannis and the title character was played by Anthony Quinn...
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
Gallery
Ayia Napa is a resortResort
A resort is a place used for relaxation or recreation, attracting visitors for holidays or vacations. Resorts are places, towns or sometimes commercial establishment operated by a single company....
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
Cyprus
Cyprus , officially the Republic of Cyprus , is a Eurasian island country, member of the European Union, in the Eastern Mediterranean, east of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and north of Egypt. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.The earliest known human activity on the...
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
Ibiza
Ibiza or Eivissa is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea 79 km off the coast of the city of Valencia in Spain. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. With Formentera, it is one of the two Pine Islands or Pityuses. Its largest cities are Ibiza...
, Rimini
Rimini
Rimini is a medium-sized city of 142,579 inhabitants in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, and capital city of the Province of Rimini. It is located on the Adriatic Sea, on the coast between the rivers Marecchia and Ausa...
and Mykonos
Mykonos
Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans an area of and rises to an elevation of at its highest point. There are 9,320 inhabitants most of whom live in the largest town, Mykonos, which lies on the west coast. The town is also...
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
Grime (music)
Grime is a style of music that emerged from Bow, East London, England in the early 2000s, primarily as a development of UK garage, dancehall, and hip hop...
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
Etymology
The name Ayia Napa is derived from a VenetianRepublic of Venice
The Republic of Venice or Venetian Republic was a state originating from the city of Venice in Northeastern Italy. It existed for over a millennium, from the late 7th century until 1797. It was formally known as the Most Serene Republic of Venice and is often referred to as La Serenissima, in...
-era monastery
Monastery
Monastery denotes the building, or complex of buildings, that houses a room reserved for prayer as well as the domestic quarters and workplace of monastics, whether monks or nuns, and whether living in community or alone .Monasteries may vary greatly in size – a small dwelling accommodating only...
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
Nightclub
A nightclub is an entertainment venue which usually operates late into the night...
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
History
According to local legend, the now renowned original icon was accidentally discovered by a hunter in hot pursuit of his prey. Upon discovery, the icon of the Virgin Mary was called Virgin Mary of Napa, eventually shortened and now known as Ayia Napa. The present monastery, built in 1500, was built around the cave, in honour of the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. According to local tradition, until 1790 no-one lived within close vicinity of Ayia Napa. The first inhabitants who actually appeared and settled were twenty men from Salonica, GreeceGreece
Greece , officially the Hellenic Republic , and historically Hellas or the Republic of Greece in English, is a country in southeastern Europe....
.
Geography
Geographically, Ayia Napa lies near Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
Famagusta
Famagusta is a city on the east coast of Cyprus and is capital of the Famagusta District. It is located east of Nicosia, and possesses the deepest harbour of the island.-Name:...
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
Famagusta District
Famagusta District is one of the six districts of Cyprus. Its main town is the island's most important port, Famagusta. The city of Famagusta is currently controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus ....
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
Turkish invasion of Cyprus
The Turkish invasion of Cyprus, launched on 20 July 1974, was a Turkish military invasion in response to a Greek military junta backed coup in Cyprus...
by Turkish
Turkey
Turkey , known officially as the Republic of Turkey , is a Eurasian country located in Western Asia and in East Thrace in Southeastern Europe...
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Tourism
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
and features a number of bathing beach
Beach
A beach is a geological landform along the shoreline of an ocean, sea, lake or river. It usually consists of loose particles which are often composed of rock, such as sand, gravel, shingle, pebbles or cobblestones...
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
Windsurfing
Windsurfing or sailboarding is a surface water sport that combines elements of surfing and sailing. It consists of a board usually two to four metres long, powered by the orthogonal effect of the wind on a sail. The rig is connected to the board by a free-rotating universal joint and comprises a...
, canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing is an outdoor activity that involves a special kind of canoe.Open canoes may be 'poled' , sailed, 'lined and tracked' or even 'gunnel-bobbed'....
, scuba diving
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
Nissi beach
Nissi beach, is a well-known sandy beach in the resort of Ayia Napa, Cyprus.The sandy beach stretches for 500m and the waters are clean enough for the beach to have been awarded blue flag designation. The beach which runs the length of its own cove, takes its name from the small islet located...
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
Blue Flag beach
The Blue Flag is a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education that a beach or marina meets its stringent standards.The Blue Flag is a trademark owned by FEE which is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation consisting of 65 organisations in 60 member countries in Europe,...
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
- the most Blue Flags per capita in the world
- the most dense concentration of Blue Flag Beaches
- the most Blue Flag beaches and per coastline length in the world.
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
Cape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
Sea monster
In Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
Ayia Napa sea monster
The Ayia Napa Sea Monster is a cryptid, claimed to inhabit the coast off of Ayia Napa in Cyprus, a popular tourist resort on the Mediterranean. Most sightings occur around Cape Greco . It is known by the local fishermen as "To Filiko Teras", which translates as "The Friendly Monster"...
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
Porpoise
Porpoises are small cetaceans of the family Phocoenidae; they are related to whales and dolphins. They are distinct from dolphins, although the word "porpoise" has been used to refer to any small dolphin, especially by sailors and fishermen...
and a dragon
Dragon
A dragon is a legendary creature, typically with serpentine or reptilian traits, that feature in the myths of many cultures. There are two distinct cultural traditions of dragons: the European dragon, derived from European folk traditions and ultimately related to Greek and Middle Eastern...
