Saint George Church at Trozena village, Pafos

Saint George Church at Trozena 

As we promised ourselves, we returned back to Trozena village to see the Church.

Lucky for us it was open so we could see it also from the inside. Soon we discovered that it was dedicated to Saint George.

As we entered the Church we realized that there was no electricity! So we had to use matches to light up the candles and see more.

The icons, although not of any historical value, were painted by the monks of Stavrovouni Monastery which has its own unique style. This style we have found in some other Churches around Cyprus.

A small sign on the wall indicated that the Church was built in 1885. Probably the village was at its peak at the time, with many residents and economic activity! Another sign told us that it was re-innovated 30 years with the efforts of the same family that helped built it in 1885.

Now it is clear, that although the village is abandoned, someone still takes care of the Church.

As we stood outside, we watched the sun disappearing behind the mountains on the background, and the canyon spreading below our feet. The cool air and the silence of the moment was exactly what we needed to complete our visit.

The Holy Stone of Saint Sozomenos, Gerakies village, Marathasa Valley, Nicosia

 The Holy Stone of Saint Sozomenos 

After we passed the village of Gerakies at Marathasa valley on our way to Kykkos Monastery, we noticed a sign indicating the presence of the Holy Stone of Saint Sozomenos!

It was the first time we came across the existence of such a place and we were eager to found out more.

A little bit later we found the location of the stone and had to walk up the stairs to the mountain peak to see it.

Once we got there, we saw the Holy Stone with an image of Saint Sozomenos on one side. It was clear that many people stop at this location to pay a visit and pray.

Saint Sozomenos is a local Saint who has performed many miracles. It is said that in the past women would take their ill children there to be cured.

Today many people, locals and travellers, still go there to visit the Holy Stone and if you happen to be in the area you can do the same.

 

River at Kalopanayiotis village, Marathasa Valley, Nicosia

River at Kalopanayiotis village-The place Saint Heracledios was baptised

After visiting the Church of "Ioannis o Lambadistis" (Saint John) at Kalopanayiotis, we noticed that we could visit the river just near by.

Going down the stairs to reach the river we didn't know how important that place was. A small sign indicated that in this specific place Saint Heracledios was baptised by Apostle Barnabas in 45 A.C.

So there was an unknown story for us but very important for Christianity in Cyprus.

Needless to say that the scenery was very beautiful and we had the chance to take some very beautiful photos and videos of the river and the small frogs that live inside.

 

A visit at Kalopanayiotis Village

A visit at Kalopanayiotis Village

Kalopanagiotis is a very beautiful village at Marathasa valley near Troodos mountains and the Kykkos monastery.

Our visit is always a pleasure as there are many things to see and experience. Kalopanayiotis is one of the best restored and well preserved villages in Cyprus. The village authorities have managed to gain millions of euros from EU funds to upgrade the village into one of the nicest resorts in Cyprus.

Story has it that Kalopanayiotis took its name from one of two brothers, ( Petros and Panayiotis). Panayiotis was the good brother ("Kalo" means good) and  Petros the bad brother.

The two brothers split and Panayiotis forms Kalopanayiotis village and Petros forms Kakopetria village, which is located on the other side of the mountains ("Kako" means bad).

If you happen to be in the area a visit to Kalopanayiotis is highly recommended!

Crabs in Diarizos river near "Tzielefos" bridge in Pafos

Crabs in Diarizos river near "Tzielefos" bridge in Pafos

"Tzielefos" bridge is definitely one of our favourite destinations.

The beauty of nature in the area is something truly unique and each time we visit we seem to discover more of it!

On our last expedition we visited the area near the bridge of "Tzielefos" and decided to walk by the river, inside the forest. Some of our friends even took their shoes off and walked inside the river.

A little bit later we discovered we were not the only ones there. Small crabs were hiding in the river but we were lucky enough to notice them despite having the same colour as the stones.

Our presence did not seem to be very pleasant to them, so after we took some pictures we let them continue their daily schedule!

Church of "Timiou Stavrou" (Holy Cross), at Pelendri village, Pitsilia area, Limassol

Church of "Timiou Stavrou" (Holy Cross), at Pelendri village 

Pelendri is one of the biggest villages in the area of Pitsilia. When travelling from the mountains of Pitsilia towards Pafos we usually pass from Pelendri.

For the first time we decided to visit the Church of "Holy Cross", one of the oldest and most important Churches of Cyprus. Dating back in 1178 the Church consists of 3 parts unified in one building on different dates.

On the oldest part, which is the Church of the "Holy Cross", one can actually see a piece of the Cross, Jesus was crucified! That alone makes the Church a very special place to visit. Pieces of the Holy Cross have been brought to Cyprus by "Saint Helen", mother of the Emperor of Byzantium, Constantine the Great!

Furthermore the Church has clear influence from the era of the Crusaders. A big wooden Cross with a smaller metal Crusaders Cross inside, is estimated to be between 500-800 years old. On the floor of the Church on one side, someone can clearly see exquisite symbols and bizarre emblems that have not yet been interpreted or identified as to their meaning.

