Limassol - in depth
Limassol is the second-largest city of Cyprus, with a population of 201,257 (2004 census), the largest city in geographical size, and the biggest municipality of the island. The city is located on Akrotiri Bay, on the island's southern coast and it is the capital of Limassol District.
It is the biggest port in the Mediterranean transit trade, Limassol has since then become one of the most important tourism, trade and service-providing centre in the area. Limassol is renowned for its long cultural tradition. A wide spectrum of activities and a great number of museums and archaeological sites are available to the interested visitor. It has a vibrant nightlife and colourful carnivals and festivals. Limassol is also home to the Cyprus University of Technology.
Limassol was built between two ancient cities, Amathus and Kourion, so during Byzantine rule it was known as Neapolis (new town). Limassol's tourist strip now runs east along the coast as far as Amathus, a distance of 16 kilometres and is now the island's largest resort. To the west of the city is the Akrotiri Sovereign Base Area of the United Kingdom.
The famous Troodos mountain range and many wine-producing villages located in the foothills, are to be found here. Limassol is the country's main wine producing area. A medieval castle is also located here, said to have been where Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria.
The local living costs are moderate and Limassol is close to both Larnaca and Paphos airports. Property is a good investment and there are still some great bargains to be found.