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
Shopping
Cyprus is known for its handicrafts and boutiques, while in Ayia Napa, the shops are interspersed with outlets selling designer sunglasses and watches.Monastery
Ayia Napa Monastery is the best known landmark of the Agia Napa area. It has a charm that represents a time when Agia Napa was a sleepy fishing village. It seems that in ancient times, the location where the monastery and the village exists today, was covered by thick forest, visited only by hunters from the neighbouring villages.Museums and ruins
The town contains a number of museums. The Tornaritis - Pierides Museum of Marine Life was founded in June 1992 in Agia Napa and is located at the lower level of the Town hall. It exhibits past and present marine life, scientifically classified. Its main purpose is to show the marine fauna of Cyprus and the MediterraneanMediterranean Sea
The Mediterranean Sea is a sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by the Mediterranean region and almost completely enclosed by land: on the north by Anatolia and Europe, on the south by North Africa, and on the east by the Levant...
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
Thalassa
Thalassa may refer to:* Thalassa , a primordial Greek sea goddess* Thalassa , a moon of the planet Neptune* Thalassa, a fictional planet in Arthur C...
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
Greeks
The Greeks, also known as the Hellenes , are a nation and ethnic group native to Greece, Cyprus and neighboring regions. They also form a significant diaspora, with Greek communities established around the world....
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
Festival
The Ayia Napa Festival was first held in September 1985 and has been established as an annual event since. It takes place in Sepheris Square in Ayia Napa Monastery. The festivities reflect the historic, cultural and agricultural traditions of Ayia Napa and Cyprus as a whole. The programme includes theatrical performancesTheatre
Theatre is a collaborative form of fine art that uses live performers to present the experience of a real or imagined event before a live audience in a specific place. The performers may communicate this experience to the audience through combinations of gesture, speech, song, music or dance...
, opera
Opera
Opera is an art form in which singers and musicians perform a dramatic work combining text and musical score, usually in a theatrical setting. Opera incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre, such as acting, scenery, and costumes and sometimes includes dance...
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
Ayia Napa Youth Festival
The Ayia Napa Youth Festival was established in 2010 when the Ayia Napa youth council decided to organise a festival similar to the large music festivals of Europe, combining activities and music. The festival is based on several principles such as free entrance, the headliners to be chosen by the public,a charity goal, a social responsibility message attached to it; all styles of music are welcome. At the first festival which took place at the harbour square of Ayia Napa more than 10,000 people visited the festival during the three-day period with bands such as the Greek reggaeReggae
Reggae is a music genre first developed in Jamaica in the late 1960s. While sometimes used in a broader sense to refer to most types of Jamaican music, the term reggae more properly denotes a particular music style that originated following on the development of ska and rocksteady.Reggae is based...
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
WaterWorld themed Waterpark
The Ayia Napa Waterworld themed Waterpark is the biggest waterpark in Europe. Waterworld Themed Waterpark in Ayia Napa has received major international recognition for marketing and Innovation from a spectrum of the Waterpark associations around the globe winning over 25 prestigious awards to date. In our Greek themed world you will find upgraded attractions to entertain children and adults alike, extensive relaxation areas for parents and more playground areas for the kids, ensuring they have a great holiday and a memorable stay in Ayia Napa, Cyprus.Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
World record
Following the proposal of Yiannis Karousos the President of the Ayia Napa Tourism Committee, on September 16, 2007, the world's longest chain of syrtaki dancers (a traditional Greek dance) danced to Zorba the GreekZorba the Greek
Zorba the Greek is a 1964 film based on the novel Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis. The film was directed by Cypriot Michael Cacoyannis and the title character was played by Anthony Quinn...
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
Gallery
Ayia Napa is a resortResort
A resort is a place used for relaxation or recreation, attracting visitors for holidays or vacations. Resorts are places, towns or sometimes commercial establishment operated by a single company....
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
Cyprus
Cyprus , officially the Republic of Cyprus , is a Eurasian island country, member of the European Union, in the Eastern Mediterranean, east of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and north of Egypt. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.The earliest known human activity on the...
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
Ibiza
Ibiza or Eivissa is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea 79 km off the coast of the city of Valencia in Spain. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. With Formentera, it is one of the two Pine Islands or Pityuses. Its largest cities are Ibiza...
, Rimini
Rimini
Rimini is a medium-sized city of 142,579 inhabitants in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, and capital city of the Province of Rimini. It is located on the Adriatic Sea, on the coast between the rivers Marecchia and Ausa...
and Mykonos
Mykonos
Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans an area of and rises to an elevation of at its highest point. There are 9,320 inhabitants most of whom live in the largest town, Mykonos, which lies on the west coast. The town is also...
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
Grime (music)
Grime is a style of music that emerged from Bow, East London, England in the early 2000s, primarily as a development of UK garage, dancehall, and hip hop...
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
Etymology
The name Ayia Napa is derived from a VenetianRepublic of Venice
The Republic of Venice or Venetian Republic was a state originating from the city of Venice in Northeastern Italy. It existed for over a millennium, from the late 7th century until 1797. It was formally known as the Most Serene Republic of Venice and is often referred to as La Serenissima, in...
-era monastery
Monastery
Monastery denotes the building, or complex of buildings, that houses a room reserved for prayer as well as the domestic quarters and workplace of monastics, whether monks or nuns, and whether living in community or alone .Monasteries may vary greatly in size – a small dwelling accommodating only...
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
Nightclub
A nightclub is an entertainment venue which usually operates late into the night...
