Years and years ago there was a hunter, a king of his own domain, who used to visit the forest of Ayia Napa with his hunting party. He came across a cave and on entering found an icon of Saint Panaya (Mary mother of Christ). On making this discovery, he made the cave into a church and built a small church on top of the caves.
Over the years Ayia Napa has developed into a popular holiday resort due to its beautiful crystal clear blue beaches with golden sands and many tourist attractions. Ayia Napa has become popular and is visited by many people from all over the world.
Ayia Napa Beaches
A cluster of bays forms Macronissos beach. The three bays stretch out in different directions one to the west, second to the southwest, whereas the third one stretches in a southeasterly direction with the result that is well sheltered from winds. It is situated six kilometers west of Ayia Napa. It is not one of the big ones. It has a small island within its grasp and it is within walking distance from the main road taking you to Ayia Napa. It has taken its name from a small old church in that area bearing the same name.
Nissi Beach is only three kilometers west of Ayia Napa. These closely connected twin beaches attract thousands of tourists every year. Nissi, which in Greek means a small island, gives a new dimension to the beauty of the landscape. It is well sheltered from the winds which facilitate all sea sports. There are also cafeterias, pubs, and restaurants in the area.
Sandy Bay Beach is found 400 yards or so east of Nissi Bay. The beach is also fully protected from winds. Facilities for sea sports are provided for and as in the case with most beaches, catering facilities are also offered.
About four kilometers east of Ayia Napa, visitors come to Limnara Beach. Though small it is one of the loveliest beaches, it is well- protected from the winds and here stands the Kermia Beach Hotel Apartments with facilities for all water sports.
This beach stretches from the fishing harbour of Ayia Napa for more than a kilometer and follows an easterly direction. Thousands of people visit it every year .Facilities for all sea sports are provided for. Cafeterias, snack bars and restaurants are abundant in the area. The fishing harbour of Ayia Napa with its small colorful boats adds colour to the view and it is a happy reminder of the past
In between Limnara Beach and Cape Greco stand the Palaces. They do not constitute any particular building but a name for the admirable formations which have been formed on the rocks there. The rocky beach has been sculptured in such a wonderful manner by the sea waves that it gives the impression of being a fine work of architecture. That is why it bears the name of Palace. The reflected light together with the crystal waters form a dreamy picture. This place can only be reached from the sea.
Activities and leisure
There are many things to do in Ayia Napa. A great range of water sports are available. The most popular sport seems to be scuba diving, as the water surrounding the island is warm and crystal clear, with visibility reaching up to 30 or 40 metres. Remains of the ancient ruins can also be found underwater as well as rock gardens filled with sponges. Waterskiing, windsurfing and canoeing are also good options for spend a day in the sun, while paddle and motor boats as well as scooters are available for hire.
Once the sun goes down, party-goers will be happy to find an array of steamy nightclubs. Now known as a ‘party capital’ similar to Ibiza, the city offers the ultimate in clubbing scenes.
Ayia Napa is a place found at the east of the south coast of Cyprus. Ayia Napa got its name from Saint Panaya, which means Mary mother of Christ. Some say that “Napa” is an archaic term for wooded valley, was derived from the fact that this place used to be a thick forest.
There are a lot of famous landmarks that you could pass by as you visit Ayia Napa. There is the Ayia Napa Monastery, which was considered to exist during the ancient times. They say that this monastery used to be surrounded by thick forests and often visited by hunters only.
Museums are also a common tourist spot in Ayia Napa. As a matter of fact, there are several museums that you can visit in this place. The Tornaritis which is the Pierides Museum for Marine Life was founded on June 1992 and can be visited at the Town Hall’s lower level. Its main purpose is to show the residents and visitors of Ayia Napa the marine life in Cyprus and Mediterranean. This place offers a huge collection of the past and present marine life. The organization behind this museum believes that through this, they will be able to point out the importance of marine life. Another museum is the Thalassa, a Municipal Museum of the sea. This is located at the center of Ayia Napa. It contains marine artifacts, sculptures, paintings and conduct educational programs.
Ayia Napa is a place for both the young and old. There are a lot of things this place has to offer. Aside from the wonderful scenery and places, experience a joyful vacation as you are welcomed by the warm residents of this place
Ayia Napa, located southeast of the islands coast, is reputable for its tourist resort all over Europe. It is one of Cyprus's most popular beach resorts. Normally the little village has less than 1000 inhabitants, but during summer season it hosts more than 10.000 tourists per day. The beaches are awesome with thin and fine sand, hidden among a chain of rocky boulders that form many small and cozy bays. The main centre of the district is Paralimni, 3 miles north of Ayia Napa itself. East of the village is Protaras, known for its lively nightlife and partyful people.
Just in the centre of Ayia Napa you’ll find a spectacular monastery at the entrance of an old fig tree. In the court an octagonal fountain which has on its base the founder of the monastery a woman's portrait as well as her mother and father whom they have forbidden her to marry.
Ayia Napa has cleaned up its alternative Ibiza reputation recently and is now much more family orientated.