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<!--See the Table at Infobox Settlement for all fields and descriptions of usage-->
<!--See the Table at Infobox Settlement for all fields and descriptions of usage-->
<!-- Basic info ---------------->
<!-- Basic info ---------------->
|official_name = Larnaca
|official_name = Larnaka
|other_name =
|other_name =
|native_name =Λάρνακα ([[Greek language|Greek]]) Larnaka or Iskele ([[Turkish language|Turkish]])
|native_name =Λάρνακα ([[Greek language|Greek]]) Larnaka or Iskele ([[Turkish language|Turkish]])
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|image_skyline =Marina larnakas'.jpg
|image_skyline =Marina larnakas'.jpg
|imagesize = 300px
|imagesize = 300px
|image_caption = View of the Promenade from the Marina, Larnaca
|image_caption = View of the Promenade from the Marina, Larnaka
|image_flag =
|image_flag =
|flag_size =
|flag_size =
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|subdivision_name = {{flag|Cyprus}}
|subdivision_name = {{flag|Cyprus}}
|subdivision_type1 = [[Districts of Cyprus|District]]
|subdivision_type1 = [[Districts of Cyprus|District]]
|subdivision_name1 = [[Larnaca District]]
|subdivision_name1 = [[Larnaka District]]
|subdivision_type2 =
|subdivision_type2 =
|subdivision_name2 =
|subdivision_name2 =
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}}
}}


[[File:Larnaca EN.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Concise presentation of Larnaca]]
[[File:Larnaka EN.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Concise presentation of Larnaca]]


'''Larnaca''', ({{lang-el|Λάρνακα}}, ''Lárnaka''; {{lang-tr|Larnaka}} or ''İskele'') is a [[city]] on the southern coast of [[Cyprus]]. It has a population of 12,000 (2001) and is the island's second largest commercial port and an important tourist resort. The island's largest [[airport]], [[Larnaca International Airport]] is located on the outskirts of the city.
'''Larnaka''', ({{lang-el|Λάρνακα}}, ''Lárnaka''; {{lang-tr|Larnaka}} or ''İskele'') is a [[city]] on the southern coast of [[Cyprus]]. It has a population of 12,000 (2001) and is the island's second largest commercial port and an important tourist resort. The island's largest [[airport]], [[Larnaka International Airport]] is located on the outskirts of the city.


To the north of the city lies the island's oil refinery, which has been reduced to a storage facility after the refinery itself has been sold in 2008. To the south is the Larnaca International Airport. The city of Larnaka is well-known for its picturesque seafront which includes rows of [[palm trees]] (oi finikoudes, in the [[Cypriot Greek|Cypriot dialect]]). Larnaca Marina is one of the four official entry points, by sea, to Cyprus.
To the north of the city lies the island's oil refinery, which has been reduced to a storage facility after the refinery itself has been sold in 2008. To the south is the Larnaka International Airport. The city of Larnaka is well-known for its picturesque seafront which includes rows of [[palm trees]] (oi finikoudes, in the [[Cypriot Greek|Cypriot dialect]]). Larnaka Marina is one of the four official entry points, by sea, to Cyprus.


==History==
==History==
{{Main|History of Larnaca}}
{{Main|History of Larnaka}}
{{Expand section|date=June 2008}}
{{Expand section|date=June 2008}}


Larnaca was founded by [[Phoenicians]] and was known as '''[[Kition]]''', or (in [[Latin]]) '''Citium'''. The biblical name '''[[Kittim]]''', though derived from Citium, was in fact used quite generally for Cyprus as a whole, and occasionally by the [[Jews]] for the [[ancient Greece|Greeks]] and [[ancient Rome|Romans]]. Larnaca is colloquially known as "Skala" (Greek: ''Σκάλα'') meaning "ladder" or "landing stage", referring to the town's status in history as an important port.
Larnaka was founded by [[Phoenicians]] and was known as '''[[Kition]]''', or (in [[Latin]]) '''Citium'''. The biblical name '''[[Kittim]]''', though derived from Citium, was in fact used quite generally for Cyprus as a whole, and occasionally by the [[Jews]] for the [[ancient Greece|Greeks]] and [[ancient Rome|Romans]]. Larnaca is colloquially known as "Skala" (Greek: ''Σκάλα'') meaning "ladder" or "landing stage", referring to the town's status in history as an important port.


