Lefkosia District

Πύλη Αμμοχώστου – Επαρχία Λευκωσίας

Παραλιακό μέτωπο – Επαρχία Λεμεσού

Λίμνη Αλυκής – Επαρχία Λάρνακας

Πέτρα του Ρωμιού – Επαρχία Πάφου

Παραλία Πόλης Αμμοχώστου - Επαρχία Αμμοχώστου

Κάστρο της Κερύνειας – Επαρχία Κερύνειας

Kythrea

Contact Details

Municipality under turkish occupation since 1974
Ammochostou 37
1016 Nicosia
Cyprus
Mayor: Marios Zampakides
Tel.: +357 22438956
Fax: +357 22438955
Email: dimoskythreas@cytanet.com.cy
Website: www.kythrea.com

A few words

Kythrea is located about 12 km northeast of Nicosia, at the southern outskirts of the Pentadaktylos mountain range, and at the northern border of the Mesaoria plain. The Municipality of Kythrea was founded in 1915, with Nicolaos Kattamis as its first mayor. Its extensive municipal boundaries include six parishes: that of Chrysida, Agia Marina, Agios Andronikos, Agios Georgios, Chardakiotissa and Syrkania. In 1974, the Greek Cypriot population of Kythrea was estimated at about 4,500. The town even had three elementary schools, as well as one high school. The town hall was located at the borders of the Agios Andronikos and Agios Georgios parishes. At present, the temporary offices of the Municipality of Kythrea are to be found within the Nicosia walls, near the Famagusta Gate. The town was well known for the magnificent Kefalovrysos, the largest spring water source in Cyprus, which flowed out of the northern parish of Syrkania. Since the period of the Venetian occupation, the Kefalovrysos water, which originated from the Pentadaktylos aquifer, powered 32 watermills, as well as irrigated the fields of Kythrea and the crops of the surrounding area. During antiquity, and up to the Middle Ages, it also supplied Salamis, which was once the capital of Cyprus, with water. Since 1974, the churches of Kythrea have been systematically vandalised and destroyed. The two churches of the upper parishes, Syrkania and Chardakiotissa, were respectively dedicated to Agia Anna and the Virgin Mary (Panagia). The church of the Virgin Mary, which was the largest in the town, has now been turned into a mosque. In the southern parish of Chrysida, the church of the Holy Cross has become a handicraft workshop, while the chapel of Apostle Loukas is dilapidated. Agia Marina, located in the homonymous parish, is used for dance classes, while the monastery of the Virgin Mary (Theotokou) in the homonymous district (part of the Agia Marina parish) is in a military zone. The church of Agios Georgios in the homonymous district is also in a military zone, and it has been turned into a munitions depot. Finally, the church of Agios Andronikos and Agia Athanasia in the parish of Agios Andronikos has suffered inestimable destruction, as the roof has collapsed and the interior is at the mercy of the varying weather conditions. Projects that aim to salvage the damage are now being planned by the bi-communal Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage, as a result of the Kythrea Municipality’s intense efforts. Kythrea also has several other chapels. Kythrea was inhabited since the Neolithic period, around 4,000 BC. Chytroi is referred to in the 7^th century BC as one of the ten ancient kingdoms of Cyprus, while it seems that the city experienced great prosperity during the Hellenistic and Roman period, with inscriptions testifying to the existence of a high school. The 2.08 metre statue of the Roman emperor Septimius Severus, which is currently in the Cyprus Museum, was discovered in the Agios Demetrianos area in 1928 and is the largest bronze statue that has been found on the island. It is also important that the aqueduct, which carried water from Chytroi to Salamis, is dated from the Roman period. During the Byzantine period, Kythrea became the bishopric of Chytroi. The greatest religious figure of the time was Agios Demetrianos, the Bishop of Chytroi, who managed to repatriate his congregants after being held captive in Baghdad by the Arabs in the 10^th century. It is for this reason that he is considered the Holy Guardian of Refugees. Following the Arab raids, the city was built west of its original position, along the flow of the Kefalovrysos water in the valley. In earlier times, Kythrea was renowned for its production of silk, its weaving and woodcarving, as well as its flour milling industry. It was also known for its cultivation of citrus fruits and its limestone production, as it was surrounded by quarries and limestone manufacturing areas. The town was justly reputed to be a “daskalomana” (mother of teaching), as many intellectuals and educators were born there, as well as doctors, lawyers and other scientists.

At a glance

Lakatameia

Contact Details

P.O.Box: 12012
2340 Lakatameia
Cyprus
Mayor: Dr Photoula Hadjipapa
Tel.: +357 22364000
Fax: +357 22380688
Email: municipality@lakatameia.org.cy
Website: https://lakatameia.org.cy/

