Limassol, Port city in southern Cyprus
Limassol sits on the Mediterranean coast of Cyprus and extends along a wide coastal strip with beaches, hotels, and business districts. The old harbor lies west of the city center, while the new town spreads east with residential towers and modern facilities.
Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre during the Third Crusade in 1191 at the castle that now stands in the center. The city grew in the 20th century after the loss of the port of Famagusta and became the second-largest city in Cyprus.
Carnival brings thousands to the streets each February, with parades of costumes and music forming the largest celebration in the city. Wine bars and mezze taverns stay open late into the night, while locals sit at outdoor tables sharing plates of small dishes.
The coastal path connects most points along the shore and makes it easy to walk between beaches and restaurants. The old town around the castle can be explored on foot, while newer districts lie farther east and require taxis or buses.
The Commandaria wine region north of the city has produced wine since the 12th century using methods introduced by the Knights Templar. The ancient theater of Kourion on the cliffs west of town still hosts open-air performances with views of the sea.
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