Like most Cypriote cities, Kition belonged to the Persian or [[Achaemenid Empire]]. In 450 BC, the [[Athens|Athenian]] general [[Cimon]], died at sea defending the city of Citium in a major battle with the Persians. On his deathbed, he urged his officers to conceal his death from both their allies and the Persians. The quote "Και Νεκρός Ενίκα" ("Even in death he was victorious") refers to Kimon. A statue of "Kimon the Athenian" stands proudly on the sea front promenade of modern Larnaca.
Like most Cypriote cities, Kition belonged to the Persian or [[Achaemenid Empire]]. In 450 BC, the [[Athens|Athenian]] general [[Cimon]], died at sea defending the city of Citium in a major battle with the Persians. On his deathbed, he urged his officers to conceal his death from both their allies and the Persians. The quote "Και Νεκρός Ενίκα" ("Even in death he was victorious") refers to Kimon. A statue of "Kimon the Athenian" stands proudly on the sea front promenade of modern Larnaka.


Like other cities of Cyprus, it has suffered repeatedly from [[earthquake]]s, and in medieval times when its harbour silted up (a sign that the island was deforested and overgrazed) the population moved to Larnaca, on the open seafront farther south. The harbour and citadel have now disappeared. Traces remain of the circuit wall, and of a sanctuary with copious terra-cotta offerings; the large cemetery has yielded constant loot from illicit excavations for more than a century.
Like other cities of Cyprus, it has suffered repeatedly from [[earthquake]]s, and in medieval times when its harbour silted up (a sign that the island was deforested and overgrazed) the population moved to Larnaca, on the open seafront farther south. The harbour and citadel have now disappeared. Traces remain of the circuit wall, and of a sanctuary with copious terra-cotta offerings; the large cemetery has yielded constant loot from illicit excavations for more than a century.


[[File:municipality larnaca.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Municipality Square with Hotel Sun Hall in the background, Larnaca]]
[[File:municipality larnaka.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Municipality Square with Hotel Sun Hall in the background, Larnaca]]
Dig practically anywhere in the area from the tennis club past Chrysopolittissa church and you will find evidence of prior civilizations. Much of the yield near the surface is Roman and Venetian. Visit the museum by the Terra Santa Convent to see not only many exhibits but also the dig in their backyard along with Ali Baba's storage jars.
Dig practically anywhere in the area from the tennis club past Chrysopolittissa church and you will find evidence of prior civilizations. Much of the yield near the surface is Roman and Venetian. Visit the museum by the Terra Santa Convent to see not only many exhibits but also the dig in their backyard along with Ali Baba's storage jars.


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|metric_first=yes
|single_line=yes
|single_line=yes
|location=Larnaca
|location=Larnaka
|Jan_Hi_°C = 16.8
|Jan_Hi_°C = 16.8
|Feb_Hi_°C = 16.8
|Feb_Hi_°C = 16.8
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==Landmarks==
==Landmarks==
{{Unreferenced section|date=November 2009}}
{{Unreferenced section|date=November 2009}}
[[File:larnaka paralia.jpg|thumb|Seaside Avenue "Foinikoudes", Larnaca]]
[[File:larnaka paralia.jpg|thumb|Seaside Avenue "Foinikoudes", Larnaka]]
[[File:finikoudes.jpg|thumb|Seaside Avenue "Foinikoudes", Larnaca]]
[[File:finikoudes.jpg|thumb|Seaside Avenue "Foinikoudes", Larnaka]]
[[File:aqueduct larnaca.jpg|thumb|The Old Aqueduct outside the city of Larnaca]]
[[File:aqueduct larnaka.jpg|thumb|The Old Aqueduct outside the city of Larnaka]]
[[File:Larnaka eklisia.jpg|thumb|[[Church of Ayios Lazaros, Larnaca|''Agios Lazaros'' Church]], built over the tomb of [[Lazarus]].]]
[[File:Larnaka eklisia.jpg|thumb|[[Church of Ayios Lazaros, Larnaka|''Agios Lazaros'' Church]], built over the tomb of [[Lazarus]].]]
[[File:Marina Larnaca.jpg|thumb|Marina Larnaca]]
[[File:Marina Larnaka.jpg|thumb|Marina Larnaka]]
[[File:Tekke.JPG|thumb|[[Hala Sultan Tekke]] with [[Larnaca Salt Lake]] in the foreground]]
[[File:Tekke.JPG|thumb|[[Hala Sultan Tekke]] with [[Larnaka Salt Lake]] in the foreground]]


The most important site of Larnaca are the ruins of Ancient Kitium. The earliest architectural remains date back to the [[13th century BC|13th century B.C]]. the area was rebuilt by [[Achaean]] Greeks. The remains of the Cyclopean Walls, made of giant blocks and the complex of the five temples, are particularly interesting.
The most important site of Larnaka are the ruins of Ancient Kitium. The earliest architectural remains date back to the [[13th century BC|13th century B.C]]. the area was rebuilt by [[Achaean]] Greeks. The remains of the Cyclopean Walls, made of giant blocks and the complex of the five temples, are particularly interesting.