A few words

Lakatamia is situated in the Southwest perimeter of Greater Nicosia, and its main characteristic is Pedieos River which runs 5 kilometers through the land of Lakatamia. Lakatamia has an attitute of 280 meters, and the land that was once used by farmers is now full of houses.
Lakatamia evolved in its present condition after the tragic events of 1974, when Turkey invaded Cyprus and occupied 35% of the island’s territory. Lakatamia, being on the outer perimeter of Greater Nicosia and at a relatively safe distance from the confrontation line, received a big wave of refugees from all the Turkish occupied areas. The refugees were housed in state refugee settlements or obtained accommodation under private self-housing schemes. This, in combination with the general trend of people from the villages close to the capital to move to areas in the suburbs of Nicosia, resulted into the population explosion that made Lakatamia to grow rapidly, turning it from a village of 5,000 citizens to a city of 45,000 citizens.
There are no convincing historical evidence with regard to the origin of the name “Lakatamia”. There are only a few speculations as from where Lakatamia’s name derives from.
The most probable origin of the name, is connected with the many “alakatia” (water wheels) that existed in Lakatamia and were used to draw the abundant underground water from the springs. It is believed that there were more than 80 wells (“alakatia”) in Lakatamia, and that’s why the area is called Lakatamia (“alakatia”-“Alakatamia”-“Lakatamia” The “alakati” is today the emblem of Lakatamia’s Municipality.
Another speculation, as from where Lakatamia took its name, is that the name was originally “Lakedemon” as the name of ancient Sparta and it was paraphrased through the years and ended up as Lakatamia.
Lakatamia is today one of the seven Municipalities of Greater Nicosia with a population of about 45,000. It extends to an area of 29 sq. km and has boundaries with Strovolos, Latsia, Engomi and Tseri Municipalities, and also with Deftera, Ayious Trimithias and Paliometoxo.
Lakatamia was declared a municipality on February 23rd of 1986 after a referendum in which the 86% of the population gave a positive vote. The first Municipal elections took place on May 22nd 1986. Today the Municipality is administered by the Mayor and 22 Municipal Counselors, who get elected for a period of 5 years.
After being declared a municipality Lakatamia was, for administrative purposes, divided into the following four parishes:

Ayias Paraskevis,
Ayiou Nicholaou,
Ayiou Mamantos
Archagelou-Anthoupolis.

According to the Municipalities Law the Municipality has jurisdiction for the following:

Implementation of the Town and Country Planning Law within its boundaries
Construction, maintenance, cleaning, lighting, and free use of roads and bridges
Naming of streets
Construction and maintenance of rain water and sewer drainage systems
Cleanliness and health condition within its boundaries and solid waste collection management
Good appearance of the town and protection and improvement of the natural environment
Safeguarding of Public health and food hygiene.

Contrary to other Municipalities, Lakatamia Municipality has its own water supply (Lakatamia Water Board). It has jurisdiction over the water supply and sees to the construction, maintenance and functioning of water supply systems within its boundaries.
Lakatamia Municipality is committed to contribute, with respect, efficiency, consistency and professionalism, its services to the citizens, to organize cultural and other events, to plan and complete projects that aim at upgrading the environment, and ensuring the best possible quality of life for its citizens. All of the above have always been a priority for all the Municipal Councils that governed Lakatamia.
Culture is the most powerful link which binds people together in a community. The creation of culture has always been a high priority of the municipal authorities. In spite of their insufficient resources, they have invested a large amount of money in works which will bring people together and through such contact promote community feeling.

Municipal Amphitheatre:
Lakatamia’s Municipal amphitheatre was the first big project that was completed after Lakatamia was declared a Municipality.
The inauguration of the amphitheatre, took place in 1994 and it has a capacity of 1,600 spectators. Since then, the amphitheatre is being used as a cultural center, especially during the summer months.
The theater is offered for:

Theatrical Performances
Musical Performances
Dancing Performances
Concerts
Film Projections
General Assemblies
School Performances

Municipal Gallery:
In 1996, under the Municipal Amphitheatre, a wonderful Municipal Gallery was built. Equipped with all the facilities necessary for the needs of various events, the gallery is offered for:

Painting, Sculpturing and Photography exhibitions
LecturesOther functions

Pediaios Linear Park
One of the greatest achievements of the Municipality is the Pediaios Linear Park. The creation of the pedestrian and bicycle path and the lush planting along the bed of the Pediaios river, make it unique and give the residents the opportunity to escape from their day to day activities and to walk or cycle in a beautifully landscaped environment.
In addition to the pedestrian and bicycle paths, parallel to the main pedestrian path, another path was created in order to accommodate people with pets. Two pedestrian bridges were also constructed on the Pediaios river in order to link the eastern and western areas of the town.

Athletics Center
The development of a modern athletics center, that would offer the citizens of Lakatamia the opportunity to exercise, was the Municipality’s second priority. The Municipal Athletic Center, includes a stadium and a swimming pool.
The Municipal Stadium, which was established in 2000 includes, among other facilities, a football field, tracks, and installations for classical sports and other athletic events.
The Municipal Swimming Pool was established in 2001. It hosts thousands of swimmers who can enjoy the water in a clean, cool and pleasant environment. The Municipal Swimming pool has 3 pools, one of which is made with Olympic standards.

Health Center:
The construction and operation of the Health Center is a result of long period efforts from the Municipal council. Lakatamia’s Health Centre provides first degree medical care.

Multidynamic Centre
The Multidynamic Centre is located next to the Health Centre. It offers infrastructures for the daily care and productive occupation of the elderly. Since the first year of its operation the Centre attracted the interest of many people, who choose from a variety of programmes which include different activities, like dance, art, gardening and physical activities. Elderly citizens find, at the Multidynamic centre, a place where they can socialize and remain useful and productive.

Lakatamia Open School
Lakatamia Open School operates in the Municipality of Lakatamia since 2009 and it’s applied in co-operation with the Ministry of Education, the Municipality and the Local School Boards. The Open School (which operates under the Lakatamia Multidynamic Center) serves the purpose of lifelong learning and creates the conditions for the highest possible use of school facilities for educational, recreational, cultural and other activities for both children and adults.
Lakatamia Open School is one of the biggest in Cyprus and its training programs are held in the morning, in the afternoon and at night in order to accommodate the educational needs of the residents.