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
History
According to local legend, the now renowned original icon was accidentally discovered by a hunter in hot pursuit of his prey. Upon discovery, the icon of the Virgin Mary was called Virgin Mary of Napa, eventually shortened and now known as Ayia Napa. The present monastery, built in 1500, was built around the cave, in honour of the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. According to local tradition, until 1790 no-one lived within close vicinity of Ayia Napa. The first inhabitants who actually appeared and settled were twenty men from Salonica, GreeceGreece
Greece , officially the Hellenic Republic , and historically Hellas or the Republic of Greece in English, is a country in southeastern Europe....
.
Geography
Geographically, Ayia Napa lies near Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
Famagusta
Famagusta is a city on the east coast of Cyprus and is capital of the Famagusta District. It is located east of Nicosia, and possesses the deepest harbour of the island.-Name:...
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
Famagusta District
Famagusta District is one of the six districts of Cyprus. Its main town is the island's most important port, Famagusta. The city of Famagusta is currently controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus ....
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
Turkish invasion of Cyprus
The Turkish invasion of Cyprus, launched on 20 July 1974, was a Turkish military invasion in response to a Greek military junta backed coup in Cyprus...
by Turkish
Turkey
Turkey , known officially as the Republic of Turkey , is a Eurasian country located in Western Asia and in East Thrace in Southeastern Europe...
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Tourism
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
and features a number of bathing beach
Beach
A beach is a geological landform along the shoreline of an ocean, sea, lake or river. It usually consists of loose particles which are often composed of rock, such as sand, gravel, shingle, pebbles or cobblestones...
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
Windsurfing
Windsurfing or sailboarding is a surface water sport that combines elements of surfing and sailing. It consists of a board usually two to four metres long, powered by the orthogonal effect of the wind on a sail. The rig is connected to the board by a free-rotating universal joint and comprises a...
, canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing is an outdoor activity that involves a special kind of canoe.Open canoes may be 'poled' , sailed, 'lined and tracked' or even 'gunnel-bobbed'....
, scuba diving
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
Nissi beach
Nissi beach, is a well-known sandy beach in the resort of Ayia Napa, Cyprus.The sandy beach stretches for 500m and the waters are clean enough for the beach to have been awarded blue flag designation. The beach which runs the length of its own cove, takes its name from the small islet located...
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
Blue Flag beach
The Blue Flag is a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education that a beach or marina meets its stringent standards.The Blue Flag is a trademark owned by FEE which is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation consisting of 65 organisations in 60 member countries in Europe,...
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
- the most Blue Flags per capita in the world
- the most dense concentration of Blue Flag Beaches
- the most Blue Flag beaches and per coastline length in the world.
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
Cape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
Sea monster
In Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
Ayia Napa sea monster
The Ayia Napa Sea Monster is a cryptid, claimed to inhabit the coast off of Ayia Napa in Cyprus, a popular tourist resort on the Mediterranean. Most sightings occur around Cape Greco . It is known by the local fishermen as "To Filiko Teras", which translates as "The Friendly Monster"...
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
Porpoise
Porpoises are small cetaceans of the family Phocoenidae; they are related to whales and dolphins. They are distinct from dolphins, although the word "porpoise" has been used to refer to any small dolphin, especially by sailors and fishermen...
and a dragon
Dragon
A dragon is a legendary creature, typically with serpentine or reptilian traits, that feature in the myths of many cultures. There are two distinct cultural traditions of dragons: the European dragon, derived from European folk traditions and ultimately related to Greek and Middle Eastern...
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
Shopping
Cyprus is known for its handicrafts and boutiques, while in Ayia Napa, the shops are interspersed with outlets selling designer sunglasses and watches.Monastery
Ayia Napa Monastery is the best known landmark of the Agia Napa area. It has a charm that represents a time when Agia Napa was a sleepy fishing village. It seems that in ancient times, the location where the monastery and the village exists today, was covered by thick forest, visited only by hunters from the neighbouring villages.Museums and ruins
The town contains a number of museums. The Tornaritis - Pierides Museum of Marine Life was founded in June 1992 in Agia Napa and is located at the lower level of the Town hall. It exhibits past and present marine life, scientifically classified. Its main purpose is to show the marine fauna of Cyprus and the MediterraneanMediterranean Sea
The Mediterranean Sea is a sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by the Mediterranean region and almost completely enclosed by land: on the north by Anatolia and Europe, on the south by North Africa, and on the east by the Levant...
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
Thalassa
Thalassa may refer to:* Thalassa , a primordial Greek sea goddess* Thalassa , a moon of the planet Neptune* Thalassa, a fictional planet in Arthur C...
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
Greeks
The Greeks, also known as the Hellenes , are a nation and ethnic group native to Greece, Cyprus and neighboring regions. They also form a significant diaspora, with Greek communities established around the world....
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
Festival
The Ayia Napa Festival was first held in September 1985 and has been established as an annual event since. It takes place in Sepheris Square in Ayia Napa Monastery. The festivities reflect the historic, cultural and agricultural traditions of Ayia Napa and Cyprus as a whole. The programme includes theatrical performancesTheatre
Theatre is a collaborative form of fine art that uses live performers to present the experience of a real or imagined event before a live audience in a specific place. The performers may communicate this experience to the audience through combinations of gesture, speech, song, music or dance...
, opera
Opera
Opera is an art form in which singers and musicians perform a dramatic work combining text and musical score, usually in a theatrical setting. Opera incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre, such as acting, scenery, and costumes and sometimes includes dance...
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
Ayia Napa Youth Festival
The Ayia Napa Youth Festival was established in 2010 when the Ayia Napa youth council decided to organise a festival similar to the large music festivals of Europe, combining activities and music. The festival is based on several principles such as free entrance, the headliners to be chosen by the public,a charity goal, a social responsibility message attached to it; all styles of music are welcome. At the first festival which took place at the harbour square of Ayia Napa more than 10,000 people visited the festival during the three-day period with bands such as the Greek reggaeReggae
Reggae is a music genre first developed in Jamaica in the late 1960s. While sometimes used in a broader sense to refer to most types of Jamaican music, the term reggae more properly denotes a particular music style that originated following on the development of ska and rocksteady.Reggae is based...