Another place of interest is the Marble Bust of [[Zeno of Citium|Zeno]], which stands at the crossroads near the American Academy. Zeno was born in Kition (ancient Larnaka) in 334 BC. After studying philosophy in [[Athens]] he founded the famous [[Stoicism|Stoic]] school of philosophy.
Another place of interest is the Marble Bust of [[Zeno of Citium|Zeno]], which stands at the crossroads near the American Academy. Zeno was born in Kition (ancient Larnaka) in 334 BC. After studying philosophy in [[Athens]] he founded the famous [[Stoicism|Stoic]] school of philosophy.


Near Larnaca International Airport there is the [[Larnaca Salt Lake]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.larnaka.com/ |title=Larnaca Municipality |publisher=Larnaka.com |date= |accessdate=2009-05-05}}</ref>
Near Larnaka International Airport there is the [[Larnaca Salt Lake]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.larnaka.com/ |title=Larnaca Municipality |publisher=Larnaka.com |date= |accessdate=2009-05-05}}</ref>
. It fills with water during the winter and is visited by flocks of flamingoes who stay here from November till the end of March. It dries up in the summer. It used to yield a good quality of salt which was is scraped from its dried up surface.The salt from this lake is now considered unfit for human consumption.
. It fills with water during the winter and is visited by flocks of flamingoes who stay here from November till the end of March. It dries up in the summer. It used to yield a good quality of salt which was is scraped from its dried up surface.The salt from this lake is now considered unfit for human consumption.


About half-way between the monument of Zeno and Salt Lake on the right, there is the underground chapel of Ayia Phaneromeni. It is a rock cavern with two chambers. The structure suggests that it once was a pagan tomb, possibly dating back to Phoenician times. The place is credited with various magical properties: thus those who suffer from headaches or other diseases walk three times round it and leave a piece of clothing or a tuft of their hair on the grill in front of the south window. It is also much frequented by girls, whose lovers are overseas, who come here to pray for their safety.
About half-way between the monument of Zeno and Salt Lake on the right, there is the underground chapel of Ayia Phaneromeni. It is a rock cavern with two chambers. The structure suggests that it once was a pagan tomb, possibly dating back to Phoenician times. The place is credited with various magical properties: thus those who suffer from headaches or other diseases walk three times round it and leave a piece of clothing or a tuft of their hair on the grill in front of the south window. It is also much frequented by girls, whose lovers are overseas, who come here to pray for their safety.


[[Church of Ayios Lazaros, Larnaca|The Church of Lazarus]] (''Agios Lazaros'') is another magnificent Orthodox Church in Larnaca which was built in the town over the tomb of St. [[Lazarus]], the brother of [[Mary, sister of Lazarus|Mary]] and [[Martha]]. He died here and was buried in the church named after him. In 890 A.D. his tomb was found bearing the inscription "“Lazarus, bishop of Larnaca. Four days dead. Friend of Jesus.” The marble sarcophagus can be seen inside the church under the Holy of Holies.
[[Church of Ayios Lazaros, Larnaka|The Church of Lazarus]] (''Agios Lazaros'') is another magnificent Orthodox Church in Larnaca which was built in the town over the tomb of St. [[Lazarus]], the brother of [[Mary, sister of Lazarus|Mary]] and [[Martha]]. He died here and was buried in the church named after him. In 890 A.D. his tomb was found bearing the inscription "“Lazarus, bishop of Larnaka. Four days dead. Friend of Jesus.” The marble sarcophagus can be seen inside the church under the Holy of Holies.


The [[Hala Sultan Tekke]] is about 5&nbsp;km (3&nbsp;mi) west of Larnaka, on the banks of the Salt Lake. It is equivalent to the Christian "monastery". Within the precincts of this Tekke is the tomb of Umm Haram, who was the foster mother of Prophet [[Mohammed]]. According to Muslim historical accounts Umm Haram died on this spot in 647 A.D. while accompanying the [[Arab]] invaders. She was buried here and later the [[Cyprus under the Ottoman Empire|Ottomans]] built the present mosque in her honour.
The [[Hala Sultan Tekke]] is about 5&nbsp;km (3&nbsp;mi) west of Larnaka, on the banks of the Salt Lake. It is equivalent to the Christian "monastery". Within the precincts of this Tekke is the tomb of Umm Haram, who was the foster mother of Prophet [[Mohammed]]. According to Muslim historical accounts Umm Haram died on this spot in 647 A.D. while accompanying the [[Arab]] invaders. She was buried here and later the [[Cyprus under the Ottoman Empire|Ottomans]] built the present mosque in her honour.