At a glance

Latsia – Geri

Contact Details

57 Yiannou Kranidiotis Ave, 2235
P.O.Box: 12540
2250 Latsia
Cyprus
Mayor: Christos Pittaras
Tel.: +357 22878688
Fax: +357 22487213
Email: municipalityl@latsia-geri.org.cy
Website: https://latsia-geri.eu/

A few words

ΙΣΤΟΡΙΚΗ ΑΝΑΔΡΟΜΗ
Τα παλαιότερα ίχνη πολιτισμού στα Λατσιά εντοπίζονται σε μια μικρή κατασκευή και μια δεξαμενή, οι οποίες χρονολογούνται στην Ελληνιστική περίοδο (325-50 π.Χ.). Ωστόσο, δεν υπάρχουν άλλα στοιχεία που να υποστηρίξουν ότι τα Λατσιά ήταν οικισμός κατά την εποχή εκείνη. Πρέπει, επομένως, να αναζητήσουμε τις καταβολές τους πίσω στο Μεσαίωνα. Τα Λατσιά ήταν πιθανότατα μεγάλο φέουδο κατά τη Φραγκοκρατία (1192-1489) και την Ενετοκρατία (1489-1570)· αυτό διασώζει η προφορική παράδοση, η οποία ενισχύεται από χάρτες των σχετικών περιόδων. Το 1571, όταν οι Οθωμανοί κατέλαβαν την Κύπρο, τα Λατσιά έγιναν τσιφλίκι (κτήμα, μεγάλο τεμάχιο γης που καλλιεργούνταν από τους ντόπιους και ανήκε σε ένα πλούσιο Τούρκο, τον επονομαζόμενο αγά) και, εικάζεται ότι (σύμφωνα με την προφορική παράδοση), ο πυκνός πληθυσμός αφανίστηκε από τους κατακτητές.
Το 1790, ο Κιόρογλου, ο αγάς αρκετών περιοχών (Αγλαντζιά, Γέρι, Δάλι, Δευτερά, Λατσιά, Παλλουριώτισσα, Στρόβολος, Χρυσοσπηλιώτισσα και Ψημολόφου) – και, σύμφωνα με τον εθνικό μας ποιητή, Βασίλη Μιχαηλίδη, προσωπικός φίλος του Αρχιεπισκόπου Κυπριανού – αποφάσισε να πουλήσει ένα από τα τσιφλίκια του στους ανθρώπους που το καλλιεργούσαν, επειδή ήταν περισσότερο από ευχαριστημένος από τη δουλειά τους, και επίσης από τα «δώρα» τους, που περιελάμβαναν πισσώδη καυσόξυλα από πεύκο. Πρέπει, εν τούτοις, να λάβουμε υπόψη και τις συνεχείς ξηρασίες και σκωριάσεις, τη μειωμένη παραγωγή των καλλιεργειών και την ανεντιμότητα μερικών δούλων, παράγοντες οι οποίοι συνέβαλαν στην απόφασή του να πωλήσει το τεμάχιο. Φαίνεται πως ο Κιόρογλου αποφάσισε να συνδυάσει την καλοσύνη με την πώληση. Οι γεωργοί ήσαν χωρικοί από το Λυθροδόντα, ένα μεγάλο χωριό γύρω στα 21 Χμ (13 μίλια) νοτιοδυτικά της Λευκωσίας. Έπρεπε να επιλέξουν ανάμεσα στα Λατσιά και το Κουπάτι, μια περιοχή στο κεντροανατολικό μέρος της Λευκωσίας. Επέλεξαν τα Λατσιά, καθώς ήταν πιο κοντά στο Λυθροδόντα αλλά, επίσης, επειδή ήταν αρκετά μεγαλύτερα και πιο εύφορα, επιτρέποντάς τους να καλλιεργούν κάθε είδους γεωργικά προϊόντα.
Έτσι, δεκαέξι (16) Ελληνοκύπριοι και ένας Τουρκοκύπριος καδής (αρχιδικαστής), που ονομαζόταν Κιουφής, αγόρασαν τα Λατσιά, μια περιοχή 11.600 σκάλων (1 σκάλα = 1.337,8 τετρ. μέτρα ή 14.400 τετρ. πόδια) για την τιμή των 14 πουγκιών (ένα πουγκί άξιζε 500 ριάλια, τα λεφτά της εποχής). Ο Κιουφής προσέφερε το ένα πέμπτο της τιμής και το χωριό διαχωρίστηκε σε είκοσι (20) τεμάχια, τέσσερα (4) για τον Κιουφή και ένα (1) για κάθε Ελληνοκύπριο. Ο Κιουφής, κατέχοντας σημαντική περιουσία στο Λυθροδόντα, τους βοήθησε για να διασφαλίσουν την ασφάλειά τους στα Λατσιά και επίσης τους βοήθησε όταν οι απόγονοι του Κιόρογλου έγειραν αξίωση για το τσιφλίκι. Αυτοί οι δεκαεφτά άνθρωποι αναζωογόνησαν τον οικισμό, ένα χωριουδάκι για την ακρίβεια, ερχόμενοι το φθινόπωρο (Οκτώβριο και Νοέμβριο) για να σπείρουν σιτάρι και να φυτέψουν ελαιόδεντρα και το καλοκαίρι (Μάιο μέχρι Αύγουστο) για να μαζέψουν τη σοδειά, να θερίσουν και να αλωνίσουν, και να μαζέψουν τις ελιές. Παρόλα αυτά, επέλεξαν να μην κατοικούν στα Λατσιά, όχι μόνο επειδή θεωρούσαν το Λυθροδόντα καλύτερο και πιο ασφαλές μέρος (το επονομαζόμενο «μικρό Παρίσι»), αλλά επίσης επειδή δεν υπήρχε εκπαιδευτική και δομική υποδομή στο χωριό. Μόνο μια χούφτα ανθρώπων παρέμεναν στα Λατσιά, με σκοπό να καλλιεργούν το σιτάρι και να σιγουρεύονται πως όλα ήταν εν τάξει. Ο Κιουφής χάρισε μέρος της γης του στον αδερφό του, ο οποίος – με τη σειρά του – το πώλησε σε έξι (6) Ελληνοκύπριους για την τιμή ενός πουγκιού ανά 100 σκάλες. Οι έξι αυτοί άνδρες διέμεναν μόνιμα στα Λατσιά, με σκοπό να διεκπεραιώνουν τις γεωργικές εργασίες και τις εργασίες επιδιόρθωσης. Στις 30 Απριλίου 1909 (δύο χρόνια μετά το θάνατο του Κιουφή), οι τέσσερις κληρονόμοι πώλησαν τα κτηματικά δικαιώματά τους σε οχτώ (8) Ελληνοκύπριους για την τιμή των £350. Είναι συχνό να βρίσκουμε μικροτοπωνύμια σχετιζόμενα με τους πρώτους αγοραστές.
Στα μέσα του 19ου αιώνα, μερικοί από τους ιδιοκτήτες άρχισαν να εγκαθίστανται στα Λατσιά, όχι μόνο επειδή η γη ήταν πιο εύφορη, αλλά λόγω και της εγγύτητας των Λατσιών προς τη Λευκωσία – το κέντρο της οικονομικής και εμπορικής ζωής του νησιού – ούτως ώστε να μπορούν να πωλούν τα προϊόντα τους πιο εύκολα. Ωστόσο, δεν ήταν μέχρι το 1930 που ιδρύθηκε Δημοτικό σχολείο. Πρωτύτερα, τα παιδιά έπρεπε να παρακολουθούν σχολείο είτε στο Λυθροδόντα είτε στο Γέρι, ένα γειτονικό χωριό. Αρκετά σπίτια από τα τέλη του 19ου και αρχές του 20ου αιώνα μπορούν να βρεθούν στην παλιά περιοχή των Λατσιών. Επειδή το κύριο εισόδημα των Λυθροδοντιατών προερχόταν από την ελαιοπαραγωγή, άρχισαν να φυτεύουν όλο και περισσότερα ελαιόδεντρα στα Λατσιά.
Μετά το Β’ Παγκόσμιο Πόλεμο, όλο και περισσότεροι Λυθροδοντιάτες άρχισαν να μετοικούν στα Λατσιά, μαζί με τις μεγάλες οικογένειές τους, έτσι ο πληθυσμός συνέχισε να αυξάνεται. Η Τουρκική εισβολή και η συνεχιζόμενη κατοχή ανάγκασαν 185.000 – 200.000 Κύπριους να καταστούν πρόσφυγες στην ίδια τους τη χώρα, καθιστώντας αναγκαίο το κτίσιμο πολυάριθμων προσφυγικών από την κυβέρνηση σε όλο το νησί. Τρεις απ’ αυτούς κτίστηκαν στα Λατσιά (συν μια προσφυγική αυτοστέγαση), αυξάνοντας τον πληθυσμό δραματικά. Αυτό, σε συνδυασμό με τη γενική τάση του κόσμου από το κέντρο της Λευκωσίας και χωρία κοντά στην πρωτεύουσα να μετακινούνται στις περιοχές των προαστείων της Λευκωσίας, είχε ως αποτέλεσμα την πληθυσμιακή έκρηξη που έκανε τα Λατσιά μια κωμόπολη που συνεχίζει να αυξάνεται ραγδαία.

