Kato Pyrgos
Winner 2010 in the Aquatic Tourism
category
Kato Pyrgos is a small village of just 1500
people situated in the Tylliria area of West Cyprus. Nestled at
the foothills of Troodos mountain range, on the largest and most
enchanting valley of the area, along a beach of unparalleled
beauty and crystal clear blue waters, its natural environment
remains virtually untouched and preserves its natural splendor.
The name Kato Pyrgos originates from the local dialect word
“troulli”, which describes a small, Venetian era, observation
and signaling tower built on a nearby coast side hill,
overlooking the area and whose ruins can still be seen today.
“Troulli” stands for small tower or “Pyrgos” – the Greek word
for tower - and thus the name of the village became “Kato
Pyrgos” (Lower – Tower). Three torrents run through the area.
“Flevas”, “Potamoudes” and “Katouris”, which enter the village
and run through it to reach the sea. For everyone who wants to
marvel at the area’s sights on foot, the Tylliria water dam just
outside the village, is an ideal spot for freshwater fishing and
a bit of hiking.
Begin your journey to the village in the
early morning and take in a deep breath of the mountain fresh
air. Expose your senses to all the aromas of the herbs and the
trees accentuated by the morning dew, listen to the running
streams, the leaves rustling and the birds singing the most
beautiful of songs. One of the most exciting moments of your
journey may be an encounter with a Mouflon, Cyprus’ protected
endemic species of wild sheep. Living gregariously in their
family group, so sweet and graceful in their presence and
naturally curious, they will stop to look at you then dash with
unmatched agility back into the safety of the forest.
The nature and climate of Kato Pyrgos makes
an ideal mix for many cultivations and orchards to flourish.
Fragrant lemons, soft peaches, oranges, spring gardens and so
many other fruits and vegetables tempt everyone with their
unparallel flavours! The village is particularly famous for its
delicious and plentiful figs, either fresh in season, or dried
to be consumed throughout the year.
The village’s small and picturesque fishing
port is a tranquil environment surrounded by mountain hills and
a small archaic type theatre that offer stunning sunsets behind
the shade of the Limnitis rock and the ancient kingdom of Soloi
which tend to underline the long and captivating history of the
island. Visitors can choose between both sandy and pebbled
beaches for some sunbathing, romantic leisurely strolls or
simply to relax and enjoy the spectacular sunsets. The beaches
in the area are some of the cleanest on the island and if you
are lucky you might spot a pod of dolphins playing far out into
the sea!
A handful of tavernas and hotel restaurants
offer freshly caught fish.
Walking up and near the pine tree forest,
there is the tiny chapel of Virgin Mary “Galoktisti”. Another
small chapel in the area is dedicated to Prophet Elias and
visitors there can see some archaeological finds adjacent to it.
Kato Pyrgos is also renowned for its traditional charcoal
production process which in another era used to supply the
entire island with charcoal.
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