The skyline of Limassol (Lemesos) has left behind very little evidence of its historical past and given way instead to a modern, cosmopolitan appearance. However, the protected ancient monuments of the city hand over a rich trail of artefacts and mythical stories.

Limassol Castle, The Amathus Ruins and the Mosque of Djami Kebir are a few of the beautiful sights worth visiting (don't forget the camera!).There is no doubt Limassol Castle occupies a dominant position in the landmark and tourist attractions in the city. This imperial castle, now home to Limassol's Medieval Museum, used to serve as a prison during the old days of Ottoman rule. Richard the Lionheart is said to have married and crowned the Lord of Cyprus in this incredibly regal fortress.

The castle itself presents an extremely simple, archaeological view but the scenic gardens and an old olive press are a remarkable sight to explore.The Archaeological Museum in Limassol is a particularly interesting sight for art and history lovers. The museums houses artefacts related to societal development of Cyprus, which include ceramics, pottery and antiquities from the Roman period.

Also, on display are finds from the Neolithic until the Late Bronze Age. Sculptures, pottery, lamps and inscriptions with ancient Hellenistic and Roman koine catch the eye of many visitors.

The Municipal Museum of Folk Art is housed in a historic building donated by the Schiza family. Its main purpose is to promote Cypriot folk art and craft through collections from the 1800 and 1900 centuries.

On display are fascinating objects relating to woodcarving, jewellery decoration, tools and utensils, traditional Cypriot costumes, embroidery and weaving and bronze artefacts. One of the halls in the museum is especially dedicated to a porcelain collection by Anna Kourea.The ancient city of Amathus on the southern coast of Agios Tychonas is one of the oldest imperial cities on the island. There have been many myths behind the origin of this city, one of them believing in Cinyras as the city's founder, whose son Adonis named the city after his mother Amathous.

Hellenic myth would have Amathus built by one of the sons of Heracles who was worshipped there. The city had a very special place for Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty and love. Visitors at the ruins can perceive an era that existed 3000 years ago through the mythical excavations and artefacts.The Kolossi Medieval Castle is situated in the village of Kolossi, 11 kilometres west of Larnaca.

A renowned archaeological site, the castle was built in the 15th century by the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem on a land gifted by King Hugh I. Earlier, it used to be home to a 13th century fortress whose ruins are still visible in the castle. Later the castle was occupied by the Richard I of England and the Knights Templar.

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