At a glance

Lefkosia

Contact Details

P.O.Box: 21015
1500 Lefkosia
Cyprus
Mayor: Charalambos Prountzos
Tel.: +357 22797000
Fax: +357 22663363
Email: municipality@nicosia.org.cy
Website: www.nicosia.org.cy

A few words

Η Λευκωσία, η πρωτεύουσα της Κύπρου, μια από τις πιο αρχαίες πόλεις στην περιοχή αυτή του κόσμου είναι σήμερα μια κοσμοπολίτικη πρωτεύουσα στην ανατολική Μεσόγειο, πλούσια σε ιστορία και πολιτισμό που συνδυάζεται της με τους γρήγορους ρυθμούς μιας σύγχρονης πόλης.
Η καρδιά της πόλης βρίσκεται εντός των τειχών που έκτισαν το 16ο αιώνα οι Βενετοί και περιλαμβάνει ενδιαφέροντα μουσεία και εκθεσιακούς χώρους, βυζαντινές εκκλησιές, μεσαιωνικά και νεοκλασικά κτίρια, στενά δρομάκια και διατηρεί τη ρομαντική ατμόσφαιρα του παρελθόντος. Έξω από τα τείχη η νέα πόλη με τις σύγχρονες ανέσεις, ζει στους κοσμοπολίτικους ρυθμούς μιας σύγχρονης ευρωπαϊκής πρωτεύουσας.

At a glance

Morfou

Contact Details

Municipality under turkish occupation since 1974
16 Zynonos Sozou
1075 Lefkosia
Cyprus
Mayor: Victor Hadjavraam
Tel.: +357 22447333, +357 22447334
Fax: +357 22762015
Email: info@morphou.org.cy
Website: http://www.morphou.org.cy

