Life in Agia Napa

Secrets of Ayia Napa & Protaras
By Georgina Papanikola

Ayia Napa lies near Cape Greco on the eastern coast of Cyprus, south of Famagusta, in an area known as the Kokkinochoria (‘red villages’ - a name derived from the red colour of the soil).

Many people wonder where the name Ayia Napa comes from. The word ‘napa’ is an ancient one and it means ‘wooded valley’. In ancient times this area was covered with thick forest.
Ayia Napa is built on the slopes of a hill and spreads from the summit down to the little harbour, catering for the needs of even the most demanding visitor. At the heart of the town lies the monastery and church of Our Lady. This was built, and rebuilt, over several centuries around a grotto housing a miraculous icon that was, according to legend, discovered by a hunter when his dog led him into a cave lit by a mysterious source of light – the icon.

If you fancy a good walk of about four kilometers through a Nature Reserve area then the Four Churches walk in Protaras is for you.
With breath taking views of the sea and the quiet feeling of being away from it all, this is the perfect antidote to beach and bar.
This beautiful walk gives you a real sense of the history, religion and culture of the area and these treasures are just a stones throw away from the main shopping and restaurant areas.
1. Ayios Elias
2. Ayia Ioannis
3. Panagia Church
4. Saranta Church
This wonderful walk will entrance those interested in the local flora and fauna.

Visit the sea caves located on the lower seafront road and take a gentle stroll along the newly constructed footpath from Ayia Napa to Kermia beach. The caves are beautiful in fine weather but are even more spectacular when the sea is rough - have your camera at the ready.

When you arrive on the island ensure that you take the time to visit the local tourist information centres. The island has many name days and special events that are not always publicised. Tourist information can be found at the following locations:

The Municipal Town Hall in the heart of Ayia Napa is a newly built modern facility where the Mayor and staff of the township work to make Ayia Napa the most innovative and successful tourist resort in the region. The Town Hall also houses the Cultural Centre, which promotes local and international musical events throughout the year, a modern, fully equipped conference centre and a cinema where the latest releases are shown. This is also the home of Thalassia, which is a new museum of the sea and maritime life. Exhibits encompass marine life, ancient coastal settlements and Cyprus’ 9000-year maritime history. It is a beautiful exhibition space and well worth visiting.

The viewpoint on the Cavo Greco road is a place to lose yourself in wonderful views and complete tranquility. Here, you can while away your time contemplating the meaning of life.

Basket making is a feature of Cypriot folk art and traditional baskets are still made in many villages. However, a particular skill and artistry are found in the Kokkinochoria and especially in the Ayia Napa area. The baskets are made principally of the reeds that grow in abundance throughout the country, but wheat stalks are also used. Should you wish to see this traditional art you can visit the village of Liopetri, which is only a short drive from Ayia Napa. The annual Ayia Napa festival offers an excellent chance to see this and many more traditional arts and crafts.