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
WaterWorld themed Waterpark
The Ayia Napa Waterworld themed Waterpark is the biggest waterpark in Europe. Waterworld Themed Waterpark in Ayia Napa has received major international recognition for marketing and Innovation from a spectrum of the Waterpark associations around the globe winning over 25 prestigious awards to date. In our Greek themed world you will find upgraded attractions to entertain children and adults alike, extensive relaxation areas for parents and more playground areas for the kids, ensuring they have a great holiday and a memorable stay in Ayia Napa, Cyprus.Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
World record
Following the proposal of Yiannis Karousos the President of the Ayia Napa Tourism Committee, on September 16, 2007, the world's longest chain of syrtaki dancers (a traditional Greek dance) danced to Zorba the GreekZorba the Greek
Zorba the Greek is a 1964 film based on the novel Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis. The film was directed by Cypriot Michael Cacoyannis and the title character was played by Anthony Quinn...
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.
Gallery
File:Port of Agia Napa.jpg|
File:View of Agia Napa beach located in vicinity of Nelia Beach Hotel.jpg|
File:Hotel in Agia Napa road in the summer Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Road next to a typical hotel during the evening
File:Paradise Ayia Napa street in the early afternoon july Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Main Street Agia Napa
File:Famous Agia Napa loona park in the early afternoon Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Ayia Napa amusement park from the road
File:Сyprus Agia-Napa Amusement Park OM79.JPG|Ayia Napa amusement park
File:Theme The Flintstones cafeteria and bar in Agia Napa Republic of Cyprus.jpg|The Flintstones
The Flintstones
The Flintstones is an animated, prime-time American television sitcom that screened from September 30, 1960 to April 1, 1966, on ABC. Produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions, The Flintstones was about a working class Stone Age man's life with his family and his next-door neighbor and best friend. It...
theme restaurant
File:Cyprus Agia-Napa Restaurant OM71.JPG|Wild West and Russian restaurants
File:Cyprus Agia-Napa Fountain OM104.JPG|Fountain in Ayia Napa
File:Agia Napa church.jpg|Church in central Ayia Napa
File:Church at Konnos Bay.JPG|A church at the south shore of Konnos Bay
File:Thekla-Katakomben.jpg|The catacomb of Agia Thekla
Ayia Napa is a resort
Resort
A resort is a place used for relaxation or recreation, attracting visitors for holidays or vacations. Resorts are places, towns or sometimes commercial establishment operated by a single company....
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
Cyprus
Cyprus , officially the Republic of Cyprus , is a Eurasian island country, member of the European Union, in the Eastern Mediterranean, east of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and north of Egypt. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.The earliest known human activity on the...
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
Ibiza
Ibiza or Eivissa is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea 79 km off the coast of the city of Valencia in Spain. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. With Formentera, it is one of the two Pine Islands or Pityuses. Its largest cities are Ibiza...
, Rimini
Rimini
Rimini is a medium-sized city of 142,579 inhabitants in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, and capital city of the Province of Rimini. It is located on the Adriatic Sea, on the coast between the rivers Marecchia and Ausa...
and Mykonos
Mykonos
Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans an area of and rises to an elevation of at its highest point. There are 9,320 inhabitants most of whom live in the largest town, Mykonos, which lies on the west coast. The town is also...
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
Grime (music)
Grime is a style of music that emerged from Bow, East London, England in the early 2000s, primarily as a development of UK garage, dancehall, and hip hop...
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
Etymology
The name Ayia Napa is derived from a VenetianRepublic of Venice
The Republic of Venice or Venetian Republic was a state originating from the city of Venice in Northeastern Italy. It existed for over a millennium, from the late 7th century until 1797. It was formally known as the Most Serene Republic of Venice and is often referred to as La Serenissima, in...
-era monastery
Monastery
Monastery denotes the building, or complex of buildings, that houses a room reserved for prayer as well as the domestic quarters and workplace of monastics, whether monks or nuns, and whether living in community or alone .Monasteries may vary greatly in size – a small dwelling accommodating only...
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
Nightclub
A nightclub is an entertainment venue which usually operates late into the night...
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
History
According to local legend, the now renowned original icon was accidentally discovered by a hunter in hot pursuit of his prey. Upon discovery, the icon of the Virgin Mary was called Virgin Mary of Napa, eventually shortened and now known as Ayia Napa. The present monastery, built in 1500, was built around the cave, in honour of the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. According to local tradition, until 1790 no-one lived within close vicinity of Ayia Napa. The first inhabitants who actually appeared and settled were twenty men from Salonica, GreeceGreece
Greece , officially the Hellenic Republic , and historically Hellas or the Republic of Greece in English, is a country in southeastern Europe....
.
Geography
Geographically, Ayia Napa lies near Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
Famagusta
Famagusta is a city on the east coast of Cyprus and is capital of the Famagusta District. It is located east of Nicosia, and possesses the deepest harbour of the island.-Name:...
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
Famagusta District
Famagusta District is one of the six districts of Cyprus. Its main town is the island's most important port, Famagusta. The city of Famagusta is currently controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus ....
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
Turkish invasion of Cyprus
The Turkish invasion of Cyprus, launched on 20 July 1974, was a Turkish military invasion in response to a Greek military junta backed coup in Cyprus...
by Turkish
Turkey
Turkey , known officially as the Republic of Turkey , is a Eurasian country located in Western Asia and in East Thrace in Southeastern Europe...
