Pissouri, Cyprus offers stunning beaches and history

Pissouri is a seaside village in Cyprus standing on a hilltop 250 meters above sea level. Original architecture and family-run restaurants make it welcoming and popular for both locals and visitors. Located just 30 minutes-drive from the busier holiday resorts of Paphos and Limassol, visitors to Pissouri enjoy pure relaxation and over 300 days of sunshine. About half of the village’s 1100 residents are Cypriots, and the rest are foreigners, mainly British nationals.

Historical reports say that Pissouri’s name is derived from the pitch-dark nights in this tiny village. One report states that German saints came to the island from Palestine in order to practice and arrived on a pitch-dark night. Others think that the name stems from the skin-sap production from pine trees (“pissa”) that began in the region during the Byzantine era.

Vineyards and forested land abound in Pissouri. Throughout history, the main industry for locals has been the vineyards and farming. Although the area is famous for growing grapes, citrus, almond, carob, and olive trees also grow in the valley. Many locals are now involved in the tourism industry, but the village still retains its original character.

Pissouri is divided into 2 areas – Pissouri beach and Pissouri village. The beach resort area has a few restaurants, tavernas, one hotel, two banks, and a few shops. People enjoy the golden sand and pebbled beaches, and exquisite views in the winter as well as in the summer. Visitors in the summer can partake in a variety of water sports and excellent golfing.

From Pissouri village, you can enjoy beautiful views of the sea at Cape Aspro, the countryside to the East, and the Troodos mountain range, including Mount Olympus, to the north. The village also has a number of shops, tavernas, and restaurants. An 800-seat amphitheater was built in 2000, and provides entertainment year-round. During the summer the amphitheater hosts “Cyprus night” with dancing and music.

The Church of the Apostle Andrea is the town’s main church. Built entirely with the volunteer labor of the villagers themselves, construction of this Gothic-style church took 12 years and was completed in 1883. All the stone comes from local villages, and the church is famous for its carved wooden Icon Stand.