A few words

The Morphou Municipality was established in 1883 and is one of the oldest municipalities in Cyprus. The lovely small town of Morphou is built in the western central valley of Cyprus near Serrahis River and an area of approximately 5.636 acres comes under its administrative jurisdiction. The population of Morphou is currently estimated from 10 to 12 thousands.
Morphou was inhabited since the ancient times, which is evidenced from the numerous settlements that have been discovered and excavated in the town’s surrounding area giving, therefore a testimony of its rich history and great culture. According to the most valid theory about the origin of Morphou’s place name, this is related to the goddess Aphrodite, as one of the goddess’ names has been Morpho, which was how the goddess was worshiped in the ancient Greek world, mainly in Laconia in Peloponnese. This theory connects, consequently, Morphou to the Laconians, who settled possibly in the western part of the big central valley of our island.
The small town of Morphou experienced a big growth mainly due to its prospering economy because of its arable land and the endless citrus plantations in the area. These sources made Morphou the leading town in culture, letters, arts and sports.
However, on 16^th August 1974 upon completion of the second round of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, Morphou was, unfortunately, conquered by the Turkish occupying forces. The legitimate inhabitants of the area were forced to leave their home and to move to the southern areas of Cyprus. Since then, the Morphou Municipality has been devoted to the struggle for a fair and viable solution to the Cyprus Problem in order to enable all the displaced people to go back to their fatherland.
From 1974 onwards, our Municipality has considered the struggle for return and justice its priority. Morphou Municipality becomes also active in culture-related events but also in our country’s religious traditions aiming at keeping alive our occupied land’s memory.
As part of such activities, our Municipality has so far twinned with nine Municipalities: five Municipalities in Greece (Sparta, Kalavryta, Ermoupoli, Orestiada and Missolonghi) one Municipality in France (Saint Cyr Sur Loire) one Municipality in the United Kingdom (Barnet) and one Municipality in Malta (Zurrieq). Last but not least in 2008 the Morphou Municipality twinned with the Muncipality of Slovenj Gradec in Slovenia.
Despite the problems experienced by our Municipality, we are pleased to say that all our nine twinned cities are absolutely active. We are constantly and regularly in contact with these nine Municipalities and despite the fact we are twinned with some of these towns for more than 20 years, the friendship ties have become stronger instead of being damaged in so far that we feel them like our real brothers.
Our Municipality participates in almost all the big events organized by our twinned towns and we have launched many events (cultural, photography, youth exchanges, dancing groups, choirs and so on and so forth) in all the above stated towns without exception. On the other hand, all the nine twinned towns honour with their presence our annual event against the Turkish occupation, joining forces to ours in the struggle for freedom and justice, while they have been invited and participated in many other cultural events organized by our Municipality in Cyprus.
Further to the twinning with the above nine towns, the Morphou Municipality has concluded exceptional relationship with many other towns too, while participating in international and other organizations. Our Municipality enjoys membership in the Network of Cities Aphrodite and in the United Nations Peace Messenger Cities chaired by our Municipality.

At a glance

South Lefkosia – Idalio

Contact Details

P.O.Box: 11025
2540 Dali
Cyprus
Mayor: Stavros Hadjiyiannis
Tel.: +357 22 444888
Fax: +357 22 444889
Email: sni@sni.org.cy
Website: http://www.dali.org.cy/

A few words

Dali in our days
Dali is located in the Nicosia District. It is located approximately in the center of the island, 17 km from Nicosia, 23 km from Larnaca and 50 km from Limassol. Its area covers 31 sq. Km and consists of two residential areas, the Panagia Evangelistria Parish and the Parish of Saints Constantine and Helen, the Industrial Zone, the Livestock Zone and the Agricultural Zones. The number of residents currently stands at around 12,000.
In 1996, after a referendum, Dali became the 24th Municipality of Cyprus, the Municipality of Dali.
At first the modern Dali was built on the southern side of the river Idalia (Yiallias), today’s Panagia Evangelistria parish. Since 1983 a new settlement has been created on the north-eastern border of Idalion, which borders with Latsia and Geri, the Parish of Saints Constantine and Helen.
The Industrial Zone was established in 1981 and is located along the Nicosia Limassol highway, bordering with Pera Chorio-Nisou, Latsia and Geri. Due to its geographical location the Industrial Area has developed very fast, being today one of the largest industrial areas in Cyprus.
The inhabitants of Dali have always been concerned with agro-livestock farming and various other crops due to fertile soil. Dali currently holds the first place nationwide in milk production. This production exceeds 130,000 liters of milk per day. The main occupations of the inhabitants at present are agro-livestock farming, construction work, various small and medium-sized enterprises or they work in private and state services.
In Dali the following churches and temples are maintained and operated: the Metropolitan Church of Panagia Evagelistria, Saints Constantine and Helen church, Saints Andronikos and Athanasia church, Saint Theodoros church, Saint Artemios church and the Byzantine churches of Saint Georgios the Tropeoforos, Saint Mamas and Saint Dimitrianos of Agridioto. Since 2007, the Holy Metropolis of Trimithoundos has its seat in Dali. The mosque in the center of the community testifies the co-existence of Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots before the Turkish invasion of 1974. The Mosque was renovated in 2006 and today is operated to serve foreign citizens residing in Dali and surrounding communities.
As the capital of the surrounding area, Dali operates a Regional Health Center, which serves communities in the wider region of more than 30,000 inhabitants.
Education has a long tradition in Dali. The first elementary school was founded by Papa-Chrysanthos Oikonomos, who was born in 1809 or 1810 in Dali and served for many years as a priest in Dali and Larnaca. In 1841, the church of Saints Andronikos and Athanasia was erected by his personal donations of property and money, and in 1858, with the donation of a privately owned building next to the church of Saints Andronikos and Athanasia, he founded the first elementary school.
Education is one of the first development goals for the city of Idalion (Dali). The Municipal Authority supports the city’s educational institutions in a variety of ways.
Nowadays in Dali there are seven kindergarten schools, three primary schools and a Lyceum school.
Since 1966, the Municipal Library has also been supporting the education sector. Today, the Municipal Library has over 12,000 books and numbers 2,000 members.
The cultural and intellectual development of the Municipality has always been on very high levels. Many citizens of Dali have stand out in the fields of education, literature, poetry, music, sports, theater and the fine arts.
The cultural activity of both the Municipality of Dali and its citizens through other organized organizations and associations, with a long, rich, multifaceted and qualitative tradition, demonstrates the high livelihood, spiritual and social level of the city.
Within the support of the cultural development of Idalion, the Municipality of Dali has erected an open-air amphitheater of 1060 seats, next to the eastern acropolis of Ancient Idalion.
The Municipality of Idalion is twinned with three European cities: Combs-la-Ville in France since 1978, Acharnes in Greece since 2008 and Orte in Italy since 2013. In 2014, the Municipality of Dali signed a protocol of cultural cooperation with the city of Wieliszew in Poland.
The main characteristic of the inhabitants of Idalion is their diligence, friendly mood, hospitality and the intense effort to preserve our historical, folklore and cultural tradition.
Visitors today have the opportunity to tour in three themes: the Historical Route, the Religious Route and the Cultural Route, as well as entertain in traditional or modern recreation areas.