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Tourism
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
and features a number of bathing beach
Beach
A beach is a geological landform along the shoreline of an ocean, sea, lake or river. It usually consists of loose particles which are often composed of rock, such as sand, gravel, shingle, pebbles or cobblestones...
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
Windsurfing
Windsurfing or sailboarding is a surface water sport that combines elements of surfing and sailing. It consists of a board usually two to four metres long, powered by the orthogonal effect of the wind on a sail. The rig is connected to the board by a free-rotating universal joint and comprises a...
, canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing is an outdoor activity that involves a special kind of canoe.Open canoes may be 'poled' , sailed, 'lined and tracked' or even 'gunnel-bobbed'....
, scuba diving
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
Nissi beach
Nissi beach, is a well-known sandy beach in the resort of Ayia Napa, Cyprus.The sandy beach stretches for 500m and the waters are clean enough for the beach to have been awarded blue flag designation. The beach which runs the length of its own cove, takes its name from the small islet located...
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
Blue Flag beach
The Blue Flag is a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education that a beach or marina meets its stringent standards.The Blue Flag is a trademark owned by FEE which is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation consisting of 65 organisations in 60 member countries in Europe,...
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
- the most Blue Flags per capita in the world
- the most dense concentration of Blue Flag Beaches
- the most Blue Flag beaches and per coastline length in the world.
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
Cape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
Sea monster
In Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
Ayia Napa sea monster
The Ayia Napa Sea Monster is a cryptid, claimed to inhabit the coast off of Ayia Napa in Cyprus, a popular tourist resort on the Mediterranean. Most sightings occur around Cape Greco . It is known by the local fishermen as "To Filiko Teras", which translates as "The Friendly Monster"...
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
Porpoise
Porpoises are small cetaceans of the family Phocoenidae; they are related to whales and dolphins. They are distinct from dolphins, although the word "porpoise" has been used to refer to any small dolphin, especially by sailors and fishermen...
and a dragon
Dragon
A dragon is a legendary creature, typically with serpentine or reptilian traits, that feature in the myths of many cultures. There are two distinct cultural traditions of dragons: the European dragon, derived from European folk traditions and ultimately related to Greek and Middle Eastern...
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
Shopping
Cyprus is known for its handicrafts and boutiques, while in Ayia Napa, the shops are interspersed with outlets selling designer sunglasses and watches.Monastery
Ayia Napa Monastery is the best known landmark of the Agia Napa area. It has a charm that represents a time when Agia Napa was a sleepy fishing village. It seems that in ancient times, the location where the monastery and the village exists today, was covered by thick forest, visited only by hunters from the neighbouring villages.Museums and ruins
The town contains a number of museums. The Tornaritis - Pierides Museum of Marine Life was founded in June 1992 in Agia Napa and is located at the lower level of the Town hall. It exhibits past and present marine life, scientifically classified. Its main purpose is to show the marine fauna of Cyprus and the MediterraneanMediterranean Sea
The Mediterranean Sea is a sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by the Mediterranean region and almost completely enclosed by land: on the north by Anatolia and Europe, on the south by North Africa, and on the east by the Levant...
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
Thalassa
Thalassa may refer to:* Thalassa , a primordial Greek sea goddess* Thalassa , a moon of the planet Neptune* Thalassa, a fictional planet in Arthur C...
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
Greeks
The Greeks, also known as the Hellenes , are a nation and ethnic group native to Greece, Cyprus and neighboring regions. They also form a significant diaspora, with Greek communities established around the world....
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
Festival
The Ayia Napa Festival was first held in September 1985 and has been established as an annual event since. It takes place in Sepheris Square in Ayia Napa Monastery. The festivities reflect the historic, cultural and agricultural traditions of Ayia Napa and Cyprus as a whole. The programme includes theatrical performancesTheatre
Theatre is a collaborative form of fine art that uses live performers to present the experience of a real or imagined event before a live audience in a specific place. The performers may communicate this experience to the audience through combinations of gesture, speech, song, music or dance...
, opera
Opera
Opera is an art form in which singers and musicians perform a dramatic work combining text and musical score, usually in a theatrical setting. Opera incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre, such as acting, scenery, and costumes and sometimes includes dance...
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
Ayia Napa Youth Festival
The Ayia Napa Youth Festival was established in 2010http://www.ayianapites.com when the Ayia Napa youth council decided to organise a festival similar to the large music festivals of Europe, combining activities and music. The festival is based on several principles such as free entrance, the headliners to be chosen by the public,a charity goal, a social responsibility message attached to it; all styles of music are welcome. At the first festival which took place at the harbour square of Ayia Napa more than 10,000 people visited the festival during the three-day period with bands such as the Greek reggaeReggae
Reggae is a music genre first developed in Jamaica in the late 1960s. While sometimes used in a broader sense to refer to most types of Jamaican music, the term reggae more properly denotes a particular music style that originated following on the development of ska and rocksteady.Reggae is based...
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
WaterWorld themed Waterpark
The Ayia Napa Waterworld themed Waterpark is the biggest waterpark in Europe. http://www.waterworldwaterpark.com/Waterworld Themed Waterpark in Ayia Napa has received major international recognition for marketing and Innovation from a spectrum of the Waterpark associations around the globe winning over 25 prestigious awards to date. In our Greek themed world you will find upgraded attractions to entertain children and adults alike, extensive relaxation areas for parents and more playground areas for the kids, ensuring they have a great holiday and a memorable stay in Ayia Napa, Cyprus.Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
World record
Following the proposal of Yiannis Karousoshttp://www.yianniskarousos.com the President of the Ayia Napa Tourism Committee, on September 16, 2007, the world's longest chain of syrtaki dancers (a traditional Greek dance) danced to Zorba the GreekZorba the Greek
Zorba the Greek is a 1964 film based on the novel Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis. The film was directed by Cypriot Michael Cacoyannis and the title character was played by Anthony Quinn...
