| This port city in Greek Cyprus (pop. 50,000) is the site of the main international airport.
Larnaca, although modern, is strongly connected to it's history. After Saint Lazarus's resurrection he became the first bishop of Larnaca. Agios Lazarus was built where the saints remains were found, to honour him. The church of saint lazarus, which is situated close to the phinikoudes beach, is open at all times but also has weekly tours where visitor's discover it's vast history.
Larnaca offers limited sightseeing attractions: Most visitors arrive and then leave quickly. If you do find yourself in Larnaca, spend time on the beaches, or tour the Ayia Phaneromeni Church (to see its icons) and the 9th-century Byzantine Church of St. Lazarus, which is reputed to hold the remains of the saint.
The main international airport is in Larnaca, which means if you're holidays are in larnaca travelling is quick and easy. Close-by is Larnaca's salt lake where you can see many migrant birds, mainly flamingos. In the same area is Hala Sultan Tekke, a complex made up of a mosque, a mausoleum and a minaret. It's believed to be one of the holiest sites in Islam and the most important location for muslims in Cyprus.
In the winter, the nearby Great Salt Lake is home to thousands of pink flamingos. Close by the lake you'll also find the tekke (grave) of Hala Sultan, an aunt of Muhammad. Other excursions can be made to Kitian (an ancient city), the Temple of Astarte (13th century BC) and the Church of Panayia Angeloktistos in Kiti (excellent 7th-century Byzantine mosaics).
The phinikoudes promenade, famed for its palm trees, suitably named due to the fact that phinikia translated into english means palm tree. The beach is suitable for all ages and a favourite with the tourists. And in the evening the phinikoudes seafront offers the best night out in larnaca, with countless choices of pubs, bars, restaurants and clubs, which have events mostly during the summer and bring world famous dj's to ensure a great night out.
Nearby are the towns of Lefkara and Ayia Napa, the Neolithic settlement of Khirokitia , Stavrovouni Monastery and Kornos (a village with wonderful pottery). 25 mi/40 km southeast of Nicosia.
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