‘Thalassa’ Municipal Museum of the Sea

Located in central Ayia Napa, the ‘Thalassa’ museum is a more recent addition to the resort, housed in a modern multi-purpose building. The museum aims to promote awareness of the marine heritage of Cyprus from prehistoric times to the present day. The main exhibit is a life-size replica of a 4th century Greek trading century ship which sunk off the coast of Kyrenia in Northern Cyprus.

Address: Leoforos Kryou Nerou 14, Tel: 00357 23916366
Opening Hours: Monday-closed. Tuesday 18:00-22:00 and Wed-Sun 09:00-13:00, 18:00-22:00

Marine Life Museum

Founded in 1992, the Marine Life Museum is located in the lower level of Ayia Napa's Town Hall. It was the first natural museum of its kind in Cyprus, exhibiting both past and present marine life. The museum’s main purpose is to educate visitors about the importance of preserving marine life in Cyprus whilst promoting the study and research of it. All specimens in the museum were removed from their natural habitat after death.

Exhibits include the reconstruction of a dinosaur seabed, fish fossils, shells, sea urchins, sea turtles, sea plants and more.

Address: Ayias Mavris 25 (within the premises of the Ayia Napa Municipality)

Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 09.00-14.00 and Thursday: 09:00-14:00, 15:00-18:00

The Monastery

Located in the centre of Ayia Napa, close to the village square, the monastery is the best known landmark of the area. In ancient times, the location of the monastery and the village as they exist today, was covered with a thick forest, visited only by hunters from the neighbouring villages.

According to local legend, many years ago a hunter visiting the forest of Ayia Napa came across a cave and upon entering found an icon of Saint Panayia (Mary, mother of Christ). Upon his discovery, he and the rest of the inhabitants of the small village built a small church on top of the cave in honour of his find. The church was named ‘Virgin Mary of Napa’ which was eventually shortened to the name Ayia Napa, and can still be visited today. The monastery of Ayia Napa, was later 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, Greece, and so began the village of Ayia Napa.

Sea Palaces

Situated between Limnara beach and Cape Greco stand the Ayia Napa sea palaces. These rocky cliffs have been sculptured over the years by the sea, forming wonderful formations on the rocks. Although there are no specific structures, the admirable formations give the impression of a fine work of architecture, hence the name ‘palaces’. The reflected light along with the crystal waters form a stunning picture that is best viewed from the numerous boat trips available to this area.

Macronissos Tombs, Ayia Thekla sea shore

20 different tombs dating back to the Neolithic period. Macronissos Tombs are found near the Dome Hotel and Macronissos Hotel, Ayia Napa.
Open daily, Admission free

The Harbour

The newly renovated fishing harbour is another famous landmark in Ayia Napa. A great place to visit anytime of the day or night, the picturesque harbour boasts an array of cafes, bars and fish restaurants. Take a walk along the seafront of Ayia Napa or sit and watch the colourful fishing and cruise boats. A separate square has also been constructed here which hosts various dancing and music events throughout the summer months.