Another site of interest is the Fort of Larnaca which was erected by the [[Ottoman Empire|Turks]] in 1625. This fort is now a museum and its inner courtyard is used as an open air garden - theatre during the summer months, by kind permission of the director of antiquities.
Another site of interest is the Fort of Larnaka which was erected by the [[Ottoman Empire|Turks]] in 1625. This fort is now a museum and its inner courtyard is used as an open air garden - theatre during the summer months, by kind permission of the director of antiquities.


The Old Aqueduct known as "The Kamares", stands outside the town on the way to Limassol. It was built by the Ottoman Governor [[Koca Bekir Pasha]] in Roman style in 1745 to carry water from a source about 6 miles south of Larnaka into the town. The aqueduct is illuminated at night.
The Old Aqueduct known as "The Kamares", stands outside the town on the way to Limassol. It was built by the Ottoman Governor [[Koca Bekir Pasha]] in Roman style in 1745 to carry water from a source about 6 miles south of Larnaka into the town. The aqueduct is illuminated at night.
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==Economy==
==Economy==


Larnaca's economy has been growing since 1975 ,after the loss of the Port of Famagusta, which handled 80 percent of the general cargo, and the closure of the Nicosia International Airport meant that Larnacas ports its (airport and seaport) had an increasing important role in the economy of the island)
Larnaka's economy has been growing since 1975 ,after the loss of the Port of Famagusta, which handled 80 percent of the general cargo, and the closure of the Nicosia International Airport meant that Larnakas ports its (airport and seaport) had an increasing important role in the economy of the island)


A €650m upgrade of the Larnaca airport has been completed
A €650m upgrade of the Larnaka airport has been completed


Many travel and tour operators and other travel related companies including [[Eurocypria Airlines]] have their head offices in Larnaca
Many travel and tour operators and other travel related companies including [[Eurocypria Airlines]] have their head offices in Larnaka
.<ref>"[http://www.eurocypria.com/main/default.aspx?tabid=89 Contact Us]." [[Eurocypria Airlines]]. Retrieved on 6 November 2009.</ref>
.<ref>"[http://www.eurocypria.com/main/default.aspx?tabid=89 Contact Us]." [[Eurocypria Airlines]]. Retrieved on 6 November 2009.</ref>


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==Culture==
==Culture==
===Arts===
===Arts===
Larnaca has a theatre and art gallery both run by the Municipality, and is home to the celebrated Pieridis Museum of Antiquities, founded by [[Demetrios Pieridis]]. It is also the location of two art schools, the Alexander College, which specialises mainly in design subjects, the [[Cyprus College of Art]], which concentrates of [[fine art]], and also Intercollege.
Larnaka has a theatre and art gallery both run by the Municipality, and is home to the celebrated Pieridis Museum of Antiquities, founded by [[Demetrios Pieridis]]. It is also the location of two art schools, the Alexander College, which specialises mainly in design subjects, the [[Cyprus College of Art]], which concentrates of [[fine art]], and also Intercollege.


===Music===
===Music===
Larnaca boasts a [[Larnaca Municipal Band|Municipal Band]] of over 60 musicians competent in all [[Musical instrument classification|families of musical instruments]]. Larnaca Municipal Band offers a large repertoire of music, ranging from marching-parade music to Latin, and from Greek favourites to rock and roll. Apart from playing for parades on national holidays, the band also makes regular appearances in various concerts and music festivals throughout Cyprus and abroad, representing both Larnaca and [[Cyprus]] internationally.
Larnaka boasts a [[Larnaka Municipal Band|Municipal Band]] of over 60 musicians competent in all [[Musical instrument classification|families of musical instruments]]. Larnaca Municipal Band offers a large repertoire of music, ranging from marching-parade music to Latin, and from Greek favourites to rock and roll. Apart from playing for parades on national holidays, the band also makes regular appearances in various concerts and music festivals throughout Cyprus and abroad, representing both Larnaca and [[Cyprus]] internationally.


