Paralimni – Protaras

Nature and history, merge in front of the endless blue… The popular tourist resort of Cyprus, Protaras, which belongs to the Municipality of Paralimni, has something for everyone: gastronomy, entertainment, attractions for children, cycling routes and of course the best beaches.

HISTORY

Paralimni is the largest Municipality of the free area of Famagusta. It took its name from a seasonal lake (aside the lake) which is formed in the west of the Municipality and is today one of the protected habitats of the NATURA2000 Network. The coastal zone consists of Protaras, Kappari and Pernera. Apart from the beaches, hotels and nightlife, there are many interesting churches and attractions to visit. The roots of Paralimni date back to the Hellenistic period and throughout its history, consisted of small settlements, which were united into a large one in later years. The great tourist and residential development began after the Turkish invasion of 1974 and took place mainly in the mid-1980s.

ANNUAL EVENTS

Flood Festival (Kataklysmos): The celebrations of the Holy Spirit.

I walk against drugs: The Municipality of Paralimni organises a walk along the coastal promenade in Protaras in order to raise awareness about drugs.

Traditional Feast: The Cultural Workshop “Para ti Limni” organises a rich programme with traditional dances and music in Paralimni Square.

Summer Film Festival: The largest Summer Film Festival in Cyprus is taking place with selected films, in Lefkollas Square in Protaras.

MoonWalk: The biggest and most magical musical event of the summer in Protaras. Bands will play live music along the moonlit promenade by the sea.

Christmas in Paralimni: Christmas events are organised in the central square of Paralimni with choirs, carousels and delicacies.

Famagusta Carnival: Every year on Carnival Sunday, a large carnival parade is organised on Protaras Avenue as well as a party in disguise.

Children’s Festival: This annual festival welcomes children with a programme full of entertainment activities, concerts, presentations and face painting at the Paralimni Stadium.

AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS

In Paralimni, farmers mainly grow potatoes and watermelons, but there are also several vegetable crops such as cucumbers, tomatoes, onions and peppers.

DON’T MISS

• Swim in the crystal clear turquoise beaches of Protaras which have been awarded 17 blue flags. It is the Municipality with the most blue flags in Cyprus.
• Swim in Fig Tree Bay, the No. 21 best beach in Europe, according to Trip Advisor.
• Take a walk on the promenade late in the afternoon, enjoy an ice cream or corn on the cob from the kiosks along the sidewalk.
• The taverns and restaurants of Protaras and Paralimni are famous.
• Visit the church of Prophet Elias at sunset. It’s magical.
• Be sure to go to the Moonwalk, the biggest music event of the summer with bands playing live along the promenade of Protaras under the moonlight.

PARALIMNI MUNICIPALITY POPULATION: 15.000 PERMANENT RESIDENTS (2011 CENSUS)

MAYOR: THEODOROS PIRILLIS