Yeroskipou is a small yet vibrant and historic town located in the heart of the beautiful island of Cyprus and is known for being the birthplace of the famous liquor, ‘Commandaria’. The town, however, has a lot more to offer than just this, with a fascinating and colourful history and a whole host of interesting sights and experiences to be enjoyed by visitors.
In this post, we will explore the fascinating history and culture of Yeroskipou and also explore some of the reasons why it is known as the town of Commandaria. We will also provide some interesting facts about this amazing town as well as useful information that may come in handy for those planning a visit.
Table of Contents
1. Yeroskipou is the second largest town in Paphos, located on the southern coast of Cyprus.
2. It was the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Ancient Greek goddess of love and fertility.
3. The city has a very old history and there are ruins from the Iron Age, the Roman period and the Middle Ages.
4. In the 17th century, Yeroskipou was known for making the best village bread in all of Cyprus.
5. The town is home to the world’s oldest freestanding Christian church—the Church of Saint Lazarus—which dates back to AD 500.
6. Every year in September, Yeroskipou hosts the K.E.P. (Kallikratis Expansion Program), a traditional music, song and dance festival.
7. The town is famous for its sweet and delicious dessert, the ‘Toufactos’, a baklava-like pastry.
8. The traditional municipality of Yeroskipou is built on an area with the same name and includes the small rural communities of Stavrokonnou and Koniavos.
Yeroskipou is a town located in the Paphos District in Cyprus. The name of the town is derived from two Greek words: “eros” (love) and “kipos” (garden). Thus, Yeroskipou means “love garden”. The town is known for its famous Byzantine Church, and its traditional needlework industry.
The town is one of the oldest inhabited settlements in the district and was possibly founded in the 10th century BC by the Mycenaean and Phoenician settlers who made their way to Cyprus. In the 5th century BC, it was a centre of pottery and metalworking.
During the Early Christian period, Yeroskipou became an important centre of Christianity. The city was known for its famous Church of Agia Paraskevi, which was originally established by the Byzantines around the 7th century AD. However, it was significantly extended and expanded by the Lusignan Dynasty, who made it an important religious centre.
The town prospered during the medieval period, especially the 16th century. During this period, Yeroskipou was known for its fine embroidery and weaving, as well as for its unique art of cheese-making. From the 19th century onward, the town also became renowned for its traditional wooden goods and hand-made ceramics.
The area surrounding Yeroskipou is also known for its natural beauty, and is the perfect place to explore the west coast of Cyprus. In recent years, the district has seen an increase in tourism, with many visitors coming to experience the town’s history, cultural heritage, and its unsurpassable coastal scenery.
Yeroskipou is a small town located in the Paphos District of Cyprus. It is a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and traditional Cypriot culture. Here are 10 of the best things that Yeroskipou is known for:
Yeroskipou is a city in the Paphos District of Cyprus located 6 km east of the town of Paphos. With a population of 7,000 people, it is the second largest municipality in the district after the city of Paphos. Situated on an inland plain near the Paphos harbour, it is primarily a farming region.
A popular tourist destination, Yeroskipou offers some great historical sites such as Saint George Church, a Byzantine Church of the Panagia which is a short drive from the centre of Yeroskipou and the Municipal Museum of Yeroskipou which is located in the old Town Hall. The main attraction for tourists is the traditional Cypriot ice-cream called “Katimeria” that is served in the famous Saint Espen’s cheese sweets.
Nature enthusiasts can take advantage of some of the amazing local walks with numerous footpaths between the ancient Tombs of the Kings and other local villages. Yeroskipou also offers a variety of activities and attractions such as kite surfing, sailing, bowling, go-karting, water-skiing, beach volleyball, fishing and golf.
Accommodation in Yeroskipou is mostly limited to hotels and rental apartments. Most are situated close to the beaches and offer great views of the sea. There are also a number of restaurants promoting local Cypriot cuisine and other international cuisines.
For those looking for a great shopping experience, Yeroskipou offers a wide selection of shops, fashion boutiques, souvenir shops and grocery stores. For a bit of something different, head to the nearby market in Peyia village for local homemade souvenirs, jewellery, aromatherapy oils and handmade crafts.
The main transport available in Yeroskipou is taxis and buses which run frequently to neighbouring towns and villages. There is also a car hire agency in the city centre.
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1. Visit The Church of Panagia Tripiotissa: This beautiful church is renowned for its impressive architecture, stunning interior and charming atmosphere. Take a tour of this site to learn about its fascinating history, including its origin and significance in the region.
2. See the Kamares Aqueduct: Remnants of a 17th century aqueduct constructed by the Ottomans, the Kamares Aqueduct serves as an important reminder of Yeroskipou’s past. This site has become a popular tourist attraction for its intricate design and architectural beauty.
3. Explore Kolona Salt Lake: A great spot for bird watching and nature exploration, Kolona Salt Lake is one of Yeroskipou’s best-known attractions. Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the lake, or take a boat ride to explore the area and its bird life.
4. Attend The Epiphania Festival: This traditional celebration occurs on the 12th of January of each year and features live music and entertainment. Celebrate along with locals and enjoy the traditional folk costumes and dancing.
5. Tour the Yeroskipou Folklore Museum: Take a tour of this museum and explore the area’s culture and history. This collection includes unique artifacts, paintings, and furniture as well as interactive displays.
6. Visit Yeroskipou Beach: Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea at Yeroskipou Beach. This strip of beautiful golden sand boasts crystal-clear waters and plenty of amenities, making it the perfect location for a day trip or beach vacation.
7. Spend An Afternoon At The Yeroskipou Market: Take advantage of the local shopping opportunities at the Yeroskipou Market, an open-air flea market featuring handcrafted items, clothing, and accessories. Sample local snacks, buy souvenirs, and explore the many stalls.
8. Explore The Monastery of Agia Paraskevi & Agios Yorgos: Discover the beauty of the nearby Agia Paraskevi and Agios Yorgos Monasteries, both of which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and nearby mountain summits. Take a tour and learn about the history and significance of these religious sites in the region.