History of Idalion
According to tradition, Idalion was one of the Kingdoms of Cyprus. It was founded by the hero of the Trojan War, Halkanora. According to tradition, Halkanoras, whose origin was from the town of Amykles near Sparta, as he was returning from Troy, where he took part in the siege, he arrived in Cyprus near Salamina. There, an oracle told him to travel with his army and where he would see the sun rising to build his own city.
So Halkanoras with his army left from Engomi / Alasia and arrived at the place where he founded the city of Dali (where he saw the sun rising).
The founding of the city according to the finds dates back to 1200 BC.
Before the 12th century BC (1650-1050 BC), on the south and southwest side of the river there were settlements of the last copper age. The ancient tombs that have been found testify that the city of Idalion has been inhabited continuously since the 12th century BC. century until the end of Roman times, around 400 AD. From inscriptions and coins it’s also concluded that the Greek element dominated the city of Dali.
The point where the city of Idalion was built was of great importance. It was built in such a way that it covered two hills to the south and the plain to the north towards the riverbed of the Yiallias river. The cover of the two hills was a natural fortress, and the river was vital to the inhabitants of Idalion. Of great importance, apart from the river and the fertile land, was the proximity of the town with copper-bearing areas (Mathiati and Sia villages). At some stage, copper was one of the main occupations of the inhabitants of Dali.
In both hills were the eastern and western acropolis. On the east acropolis there was the temple of Aphrodite and Apollo Amyclaus. In the west, which was the main acropolis, there was the temple of Athena, which was also the patron goddess of the city. The temple of Athena was destroyed around 470 BC. when the city was conquered by the Phoenician kings of Kition.
Underneath the two citadels to the north there was the city, surrounded by walls and it was estimated to cover an area of about 100 km2. The oldest part of the walls is estimated to have been built during the 7th-6th century BC.
In other parts of the city there were temples devoted to other deities, a total of 14 temples are mentioned.
During the reign of Stasikipros, the city of Dali was besieged by the inhabitants of Kition (Phoenicians) with the help of the Medes (Persians). An important documentary evidence of the siege of Dali from Kition around 470 BC. is the famous “Plate of Idalion”, a bronze plaque with an engraved inscription on Cypro-Syllabic script found on the western acropolis. It is the earliest written agreement that has been found and refers to the land property of the king, the city and the church, the succession, the taxation of income from the earth, and the protection of the title of property with guarantors being the king, the city and the patron goddess of the city.
From the contents of the plate it is also concluded that the city of Idalion retained a sort of democratic system where the king ruled together with the Council of the Archons until the conquest of the city by the Phoenicians of Kition around the middle of the 5th century BC.
After the conquest of the city by the Phoenicians, in 312 BC. the city was conquered by the Ptolemaic Kingdom based in Egypt by Ptolemy I Soter (the successor of Alexander the Great), who abolished all the Cypriot kingdoms. Thence forward Cyprus has been part of the Ptolemaic Kingdom and later a province of the Roman Empire. In the Roman period (58 BC -330 AD) Idalion, in written sources, is being referred as a town.
In Roman times small fields and large agricultural farms are being created, until the first Byzantine years, where people called “pariki” cultivate the land on behalf of the state or the church.
There are also “deputies” who are obliged to deliver the fruit of the land to their masters. During the later Byzantine years, 800-1191 AD small landowners disappear. At this stage there is only state land, ecclesiastical land, monastic land and noble land.
During the Byzantine and Frankish era, the biggest problem faced by the inhabitants of Cyprus was the raids by the Saracens (Arabs), who swept the Mediterranean and looted the cities of Cyprus. In particular, according to Leontios Machairas, the Saracens occupied Dali in 1426 AD.
From 1191-1489 AD the Crusaders and the Lusignans come to Cyprus, who adopt the feudal system, a regime based on the social order without interest in individual rights. At this time the land is gathered in the hands of the King of Franks, the nobles, the knights and the Latin church. Thus, in 1474 AD Dali, along with other villages, was given by the queen of Cyprus Catherine Cornaro to the nobleman Georgios Kontarini.
The Ottoman Empire follows, where we see an increase in ecclesiastic and Muslim property. The fear of Greeks and Turks from raids led them to make donations of their estates to the churches to protect them. The result of this situation was the creation of large rural areas in the area, since the Sultan gave fertile land to prominent military officers or administrators from Turkey.
From 1878 until 1960, the British Empire conquers the island until 1960, when Cyprus was proclaimed an independent democracy.
Idalion until 1974 was a mixed village ( Greek-Cypriots and Turkish-Cypriots living together), but after the Turkish invasion, the Turkish Cypriot residents left the village, except a few families, and went to the occupied areas of the island. From the battles of 1963 and the Turkish invasion of 1974, Idalion numbered 21 dead and missing.
During the Turkish invasion of 1974, 29 men held captive in Adana (Turkey) were released after the end of the war.

At a glance

Strovolos

Contact Details

P.O.Box: 28403
2094 Strovolos
Cyprus
Mayor: Stavros Stavrinides
Tel.: +357 22470470
Fax: +357 22470400
Email: municipality@strovolos.org.cy
Website: www.strovolos.org.cy

A few words

HISTORY

The Municipality of Strovolos was established in 1986 and is the second largest Municipality in Cyprus after Limassol, with a population of over 70.000 inhabitants.