===Sports===
===Sports===
The city is the home to the [[football (soccer)|football]] teams [[AEK Larnaca FC]], and [[ALKI Larnaca FC]]. Both teams play in a stadium of a city called [[GSZ Stadium]] or Zenon Stadium. Since the occupation of the northern part of Cyprus by Turkey in 1974, the two teams of Famagusta, [[Anorthosis Famagusta|Anorthosis]] and [[Nea Salamina]], have their own stadiums in Larnaca. "[[Antonis Papadopoulos Stadium|Antonis Papadopoulos]]" is the Anorthosis' stadium and "[[Ammochostos Stadium|Ammochostos]]" (means Famagusta) is the stadium of Nea Salamina.
The city is the home to the [[football (soccer)|football]] teams [[AEK Larnaka FC]], and [[ALKI Larnaka FC]]. Both teams play in a stadium of a city called [[GSZ Stadium]] or Zenon Stadium. Since the occupation of the northern part of Cyprus by Turkey in 1974, the two teams of Famagusta, [[Anorthosis Famagusta|Anorthosis]] and [[Nea Salamina]], have their own stadiums in Larnaka. "[[Antonis Papadopoulos Stadium|Antonis Papadopoulos]]" is the Anorthosis' stadium and "[[Ammochostos Stadium|Ammochostos]]" (means Famagusta) is the stadium of Nea Salamina.


Larnaca hosted the [[European Under-19 Football Championship]] final, in 1998 and the [[European Under-17 Football Championship]] final in 1992.
Larnaka hosted the [[European Under-19 Football Championship]] final, in 1998 and the [[European Under-17 Football Championship]] final in 1992.


===Festivals===
===Festivals===
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*[[Ada Nicodemou]], actress
*[[Ada Nicodemou]], actress
*[[George Charalambous]], actor
*[[George Charalambous]], actor
*[[Abu Bekr Pasha]], Governor of Larnaca and philanthropist
*[[Abu Bekr Pasha]], Governor of Larnaka and philanthropist
*[[Dimitris Lipertis]], 1866-1937 (national poet)
*[[Dimitris Lipertis]], 1866-1937 (national poet)
*[[Demetrios Pieridis]], 1811-1895 (created the Pieridi Museum)
*[[Demetrios Pieridis]], 1811-1895 (created the Pieridi Museum)
*[[Anna Vissi]], a Greek-Cypriot singer
*[[Anna Vissi]], a Greek-Cypriot singer
*[[Neoclis Kyriazis]], medical doctor and historian
*[[Neoclis Kyriazis]], medical doctor and historian
*[[Mehmet Nazim Adil]], the leader of the [[Naqshbandi|Nakshbandi]] [[Sufism|Sufi]] order (or [[Tariqah|Tekke]]) was born in Larnaca
*[[Mehmet Nazim Adil]], the leader of the [[Naqshbandi|Nakshbandi]] [[Sufism|Sufi]] order (or [[Tariqah|Tekke]]) was born in Larnaka
*[[Kyriacos A. Athanasiou]], a Cypriot-American academic, entrepreneur, and past-president of the Biomedical Engineering Society
*[[Kyriacos A. Athanasiou]], a Cypriot-American academic, entrepreneur, and past-president of the Biomedical Engineering Society
*[[Stass Paraskos]], Artist
*[[Stass Paraskos]], Artist
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==Municipal Council==
==Municipal Council==


The mayor of Larnaca is Andreas Moiseos and the deputy mayor is [[Alexis Michaelides]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://michaelidesalexis.blogspot.com/ |title=Alexis Michaelides |publisher=Michaelidesalexis.blogspot.com |date=2009-03-21 |accessdate=2009-05-05}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.michaelidesalexis.com/ |title=NETinfo |publisher=Michaelidesalexis.com |date= |accessdate=2009-05-05}}</ref>.
The mayor of Larnaka is Andreas Moiseos and the deputy mayor is [[Alexis Michaelides]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://michaelidesalexis.blogspot.com/ |title=Alexis Michaelides |publisher=Michaelidesalexis.blogspot.com |date=2009-03-21 |accessdate=2009-05-05}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.michaelidesalexis.com/ |title=NETinfo |publisher=Michaelidesalexis.com |date= |accessdate=2009-05-05}}</ref>.


The members of the council, according to political party are:
The members of the council, according to political party are:
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==Transport==
==Transport==
[[File:LCA_Airport_1.jpg|thumb|[[Larnaca International Airport]]]]
[[File:LCA_Airport_1.jpg|thumb|[[Larnaka International Airport]]]]
[[Larnaca International Airport]] in Larnaca is the main international airport in Cyprus.
[[Larnaka International Airport]] in Larnaka is the main international airport in Cyprus.


