History

Legends & History
There are a number of sites of historic and legendary interest on the island. The Troodos Mountains are rich in Byzantine monasteries and churches, many of which contain exquisite frescoes. The present monastery, built in1500, was built around the cave, in honor of the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. According to local tradition, until 1790 no-one lived within close vicinity of Ayia Napa. The first inhabitants who actually appeared and settled were twenty men from Salonica, Greece, and so began the village of Ayia Napa.

In Cape Greco lives the reputed Ayia Napa Sea Monster which is meant to resemble a cross between a porpoise and dragon. It has only been spotted and photographed a dozen or so times and is thought to be a direct descendent from pre-historic times.