There are references to Strovolos or Strovilos since the Μiddle Ages from the well-known medieval chronicler Leontios Macheras and from Forius Boustronius a little later. According to these sources, Strovolos was a royal field during the years of Frankish Rule. A major figure in the history of Strovolos was the National Martyr Archbishop Kyprianos, who during the Revolution of 1821, contributed greatly to the preservation of the Greek spirit and Christianity. The Turks hanged Archbishop Kyprianos and other high priest and dignitaries of Cyprus on 9^th July 1821.

Strovolos is now a big city that covers an area of 25km2 and is divided into six parishes: Chryseleousa, Ayios Demetrios, Apostle Varnavas and Ayios Makarios, Ayios Vasilios, National Martyr Kyprianos and Stavros.

Strovolos evolved in its present condition after the tragic events of 1974, when Turkey invaded Cyprus and occupied 38% of the island’s territory. Due to this event many refugees settled within the city of Strovolos.

Since 1974, a big industrial area was created in Strovolos and the areas of services and manufactures have developed to a great extend.

THE MUNICIPALITY´S OPERATION

The Municipal Council consists of 27 members: The Mayor, the Vice-mayor and 25 Municipal Counselors. The responsibilities, as well as the duties and powers of the Council, are described in Articles 83, 84 and 85 of the Municipal Law N. 111/85.

The Mayor chairs the Council Meetings, is the executive authority of the Municipality and heads the Services. In order to facilitate the work of the Municipal Council, several Municipal Committees have been set up:

The Municipal Service consists of 93 employees and 178 workers. The General Secretary (Town Clerk) is the General Director of the Municipality. The Service is divided into the following Services/Departments, each of which has its own head: Administration and Personnel Department, Finance Department, Technical Department which is divided into the sector of Licensing and Land Division and the Sector of Construction and Maintenance, Environmental Development Department, Public Health and Sanitation Department, Cultural Affairs Sector. A Citizen’s Service Bureau and a Health and Safety Bureau also operate in the Municipality.

The building of the Municipality is a modern building which corresponds to the needs of a modern organization.

CULTURE

The Municipality of Strovolos has given a great attention to Culture since its establishment. A Municipal Library has been established, as well as a Municipal Choir, a Folklore Dance Club, a Photography Club, a Symphonic Band of the Municipality of Strovolos – European University of Cyprus.

The annual cultural programme of the Municipality includes a variety of events from both domestic and Greek artists. The cultural events of the Municipality include concerts covering a wide repertoire, art exhibitions, lectures, dance and theatrical performances, festivals, anniversary events and events dedicated to children.

Artists who are interested in participating in the cultural programme of the Municipality, submit their proposals to the Municipality, following a published call of interest. All proposals are first evaluated by the Committee of Cultural Affairs and then by the City Council.

THE MUNICIPAL THEATRE OF STROVOLOS

The Municipal Theatre and the Music Hall of the Municipality of Strovolos has been designed so as to host a broad amount of artistic activities such as concerts, operas, ballets, and theatre

performances. Its size is for about 870 people including seats for people with special needs. This place has been designed with high standards. Particular attention has been paid to the study and implementation of the acoustic demands. Up to today the acoustic results have been proved to be very good according to the positive comments and the enthusiasm of the musical conductors, the soloists, and of the musicians who participated in several activities in the Hall.

The whole set of buildings has a big reception place which is connected with the reception place of the Municipal Building, modern and comfortable dressing rooms with hygienic places, a modern practice hall, a refreshment room for the artists, offices and storing places. It has all the equipment that is necessary for the successful organization and attendance of performances.

The construction of the Municipal Theatre indicates the beginning of a promising era for the cultural activities of Cyprus and it opens new horizons for the improvement of the culture and the citizens’ quality of life.

STROVOLOS CULTURAL CENTER

The Municipal Council of Strovolos has decided to renovate, improve and extent the old Municipal Building which is situated in the old city centre of Strovolos, so as to be used as the Municipal Library (new building) and as a Cultural Centre.

Τhe Cultural Center is one of the first Public Buildings in Cyprus which has been restored, designed, constructed and operated as a building of low energy consumption across Europe and has been included as an example of good practice in the European Green Public Procurement. The building is consisted of the restored/renovated building, where there are rooms available for rent, as well as the new building, in which the Municipal Library is housed.

For more information on the website: www.culturalcenterofstrovolos.org.cy

ATHLETICS

For the cultivation, promotion and growth of athleticism, the Municipality has created the Strovolos Municipal Sports Center in 1991 which is situated next to Ayios Demetrios park in 20 Koritsas Street, 2012 Strovolos, between Makarios Hospital and the English School. The telephone number for bookings or information is 22 318358.

The centre consists of (4) futsal pitches, (4) tennis courts, a track (ceramic dust), (8) outdoor fitness instruments, instruments of callisthenic gymnastics, washrooms-changing rooms, one administration office, etc.

ENVIRONMENT

Bright green parks have been created for the entertainment of the citizens, parks that beautify and transform the whole area.

In the area of Strovolos Municipality, 65 organized parks have been created as spaces for the entertainment of the citizens.

About 278 green spaces have been created, 500,000m² in total, while at the same time approximately 40,000 trees were planted in public areas, municipal parking lots and other areas. There are 32 organized green areas with amphitheatres, lakes, fountains and 64 playgrounds.

The best parks are those of Acropolis and Ayios Demetrios which are one of a kind.

ACROPOLIS EXHIBITIONS PARK AREA (CAVES)

After the decision of the Municipal Council the caves of the Acropolis park have been turned into an exhibition area. There is necessary infrastructure so that the caves can operate as a room for lectures, seminars, exhibitions, music performances, book presentations and other events.