==International relations==
==International relations==
===Twin towns — Sister cities===
===Twin towns — Sister cities===
Larnaca Municipality is [[town twinning|twinned]] with the following:
Larnaka Municipality is [[town twinning|twinned]] with the following:
{| cellpadding="10"
{| cellpadding="10"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
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==See also==
==See also==
*[[Larnaca International Airport]]
*[[Larnaka International Airport]]
*[[Larnaca District]]
*[[Larnaka District]]
*[[Kittim]]
*[[Kittim]]


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{{Municipalities of Cyprus}}
{{Municipalities of Cyprus}}
{{Larnaca District}}
{{Larnaka District}}
{{Ancient Cities of Cyprus}}
{{Ancient Cities of Cyprus}}
{{Phoenician cities and colonies navbox|state=collapsed}}
{{Phoenician cities and colonies navbox|state=collapsed}}


[[Category:Ancient Greek cities]]
[[Category:Ancient Greek cities]]
[[Category:Cities, towns and villages in Larnaca District]]
[[Category:Cities, towns and villages in Larnaka District]]
[[Category:Phoenician colonies]]
[[Category:Phoenician colonies]]
[[Category:Mediterranean port cities and towns in Cyprus]]
[[Category:Mediterranean port cities and towns in Cyprus]]
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[[cv:Ларнака]]
[[cv:Ларнака]]
[[cs:Larnaka]]
[[cs:Larnaka]]
[[da:Larnaca]]
[[da:Larnaka]]
[[de:Larnaka]]
[[de:Larnaka]]
[[et:Larnaca]]
[[et:Larnaka]]
[[el:Λάρνακα]]
[[el:Λάρνακα]]
[[es:Lárnaca]]
[[es:Lárnaka]]
[[fa:لارناکا]]
[[fa:لارناکا]]
[[fr:Larnaca]]
[[fr:Larnaka]]
[[hr:Larnaka]]
[[hr:Larnaka]]
[[id:Larnaca]]
[[id:Larnaka]]
[[it:Larnaca]]
[[it:Larnaka]]
[[he:לרנקה]]
[[he:לרנקה]]
[[ka:ლარნაკა]]
[[ka:ლარნაკა]]
[[lt:Larnaka]]
[[lt:Larnaka]]
[[hu:Lárnaka]]
[[hu:Lárnaka]]
[[nl:Larnaca]]
[[nl:Larnaka]]
[[ja:ラルナカ]]
[[ja:ラルナカ]]
[[no:Larnaka]]
[[no:Larnaka]]
[[nn:Larnaka]]
[[nn:Larnaka]]
[[pl:Larnaka]]
[[pl:Larnaka]]
[[pt:Larnaca]]
[[pt:Larnaka]]
[[ro:Larnaca]]
[[ro:Larnaka]]
[[ru:Ларнака]]
[[ru:Ларнака]]
[[sk:Larnaka]]
[[sk:Larnaka]]
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[[sh:Larnaka]]
[[sh:Larnaka]]
[[fi:Larnaka]]
[[fi:Larnaka]]
[[sv:Larnaca]]
[[sv:Larnaka]]
[[tr:Larnaka]]
[[tr:Larnaka]]
[[uk:Ларнака]]
[[uk:Ларнака]]
[[war:Larnaca]]
[[war:Larnaka]]
[[zh:拉纳卡]]
[[zh:拉纳卡]]

Revision as of 05:31, 29 March 2010

Larnaka
Λάρνακα (Greek) Larnaka or Iskele (Turkish)
Municipality
View of the Promenade from the Marina, Larnaka
View of the Promenade from the Marina, Larnaka
Country Cyprus
DistrictLarnaka District
Government
 • MayorAndreas Moyseos
 • Vice MayorΑlexis Michaelides
Population
 (2001)
 • Total12,000
Time zoneUTC+2 (EET)
 • Summer (DST)UTC+3 (EEST)
Websitewww.larnaka.com
File:Larnaka EN.jpg
Concise presentation of Larnaca

Larnaka, (Greek: Λάρνακα, Lárnaka; Turkish: Larnaka or İskele) is a city on the southern coast of Cyprus. It has a population of 12,000 (2001) and is the island's second largest commercial port and an important tourist resort. The island's largest airport, Larnaka International Airport is located on the outskirts of the city.

To the north of the city lies the island's oil refinery, which has been reduced to a storage facility after the refinery itself has been sold in 2008. To the south is the Larnaka International Airport. The city of Larnaka is well-known for its picturesque seafront which includes rows of palm trees (oi finikoudes, in the Cypriot dialect). Larnaka Marina is one of the four official entry points, by sea, to Cyprus.