The wall paintings, are of various styles due to the different parts of the Church, but the oldest ones are clearly influenced by the Byzantine era, and are in a good condition at a big part of the Church.

The Church can be visited at any time of the day usually, as Mr Andreas who lives by the Church is always available to open the door and give you an unforgettable tour (for Greek speakers).


       

Cross at Agridia village, Pitsilia area, Limassol

Cross at Agridia village

It was a long time since we last visited my grandfather's village, Agridia.

I have to admit though that I still know few things about this beautiful village. Located near Agros village and in an altitude of 1,100 Agridia has a long history of contributing  in the struggles of Cyprus for freedom.

Our visit was quick this time but we had the chance to visit the highest spot of the village. A place where a big Cross is found with a small icon of Apostle Loucas on the side.

This Cross was constructed with private funding of some local families in memory of their parents. To get there someone has to drive a very steep road and a suitable car is needed, otherwise you can try going on foot.
Lucky for us our driving partner, Skoda Yeti  was exactly what we needed.

Water Ski in Kourris Dam, Limassol

Water Ski in Kourris Dam

Our first stop to see the Kourris dam in Limassol, which is the biggest dam in Cyprus, was more than fun for many reasons.

One of the things that made a nice impression to us is the fact that someone can learn how to water ski!

The first section of the dam as you approach it from the town of Limassol looks like separated from the main part of the dam.

That is probably why it has been licensed for use of water sports.

Church inside the Kourris Dam, Limassol

Church inside the Kourris Dam!! 

Travelling near the Kourris dam was not the first time for us. It was though the first time we explored the area. Kourris is the biggest dam in Cyprus and is located in Limassol City.

Getting near Kourris we came across a Church inside the dam! This was a big surprise for us as we did not expect to see such a thing.

The Church was part of the community of Alassa, a village that is located on the other side of the road. Many years ago the village was moved from its original position so the dam could be constructed.

Nobody though dared to destroy the Church so it was left in its original position. Now according to the rainfalls, one can see part or most of the Church especially during summer time.

The overall scenery around the dam creates a unique atmosphere for spectators who wish to see such a spectacle!

Lion-head stone at Sykopetra village, Limassol

Lion-head stone at Sykopetra 

We left Sykopetra towards Arakapas village, a place we had never been before.

Just outside Sykopetra though, our attention was drawn by a large rock on the opposite side of the mountain.

We immediately stopped to have a better look at it. Its shape on top was much  alike a Lion's head!

That was more than strange to us but it seems that once again nature can make ordinary things look extraordinary!

Who knows? Perhaps there is a hidden story or myth regarding this stone, waiting for us to find out next time!

Tzielefos Medieval Bridge, Pafos

Tzielefos Medieval Bridge 

After our exciting trip from Mylikouri and inside the forest of Pafos we had finally reached the bridge of Tzielefos.

It wasn't the first time we visited the bridge of Tzielefos though. Our first visit was a year ago in August. At that time we passed by the Arminou dam after Agios Nicolaos village.

I still remember my excitement the first time I was there. The second time just re-confirmed my original impression. It is something truly unique!

Its one of those places you just have to visit. The bridge belongs to the era of the Venetians in Cyprus (1489-1571), and is part of a series of bridges around the area. Their main purpose was mainly the movement of goods and minerals.

The origin of the name of the bridge is not clear, but it is believed to mean "empty".

Just near the bridge someone can also see the place where the "Propomacrus Cypriacus" (the Cyprus beetle) lives.

We do advice all who choose to visit to take some time and walk inside the forest besides the river. Its a memorable experience but need to be careful as you will need to cross the river a few times. During summer time you can also enjoy your picnic with the family.

 

Inside Pafos Forest, Mylikouri-Tzielefos bridge route, Part 2

Inside the Pafos forest, Mylikouri-Tzielefos bridge route, part 2 

Our trip inside the forest of Pafos from Mylikouri towards the medieval bridge of Tzielefos had many things for us to see. One of the first was a road leading to the picnic area of Komitigi. Due to our tight schedule we thought to visit that area another time as we learned it is something wonderful to visit.

Later on we found a water source with the date 1945 engraved on the stone. Much to our surprise the water was non stop! Not often someone can find a water source like that, especially on summer time. Naturally it was a chance for us to freshen up before continuing our trip. 

Another thing that impressed us while driving was the plantation on the trees. Like a protective layer or a way of symbiosis between the two, this natural phenomenon made the scenery look a lot like a mythical forest you see in movies. 

As time passed we were getting closer and closer to the medieval bridge of Tzielefos and near the end of our trip, but we all felt so glad to discover that route and drive through it, that we will revisit it for sure! 

Inside Pafos Forest, Mylikouri-Tzielefos bridge route

Inside Pafos Forest, Mylikouri-Tzielefos bridge route 

If you are looking for an expedition that combines beauty of  nature, peace and relaxation, exciting moments, virgin territories,history and in a  good country road then we definitely suggest you try this route.

After leaving Mylikouri village we took the country road inside the forest next to the river that would ultimately lead us to the medieval bridge of Tzielefos!

I have to admit that it is one of the most beautiful routes we have driven so far. Most of all, the road is in a pretty good condition so even a small car can pass through.