SOCIAL WELFARE

The Municipality of Strovolos has established the Strovolos Municipality Multi-Functional Foundation in 1994, a non-profit foundation responsible for the development and implementation of Social Policy in the area of Strovolos.

The Foundation is subsidised mainly by the Municipality of Strovolos, the Social Welfare Services of the Ministry of Labour, Welfare and Social Insurance and relevant European programmes.

Under the framework of the Foundation, the following programmes and activities of Social Policy function, which cover a wide spectrum of social services for various social groups in the local society of Strovolos:

SERVICES/PROGRAMS FORPEOPLE IN THE THIRD AGE

Daily Center for Elderly People
Training programme for the provision of a “Certificate of Professional Care of older people”

SERVICES/PROGRAMMES/ACTIONS FOR SUPPORTING THE FAMILY

Childcare Centers for the Protection, Recreation and Education
Childens’ Camps
School Social Worker
Katina Mikellidou Foundation
Trainning Programmes
Implementation of research for families with children in Strovolos Municipality

SERVICES/PROGRAMS/ACTIONS FOR SUPPORT TO DISPOSING OF PEOPLE

Counseling Center
“Street Work” Social Programs
Support to Disposing of People and Families

SERVICES/PROGRAMS/ACTIONS FOR DEVELOPING FURTHER SOCIAL POLICY IN STROVOLOS

Municipal Prevention and Social Support Groups
Local Prevention and Social Support Groups – “Neighborhood Watcher”
Social Integration Programme for Third-Country Nationals

OPEN SCHOOL

The Open School Programme of the Municipality of Strovolos, is a programme funded by the Ministry of Education and Culture and has been operating in the municipality since 2008. The purpose of the Programme is to use schools as Centers for Culture, Sports and Creation during afternoons since otherwise they would have remained unused.

The main goals of the Programme are:

Stimulation of Municipality residents to take part in social activities which will Improve their quality of life
Growth of cultural and athletic abilities in our society
Possibilities for organisations, clubs and people to have cultural, artistic and athletic activities so that they can promote their work to the public
Strengthen the relationship between the residents of the Municipality

In this programme, children and adults have the ability to learn and participate in various events such as dancing, computers, musical instruments, cooking – confectionery, theatrical workshops, painting, various sports, etc. During the school year 2017-2018 the participations of children and adults in the programmes of the “Open School” have reached the number of 2160.

For more information click here http://bit.ly/2KIG9li

EUROPEAN PROGRAMMES

The Municipality is actively involved in the implementation of European Programmes through which it has the opportunity to cooperate with other European cities, aiming at exchanging know-how, adopting good practices in various fields and raise awareness of the wider European mentality.Some of the projects in which the Municipality participates are LIFE + – UrbanProof project (http://urbanproof.eu/el/) which aims at enhancing the resilience of municipalities to the impacts of climate change by equipping them with a powerful tool to support decision-making in the planning of climate change adaptation coordinated by the Department of the Environment, Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, the project “Colorful Society” co-funded by the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund – Local Authorities Integration Programmes, “Walk the (Global) Walk” (Europeaid) and the INNOVIMENTOR (Interreg Balkan-Med) project.

For more information on the website: www.strovolos.org.cy

ENERGY PROGRAMMES

Green Office

The Municipality of Strovolos was certified with the Green Office environmental award.

The certification of the Municipal Building with this Environmental Quality Award aims at having and implementing such criteria related to the reduction of energy and consumption of resources, promoting recycling, implementing of environmentally friendly practices and environmental education practices.

The Green Office certification was awarded to the City Hall and it presupposes the recognition and adoption of sustainable practices in its everyday operation in such a way so as to improve its overall environmental performance by saving financial, natural and other resources.

Strovolos Municipality is the first Local Authority in Cyprus that has been certified by the Green Office award. The programme is implemented by the NGO CYMEPA and is supported by the Commissioner of the Environment. In order for the Municipality to be able to keep this certification, it is required by everyone to be committed and implement the action plan which has been prepared by the Municipal Service.

+ The Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy

The Municipality of Strovolos, after the relevant decision of its Municipal Council, has signed the new Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy.

The new Covenant is a continuation of the previous Covenant of Mayors which has been signed by the Municipality in 2009.

The new Covenant is a voluntary commitment of Local Authorities. Signatory cities pledge action to support implementation of the EU 40% greenhouse gas-reduction target by 2030 and the adoption of a joint approach to tackling mitigation and adaptation to climate change.

In order to translate their political commitment into practical measures and projects, Covenant signatories commit to submitting, within two years following the date of the local council decision, a Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan (SECAP) outlining the key actions they plan to undertake. This bold political commitment marks the beginning of a long-term process with cities committed to reporting every two year on the implementation progress of their plans.

Geographic Information System (G.I.S.)

The Municipality of Strovolos, the Department of Land and Surveys (D.L.S.) of the Ministry of Interior and the Department of Information Technology Services (D.I.T.S.) of the Ministry of Finance have cooperated so as to implement a G.I.S. system for Strovolos Municipality which will be later be used as a pilot system by other Municipalities.

The project was co-funded through the European Union Structural by the European Regional Development Fund (85%) and by national resources (15%). The project’s total budget was €219.600, 00 which includes the necessary Hardware and Software.

The projects benefits are many since it allows a better cooperation among the Municipality’s departments/sectors because the information concerning all departments-sectors now exists on a central base.

In addition, the statistical analysis of the data will allow the Municipality to export productively its conclusions for everyday tasks and will help to make a policy for further development.

ISO Quality Policy

In Strovolos Municipality a total quality management system is being implemented according to the international standard ISO 9001:2015 having as a main target the continuous quality improvement of its services to the citizens.

Strovolos Municipality is committed to provide qualitative and efficient service to everybody without any discrimination.

At a glance