History

Main article: History of Larnaka

Larnaka was founded by Phoenicians and was known as Kition, or (in Latin) Citium. The biblical name Kittim, though derived from Citium, was in fact used quite generally for Cyprus as a whole, and occasionally by the Jews for the Greeks and Romans. Larnaca is colloquially known as "Skala" (Greek: Σκάλα) meaning "ladder" or "landing stage", referring to the town's status in history as an important port.

Like most Cypriote cities, Kition belonged to the Persian or Achaemenid Empire. In 450 BC, the Athenian general Cimon, died at sea defending the city of Citium in a major battle with the Persians. On his deathbed, he urged his officers to conceal his death from both their allies and the Persians. The quote "Και Νεκρός Ενίκα" ("Even in death he was victorious") refers to Kimon. A statue of "Kimon the Athenian" stands proudly on the sea front promenade of modern Larnaka.

Like other cities of Cyprus, it has suffered repeatedly from earthquakes, and in medieval times when its harbour silted up (a sign that the island was deforested and overgrazed) the population moved to Larnaca, on the open seafront farther south. The harbour and citadel have now disappeared. Traces remain of the circuit wall, and of a sanctuary with copious terra-cotta offerings; the large cemetery has yielded constant loot from illicit excavations for more than a century.

File:Municipality larnaka.jpg
Municipality Square with Hotel Sun Hall in the background, Larnaca

Dig practically anywhere in the area from the tennis club past Chrysopolittissa church and you will find evidence of prior civilizations. Much of the yield near the surface is Roman and Venetian. Visit the museum by the Terra Santa Convent to see not only many exhibits but also the dig in their backyard along with Ali Baba's storage jars.

The fort on Larnaca seafront has recently been opened up for better viewing by the removal of the Megalos Pefkos (the Big Tree) and a few other illegal restaurants set up on the sea front by refugees after the 1974 invasion.

Climate

Climate data for Larnaka
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Source: Meteorological Service (Cyprus)[1]

Landmarks

File:Larnaka paralia.jpg
Seaside Avenue "Foinikoudes", Larnaka
Seaside Avenue "Foinikoudes", Larnaka
File:Aqueduct larnaka.jpg
The Old Aqueduct outside the city of Larnaka
File:Larnaka eklisia.jpg
Agios Lazaros Church, built over the tomb of Lazarus.
File:Marina Larnaka.jpg
Marina Larnaka
Hala Sultan Tekke with Larnaka Salt Lake in the foreground

The most important site of Larnaka are the ruins of Ancient Kitium. The earliest architectural remains date back to the 13th century B.C. the area was rebuilt by Achaean Greeks. The remains of the Cyclopean Walls, made of giant blocks and the complex of the five temples, are particularly interesting.

Another place of interest is the Marble Bust of Zeno, which stands at the crossroads near the American Academy. Zeno was born in Kition (ancient Larnaka) in 334 BC. After studying philosophy in Athens he founded the famous Stoic school of philosophy.

Near Larnaka International Airport there is the Larnaca Salt Lake[2] . It fills with water during the winter and is visited by flocks of flamingoes who stay here from November till the end of March. It dries up in the summer. It used to yield a good quality of salt which was is scraped from its dried up surface.The salt from this lake is now considered unfit for human consumption.

About half-way between the monument of Zeno and Salt Lake on the right, there is the underground chapel of Ayia Phaneromeni. It is a rock cavern with two chambers. The structure suggests that it once was a pagan tomb, possibly dating back to Phoenician times. The place is credited with various magical properties: thus those who suffer from headaches or other diseases walk three times round it and leave a piece of clothing or a tuft of their hair on the grill in front of the south window. It is also much frequented by girls, whose lovers are overseas, who come here to pray for their safety.

The Church of Lazarus (Agios Lazaros) is another magnificent Orthodox Church in Larnaca which was built in the town over the tomb of St. Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha. He died here and was buried in the church named after him. In 890 A.D. his tomb was found bearing the inscription "“Lazarus, bishop of Larnaka. Four days dead. Friend of Jesus.” The marble sarcophagus can be seen inside the church under the Holy of Holies.

The Hala Sultan Tekke is about 5 km (3 mi) west of Larnaka, on the banks of the Salt Lake. It is equivalent to the Christian "monastery". Within the precincts of this Tekke is the tomb of Umm Haram, who was the foster mother of Prophet Mohammed. According to Muslim historical accounts Umm Haram died on this spot in 647 A.D. while accompanying the Arab invaders. She was buried here and later the Ottomans built the present mosque in her honour.