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.Ayia hopes for Guinness record
Gallery
File:Port of Agia Napa.jpg|
File:View of Agia Napa beach located in vicinity of Nelia Beach Hotel.jpg|
File:Hotel in Agia Napa road in the summer Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Road next to a typical hotel during the evening
File:Paradise Ayia Napa street in the early afternoon july Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Main Street Agia Napa
File:Famous Agia Napa loona park in the early afternoon Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Ayia Napa amusement park from the road
File:Сyprus Agia-Napa Amusement Park OM79.JPG|Ayia Napa amusement park
File:Theme The Flintstones cafeteria and bar in Agia Napa Republic of Cyprus.jpg|The Flintstones
The Flintstones
The Flintstones is an animated, prime-time American television sitcom that screened from September 30, 1960 to April 1, 1966, on ABC. Produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions, The Flintstones was about a working class Stone Age man's life with his family and his next-door neighbor and best friend. It...
theme restaurant
File:Cyprus Agia-Napa Restaurant OM71.JPG|Wild West and Russian restaurants
File:Cyprus Agia-Napa Fountain OM104.JPG|Fountain in Ayia Napa
File:Agia Napa church.jpg|Church in central Ayia Napa
File:Church at Konnos Bay.JPG|A church at the south shore of Konnos Bay
File:Thekla-Katakomben.jpg|The catacomb of Agia Thekla
Ayia Napa is a resort
Resort
A resort is a place used for relaxation or recreation, attracting visitors for holidays or vacations. Resorts are places, towns or sometimes commercial establishment operated by a single company....
at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus
Cyprus
Cyprus , officially the Republic of Cyprus , is a Eurasian island country, member of the European Union, in the Eastern Mediterranean, east of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and north of Egypt. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.The earliest known human activity on the...
, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' together with Ibiza
Ibiza
Ibiza or Eivissa is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea 79 km off the coast of the city of Valencia in Spain. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. With Formentera, it is one of the two Pine Islands or Pityuses. Its largest cities are Ibiza...
, Rimini
Rimini
Rimini is a medium-sized city of 142,579 inhabitants in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, and capital city of the Province of Rimini. It is located on the Adriatic Sea, on the coast between the rivers Marecchia and Ausa...
and Mykonos
Mykonos
Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans an area of and rises to an elevation of at its highest point. There are 9,320 inhabitants most of whom live in the largest town, Mykonos, which lies on the west coast. The town is also...
. As of late, it has become particularly popular with the black music community, UK Grime
Grime (music)
Grime is a style of music that emerged from Bow, East London, England in the early 2000s, primarily as a development of UK garage, dancehall, and hip hop...
, House and Garage artists/MCs, and more recently, Scottish grime music for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.
Etymology
The name Ayia Napa is derived from a VenetianRepublic of Venice
The Republic of Venice or Venetian Republic was a state originating from the city of Venice in Northeastern Italy. It existed for over a millennium, from the late 7th century until 1797. It was formally known as the Most Serene Republic of Venice and is often referred to as La Serenissima, in...
-era monastery
Monastery
Monastery denotes the building, or complex of buildings, that houses a room reserved for prayer as well as the domestic quarters and workplace of monastics, whether monks or nuns, and whether living in community or alone .Monasteries may vary greatly in size – a small dwelling accommodating only...
of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing
Nightclub
A nightclub is an entertainment venue which usually operates late into the night...
centre. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.
History
According to local legend, the now renowned original icon was accidentally discovered by a hunter in hot pursuit of his prey. Upon discovery, the icon of the Virgin Mary was called Virgin Mary of Napa, eventually shortened and now known as Ayia Napa. The present monastery, built in 1500, was built around the cave, in honour of the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. According to local tradition, until 1790 no-one lived within close vicinity of Ayia Napa. The first inhabitants who actually appeared and settled were twenty men from Salonica, GreeceGreece
Greece , officially the Hellenic Republic , and historically Hellas or the Republic of Greece in English, is a country in southeastern Europe....
.
Geography
Geographically, Ayia Napa lies near Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
at the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta
Famagusta
Famagusta is a city on the east coast of Cyprus and is capital of the Famagusta District. It is located east of Nicosia, and possesses the deepest harbour of the island.-Name:...
and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria (a name derived from the red colour of its soil). It is a town of Famagusta District
Famagusta District
Famagusta District is one of the six districts of Cyprus. Its main town is the island's most important port, Famagusta. The city of Famagusta is currently controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus ....
, in the remaining southern part of the district not occupied
Turkish invasion of Cyprus
The Turkish invasion of Cyprus, launched on 20 July 1974, was a Turkish military invasion in response to a Greek military junta backed coup in Cyprus...
by Turkish
Turkey
Turkey , known officially as the Republic of Turkey , is a Eurasian country located in Western Asia and in East Thrace in Southeastern Europe...
forces in 1974.
Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and Cypriot locals.
