Our City
Why Larnaca?
As the third largest town in Cyprus, Larnaca has always been known as a family-friendly town with every amenity and facility you need for a family-oriented, Mediterranean lifestyle.
DEFINITION
Sister Cities
Larnaca has formed ‘sister city’ bonds with 19 cities around the world, including Tianjin (China), Tarpon Springs (USA), Marrickville (Australia), Venice (Italy), Odessos (Ukraine), and Novosibirsk (Russia).
International Sporting
Events & Competitions
Shooting Shotgun European Championships in 2012
FIVB Beach Volleyball SWATCH Youth World Championship in 2012
FIVB U21 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships 2014
European Universities Beach Volley Championship 2015
Shooting Shotgun World Championships in 2017
Education
Larnaca boasts a wide range of reputable educational institutions, including several private, English-speaking schools with high standards and stellar achievement records that are well suited for preparing students for entry into universities and colleges across the globe. For students seeking high quality, tertiary British education, Larnaca is also home to the Cypriot campus of the University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN), which is located just 15 minutes from the city center in Pyla.
Sports
Sports fans will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the various sporting activities for which Larnaca is celebrated. Four of 12 first-division football teams of Cyprus are located in Larnaca, while the town’s basketball team is the proud 2015 champion of the Cyprus Basketball League. Larnaca also boasts two futsal teams as well as two of the island’s best volleyball teams.
Natural Beauty
In addition to its cultural and historical marvels, Larnaca is also a place of unique natural beauty. Four of the city’s beaches have been awarded the international Blue Flag for the quality of their waters and the services available. Larnaca’s Salt Lake, located a little further inland, is home to thousands of pink flamingoes that migrate to the island every winter, and just outside of town, one can explore the many picturesque villages where time appears to have stood still, and enjoy a quiet respite from the bustle of the city.
Sightseeing
Larnaca residents and visitors alike have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the many sights and monuments in and around town. From the Byzantine church of Saint Lazarus, which dates back to 890 CE, to the Stavrovouni Monastery, built by Saint Helen, mother of Constantine the Great, in 330CE, which is said to be home to fragments of the Holy Cross; the beautiful palm tree promenade on Larnaca’s main seafront to the Hala Sultan Tekke, or Mosque of Umm Haram, one of the most sacred Muslim shrines.
Quality of Life
Larnaca is a city of warm and welcoming people, sunny weather, and a wealth of history and culture. Originally the site of the ancient city of Kition, dating back to 1400 BCE, through to the Byzantine era and beyond, Larnaca ranks as the world’s 16th oldest town. Today, Larnaca residents enjoy all the amenities and facilities of a modern European town, against a beautiful, rich historical backdrop. Larnaca also ranks among the best cities worldwide for safety, making it the perfect place to build a life, raise a family, or spend your holidays.
Healthcare
Larnaca residents have access to a modern, public hospital and several private clinics that provide high quality healthcare.