One of the nicest moments of the trip was when we found a tree above the river creating a natural bridge!

A visit to the Monastery of "Panagia Amasgou", Monagri village,Limassol

A visit to the Monastery of "Panagia Amasgou"

We had never before visited the Monastery of "Panagia Amasgou" (Holy Mother of Amasgou), but we heard many good things about the monastery and the nuns who live there.

We arrived around midday and we found a lot of people there visiting the monastery.

It was no surprise probably as the monastery is newly constructed and gives a great positive impression from far away.

We visited the Church in the middle of the monastery which was originally constructed in the 12th century! Unfortunately the images inside are not in a good condition but someone can still admire the various painting styles of the 12th to the 16th century.

Later on, one of the nuns took us for a visit in one of the chapels in the main building, and told us the story of the Church and how they managed to build the monastery with little resources when they first started in the 1990's.

Now not only they preserve the monastery but help promote Christianity by constructing and assisting various projects around the area.

We left the monastery relaxed and happy us we felt we made some new friends!

 

Archimandrita River, Pafos

Archimandrita River 

After our visit in the old settlement of Archimandrita that day, we thought of going even further into the mountain to find the river.

Archimandrita like many other villages in Cyprus in the past, were established near rivers in order to survive and thrive.

Our expedition was more than expected! We drove through the river for some time, which still had water and had the chance to admire the scenery around us.

After we stopped we could hear the frogs singing us we walked further into the river exploring nature. As we learned, there is the opportunity for camping near by although few people are aware of that possibility. I guess its like a little secret for the few...!!!

I guess being so close to nature and feeling the peace and quiet, can only make you feel better. That is what we all felt during our visit there!

Monument in Mylikouri village, Nicosia

Monument in Mylikouri village 

After our short stop at one of the coffee shops of Mylikouri we started exploring the village.

Near the Church, on the entrance of the village, we found a monument. On the centre we saw the figures of three missing citizens of Mylikouri. One of them missing since 1964 and the other two from 1974. Achilleas Harpas, Priest Epifanios Ioannou and Christos Aristarhou.

On the one side there is a reference on stone, of all citizens of Mylikouri that contributed in various ways to the development of the village or to the historical events of  Cyprus and Greece. People that even contributed in the Greek liberation fights in 1821!

On the other side there is a reference on stone to all citizens that contributed their services in the Cypriot struggle 1955-1959.

In this way Mylikouri honours all those who excelled with their services to the village, country, or nation despite ideological opinions.

A very positive example worth imitating!

A visit at Mylikouri village, Nicosia

A visit at Mylikouri village

So there we were... after two hours driving inside and around the mountains of Pafos. We had reached Mylikouri village!

Mylikouri village belongs in Nicosia district and is located near Kykkos Monastery, one of the most well known monasteries of Cyprus with thousands of visitors every year.

It was the first time we visited Mylikouri, although it is a very well known village around Cyprus, and we had already visited Kykkos Monastery several times.

For us it was a pleasant surprise since Mylikouri is a very beautiful village. One of the first things that got our attention was the huge rock in the middle of the village. It is something really bizarre, something we saw for the first time in any village in Cyprus. There is the core of the village and even houses are built around this big rock.

The first thing we did though was to visit one of the local coffee shops and try the mahallepi (local summer delight) along with a coffee and relax. Later on we would spend more time discovering the village.

Unknown route!, Pafos-Nicosia

Unknown route!

The afternoon was ours for our next expedition in Pafos. We left Archimandrita village and headed for Salamiou village. From there on we entered the forest of Pafos near the dam of Arminou.

We wanted to visit one of the medieval bridges of the area but we didn't know exactly where it was. So we took the route inside the mountains trying to figure out which road to follow. Needless to say that it was a country road.

We came across a few signs but they only indicated some of the villages in the area and not where the bridge was. So we choose our route blindly in the hope to get there!

It wasn't until some time passed that we realized we were heading the wrong way. The only problem was that there was no way to turn back! The country road we took was narrow, near a cliff, with many stones, and in many places the ground was about to retreat.

Having no choice, we kept going until we find some familiar grounds. After one and a half hour driving we found a place to stop and rest for a while until we decide what to do. Realizing we were on the top of a peak  and the forest was all we could see there was no turning back.

So we kept on driving for another half an hour. Finally we reached a village we had never visited before and we were so glad we finally got somewhere. Where we ended up you can find in the next story tomorrow...

The Church of "Metamorfoseos tou Sotiros" at Palaichori village, Pitsilia area, Nicosia

The Church of "Metamorfoseos tou Sotiros" at Palaichori 

Our short visit at Palaichori village gave as the chance to see one of the most important Churches in the region. The one of  "Metamorfoseos tou Sotiros" (Transfiguration of the Saviour).

The Church is considered World Heritage since 2000 by UNESCO. It was originally constructed in the 16th  century  and is coherent with the design type of the Troodos mountain Churches.

Inside you can see a number of well preserved wall paintings of Venetian painting style, the one that succeeded the Byzantine style.

If you want to visit the Church inside you have to be there in the morning or look for the key from the village authorities.