Tourism
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
and features a number of bathing beach
Beach
A beach is a geological landform along the shoreline of an ocean, sea, lake or river. It usually consists of loose particles which are often composed of rock, such as sand, gravel, shingle, pebbles or cobblestones...
es, on which water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing
Windsurfing
Windsurfing or sailboarding is a surface water sport that combines elements of surfing and sailing. It consists of a board usually two to four metres long, powered by the orthogonal effect of the wind on a sail. The rig is connected to the board by a free-rotating universal joint and comprises a...
, canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing is an outdoor activity that involves a special kind of canoe.Open canoes may be 'poled' , sailed, 'lined and tracked' or even 'gunnel-bobbed'....
, scuba diving
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
and speed boating are popular. The Cyprus Tourism Organization supervises the beaches and is responsible for protecting the interests of all tourists. The most popular of these beaches is Nissi beach
Nissi beach
Nissi beach, is a well-known sandy beach in the resort of Ayia Napa, Cyprus.The sandy beach stretches for 500m and the waters are clean enough for the beach to have been awarded blue flag designation. The beach which runs the length of its own cove, takes its name from the small islet located...
, which is visited mainly by younger people in the summer and gets quite crowded; it offers great water sports facilities. Another is the Harbour beach (also known as Limanaki (CTID) or Pantahou beach), which is one of Cyprus' longest, and the longest in Ayia Napa. Harbour beach caters more for families. The New Golden Bay (or Lanta / Landa beach as it is known to the locals) is less crowded, but there are still a number of activities available. Several hotels and apartments are situated on Nissi Road, including Nissi Beach Hotel, Kaos Hotel Apartments among others. All beaches in Ayia Napa have been awarded the EU blue flag
Blue Flag beach
The Blue Flag is a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education that a beach or marina meets its stringent standards.The Blue Flag is a trademark owned by FEE which is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation consisting of 65 organisations in 60 member countries in Europe,...
for their level of cleanliness and facilities. Cyprus, with 53 Blue Flag beaches has three records:
- the most Blue Flags per capita in the world
- the most dense concentration of Blue Flag Beaches
- the most Blue Flag beaches and per coastline length in the world.
The Square, central to the town, is filled with high end restaurants, night clubs and shops, such as The Castle Club and Nikita's.
Ayia Napa has changed its image somewhat over the years, from a fishing village to a Mediterranean paradise and has now found its place as a multicultural town, catering to all tastes.
Ayia Napa has catered to some of the most famous celebrities in the world, such as the Beckham family and Beyoncé. Ayia Napa is also a popular summer destination for various footballers; past visitors having included Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Sol Campbell and boxer David Haye.
Cape Greco
Cape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Agia Napa and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island offering sightseeing, cliff jumping and a variety of other activities.
Sea monster
In Cape GrecoCape Greco
Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco , is a headland in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus. It is at the southern end of Famagusta Bay....
many locals claim that there exists the Ayia Napa sea monster
Ayia Napa sea monster
The Ayia Napa Sea Monster is a cryptid, claimed to inhabit the coast off of Ayia Napa in Cyprus, a popular tourist resort on the Mediterranean. Most sightings occur around Cape Greco . It is known by the local fishermen as "To Filiko Teras", which translates as "The Friendly Monster"...
, reported to resemble a cross between a porpoise
Porpoise
Porpoises are small cetaceans of the family Phocoenidae; they are related to whales and dolphins. They are distinct from dolphins, although the word "porpoise" has been used to refer to any small dolphin, especially by sailors and fishermen...
and a dragon
Dragon
A dragon is a legendary creature, typically with serpentine or reptilian traits, that feature in the myths of many cultures. There are two distinct cultural traditions of dragons: the European dragon, derived from European folk traditions and ultimately related to Greek and Middle Eastern...
, of which there have been only a dozen or so reported sightings and photographs. Some suggest that it is a direct descendant of a creature of prehistoric times.
Shopping
Cyprus is known for its handicrafts and boutiques, while in Ayia Napa, the shops are interspersed with outlets selling designer sunglasses and watches.Monastery
Ayia Napa Monastery is the best known landmark of the Agia Napa area. It has a charm that represents a time when Agia Napa was a sleepy fishing village. It seems that in ancient times, the location where the monastery and the village exists today, was covered by thick forest, visited only by hunters from the neighbouring villages.Museums and ruins
The town contains a number of museums. The Tornaritis - Pierides Museum of Marine Life was founded in June 1992 in Agia Napa and is located at the lower level of the Town hall. It exhibits past and present marine life, scientifically classified. Its main purpose is to show the marine fauna of Cyprus and the MediterraneanMediterranean Sea
The Mediterranean Sea is a sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by the Mediterranean region and almost completely enclosed by land: on the north by Anatolia and Europe, on the south by North Africa, and on the east by the Levant...
, helping the study and research of this part of Natural History, but also to stress the importance and necessity of preserving the marine environment.
Thalassa
Thalassa
Thalassa may refer to:* Thalassa , a primordial Greek sea goddess* Thalassa , a moon of the planet Neptune* Thalassa, a fictional planet in Arthur C...
, the Municipal Museum of the Sea in Agia Napa, is dedicated to the enhancement, promotion and preservation of the marine heritage of Cyprus, from prehistoric times to the present. Located at the centre of Agia Napa, the Museum displays marine artifacts and serves as a centre for educational programmes and community cultural events. The Museum houses sculptures, engravings, ceramics and paintings of seascapes made by some of the greatest 19th and 20th century Greek
Greeks
The Greeks, also known as the Hellenes , are a nation and ethnic group native to Greece, Cyprus and neighboring regions. They also form a significant diaspora, with Greek communities established around the world....
and Cypriot artists.
The Makronissos Tombs are found west of Agia Napa village. They are an ancient burial site, located at a stepped road, which leads down to a rectangular entrance. The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenke slabs.