Another site of interest is the Fort of Larnaka which was erected by the Turks in 1625. This fort is now a museum and its inner courtyard is used as an open air garden - theatre during the summer months, by kind permission of the director of antiquities.

The Old Aqueduct known as "The Kamares", stands outside the town on the way to Limassol. It was built by the Ottoman Governor Koca Bekir Pasha in Roman style in 1745 to carry water from a source about 6 miles south of Larnaka into the town. The aqueduct is illuminated at night.

Economy

Larnaka's economy has been growing since 1975 ,after the loss of the Port of Famagusta, which handled 80 percent of the general cargo, and the closure of the Nicosia International Airport meant that Larnakas ports its (airport and seaport) had an increasing important role in the economy of the island)

A €650m upgrade of the Larnaka airport has been completed

Many travel and tour operators and other travel related companies including Eurocypria Airlines have their head offices in Larnaka .[3]

The service sector, including tourism, employs three quarters of larnaca's labor force.

Culture

Arts

Larnaka has a theatre and art gallery both run by the Municipality, and is home to the celebrated Pieridis Museum of Antiquities, founded by Demetrios Pieridis. It is also the location of two art schools, the Alexander College, which specialises mainly in design subjects, the Cyprus College of Art, which concentrates of fine art, and also Intercollege.

Music

Larnaka boasts a Municipal Band of over 60 musicians competent in all families of musical instruments. Larnaca Municipal Band offers a large repertoire of music, ranging from marching-parade music to Latin, and from Greek favourites to rock and roll. Apart from playing for parades on national holidays, the band also makes regular appearances in various concerts and music festivals throughout Cyprus and abroad, representing both Larnaca and Cyprus internationally.

Sports

The city is the home to the football teams AEK Larnaka FC, and ALKI Larnaka FC. Both teams play in a stadium of a city called GSZ Stadium or Zenon Stadium. Since the occupation of the northern part of Cyprus by Turkey in 1974, the two teams of Famagusta, Anorthosis and Nea Salamina, have their own stadiums in Larnaka. "Antonis Papadopoulos" is the Anorthosis' stadium and "Ammochostos" (means Famagusta) is the stadium of Nea Salamina.

Larnaka hosted the European Under-19 Football Championship final, in 1998 and the European Under-17 Football Championship final in 1992.

Festivals

Much of the activity is centered around the city promenade during the major festivals. The most important of these is Kataklysmos or the Festival of the Flood, celebrated in early summer with a series of cultural events. The festival used to last for about a week, but in recent years, with the increased commercialism of peripheral stalls, rides and temporary loukmades restaurants (a sweet delicacy) it has extended to about three weeks, during which the seafront is closed to traffic in the evenings.

Notable people

Municipal Council

The mayor of Larnaka is Andreas Moiseos and the deputy mayor is Alexis Michaelides[4][5].

The members of the council, according to political party are:

Akel
Zaouras Ioannis
Zaouras Ioannis
Melekkis Andreas
Grigoriou Grigoris
Antoniou Chrystalla
Nikolaou Floros
Xenofon Kyriakides
Koukouma Marios
Christofidou Leontiadou Emily
Georgiou Nikolas
DISY
Louka Eleni
Anastasiou Stasis Nikos
Kasoulidou Annoula
Evangelou Afxentis
Manoli Theologos
Tsaggari Floros
Sofroniou Lakis
Plastira Ilias
Tsigaridou Eleni
DIKO
Alexis Michaelides
Iasonides Iasonas
Vovides Takis
Trifonos Trifonas
Prokopiou Georgios
Pitsillides Michalakis
EDEK
Kitipos Panayiotis
EVROKO
Elia Elias

Transport

File:LCA Airport 1.jpg
Larnaka International Airport

Larnaka International Airport in Larnaka is the main international airport in Cyprus.

International relations

Twin towns — Sister cities

Larnaka Municipality is twinned with the following:

See also

Notes

References

  1. ^ "Meteorological Service - Climatological and Meteorological Reports". {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |dateformat= ignored (help)
  2. ^ "Larnaca Municipality". Larnaka.com. Retrieved 2009-05-05.
  3. ^ "Contact Us." Eurocypria Airlines. Retrieved on 6 November 2009.
  4. ^ "Alexis Michaelides". Michaelidesalexis.blogspot.com. 2009-03-21. Retrieved 2009-05-05.
  5. ^ "NETinfo". Michaelidesalexis.com. Retrieved 2009-05-05.
  6. ^ "Bratislava City - Twin Towns". © 2003-2008 Bratislava-City.sk. Retrieved 2008-10-26.
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