Ayia Napa, a renowned Mediterranean resort, graces the southeastern coast of Cyprus, nestled in a picturesque bay at the foot of Cape Cavo Greco. This charming town is part of the Famagusta district, specifically its southern region, which remained under Greek control after the events of 1974 when the northern part fell under Turkish occupation.
With a population of approximately 3,000 residents, Ayia Napa thrives using the euro (EUR) as its official currency.
The origins of Ayia Napa remain shrouded in history. Archaeological findings trace human habitation in this area back to as early as 8,500-10,500 BC.
Legend has it that Ayia Napa's founding is linked to an ancient forest, the very place where an icon of the Virgin Mary was unearthed in a cave. This sacred woodland, where the icon was discovered, was named the "Holy Forest," hence the name Ayia Napa, derived from the Greek words for "holy forest."
Over time, this forest was eventually cleared, making way for the construction of a monastery by the Venetians. It wasn't until the mid-18th century that the region surrounding it started to witness settlement by Thessaloniki natives, who were compelled to leave their homeland due to a plague outbreak. However, it wasn't until 1974 that significant changes reshaped the town's destiny.
The Turkish occupation of northern Cyprus, including the city of Famagusta, led Greek inhabitants to migrate southward. They embarked on the journey of transforming Ayia Napa into a vibrant tourist destination, eventually earning it the reputation as the "second Ibiza" over the decades.