Festival
The Ayia Napa Festival was first held in September 1985 and has been established as an annual event since. It takes place in Sepheris Square in Ayia Napa Monastery. The festivities reflect the historic, cultural and agricultural traditions of Ayia Napa and Cyprus as a whole. The programme includes theatrical performancesTheatre
Theatre is a collaborative form of fine art that uses live performers to present the experience of a real or imagined event before a live audience in a specific place. The performers may communicate this experience to the audience through combinations of gesture, speech, song, music or dance...
, opera
Opera
Opera is an art form in which singers and musicians perform a dramatic work combining text and musical score, usually in a theatrical setting. Opera incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre, such as acting, scenery, and costumes and sometimes includes dance...
s, concerts and Cypriot and foreign folk dancing.
Ayia Napa Youth Festival
The Ayia Napa Youth Festival was established in 2010http://www.ayianapites.com when the Ayia Napa youth council decided to organise a festival similar to the large music festivals of Europe, combining activities and music. The festival is based on several principles such as free entrance, the headliners to be chosen by the public,a charity goal, a social responsibility message attached to it; all styles of music are welcome. At the first festival which took place at the harbour square of Ayia Napa more than 10,000 people visited the festival during the three-day period with bands such as the Greek reggaeReggae
Reggae is a music genre first developed in Jamaica in the late 1960s. While sometimes used in a broader sense to refer to most types of Jamaican music, the term reggae more properly denotes a particular music style that originated following on the development of ska and rocksteady.Reggae is based...
act Locomondo, the pop-rock band MPLE and the hip hop band Stavento featuring Ivi Adamou. Also 25 bands performed, most of them in the music styles of rock and metal. In 2011 the Ayia Napa Youth Festival will become international and will include the band Stratovarius, Sabaton, Rotting Christ, Nightstalker and 20 bands from all over Europe and Cyprus.
WaterWorld themed Waterpark
The Ayia Napa Waterworld themed Waterpark is the biggest waterpark in Europe. http://www.waterworldwaterpark.com/Waterworld Themed Waterpark in Ayia Napa has received major international recognition for marketing and Innovation from a spectrum of the Waterpark associations around the globe winning over 25 prestigious awards to date. In our Greek themed world you will find upgraded attractions to entertain children and adults alike, extensive relaxation areas for parents and more playground areas for the kids, ensuring they have a great holiday and a memorable stay in Ayia Napa, Cyprus.Not only does Waterworld boast a range of exhilarating attractions in a relaxing and fun environment but also offers the guests a variety of delicious, mouth watering hot and cold meals, snacks and deserts from a choice of the six in park catering outlets. Coupled with the security of the lockers, the great selection of Waterworld merchandise from the Midas Gift Shop and the opportunity for the guests to get their very own souvenir framed photo as they encounter the Greek mythological adventures of Waterworld makes this Themed Waterpark truly a great day out!
Waterworld is open 7 days per week
April & October Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
May–September Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
World record
Following the proposal of Yiannis Karousoshttp://www.yianniskarousos.com the President of the Ayia Napa Tourism Committee, on September 16, 2007, the world's longest chain of syrtaki dancers (a traditional Greek dance) danced to Zorba the GreekZorba the Greek
Zorba the Greek is a 1964 film based on the novel Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis. The film was directed by Cypriot Michael Cacoyannis and the title character was played by Anthony Quinn...
in a successful attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. The chain had a total of 268 members of eight groups dancing in step to Zorbas. Ayia Napa Mayor Antonis Tsokkos said the aim of the event was to send the message that the village was interested in Greek culture and to promote the tourist
Tourism in Cyprus
Tourism occupies a dominant position in the economy of Cyprus.* In 2006 it was expected to contribute 10.7% of GDP.* in real terms it generated CYP£2,598.2 mn ....
resort abroad. Head of the cultural services of the Municipality Maria Tofini said that, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the dancers had to perform in synchronised step for the attempt to qualify. The event drew the attention of tourists and locals, many of whom danced to Zorbas on the beach and in the sea.Ayia hopes for Guinness record
Gallery
File:Port of Agia Napa.jpg|
File:View of Agia Napa beach located in vicinity of Nelia Beach Hotel.jpg|
File:Hotel in Agia Napa road in the summer Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Road next to a typical hotel during the evening
File:Paradise Ayia Napa street in the early afternoon july Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Main Street Agia Napa
File:Famous Agia Napa loona park in the early afternoon Republic of Cyprus.jpg|Ayia Napa amusement park from the road
File:Сyprus Agia-Napa Amusement Park OM79.JPG|Ayia Napa amusement park
File:Theme The Flintstones cafeteria and bar in Agia Napa Republic of Cyprus.jpg|The Flintstones
The Flintstones
The Flintstones is an animated, prime-time American television sitcom that screened from September 30, 1960 to April 1, 1966, on ABC. Produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions, The Flintstones was about a working class Stone Age man's life with his family and his next-door neighbor and best friend. It...
theme restaurant
File:Cyprus Agia-Napa Restaurant OM71.JPG|Wild West and Russian restaurants
File:Cyprus Agia-Napa Fountain OM104.JPG|Fountain in Ayia Napa
File:Agia Napa church.jpg|Church in central Ayia Napa
File:Church at Konnos Bay.JPG|A church at the south shore of Konnos Bay
File:Thekla-Katakomben.jpg|The catacomb of Agia Theklahttp://www.agianapa.org.cy/%28S%28uj0dbv45ebnrmabaga4ebw45%29%29/AyiaNapa/StaticPage2.aspx?pagenb=19650