Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Archaeologists have traced the island's winemaking history back to around 4000 BC, with amphorae, wine jugs
and even grape pips excavated in the Lemesos region, suggesting Cyprus could be the oldest wine manufacturer
on earth. Wine god Dionysos is making his presence felt once more, as Cypriot wines are growing in stature and
popularity, perhaps regaining their former glory.
Troödos, with its fertile hills and valleys, is where some of the island's finest grapes are cultivated. Indigenous
mavro (dark red grapes) and xynisteri (white grapes) vines are cultivated here, along with 11 other varieties. They
contribute to red wines such as ofthalmo, maratheftiko, cabernet sauvignon, mataro, mavro, lefkada and shiraz,
and to whites such as xynisteri, sauvignon blanc and chardonnay.
Around Kakopetria
These valleys are great for hiking and picnics, as well as being home to some of the area's
most historic churches.
1
Sights
Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis
CHURCH
(
h
9am-6pm Tue-Sat, 11am-4pm Sun)
This Unesco-listed church, known in English as St Nicholas of the Roof because of its
large, heavy-pitched top, was founded in the 11th century and contains frescos which are a
mix of images and styles, the best including the Crucifixion and the Nativity. The dome
and narthex were added in the 15th century, along with the roof, to protect against the re-
gion's snowfall.
Situated 5km north of Kakopetria, it was originally part of a monastery complex.
Panagia tis Podythou
CHURCH
(
%
2292 2393; Galata;
h
sporadic)
Located in the village of Galata, on the Nicosia road, is this 16th-century Unesco-listed
church that was established in 1502 by Dimitrios de Coron, a Greek military officer, in the
service of James II (King of Cyprus). It was occupied by monks until the 1950s.
Internally, its 17th-century frescos cover the pediment of both the east and west walls.
The two striking frescos on the north and south walls appear uncompleted. They depict
the apostles, Peter and Paul, in a Renaissance-influenced (Italo-Byzantine) style with
vivid colours that provide a three-dimensional appearance.
