Unearth the Cypriot passion within

The Paphos village of Amargeti has a rich historical past and nature galore finds PAUL LAMBIS

From beautiful green valleys dotted with almond and olive trees to magnificent archaeological findings and ancient bridges, the charming, historic village of Amargeti makes perfect sense for exploring rural Paphos.

At first glance, Amargeti, which was the home of a feudal lord during the Frankish and Venetian occupation, appears to be the ideal location for an epic historical film. Its own history goes even further back to the Hellenistic and Roman eras, where evidence reveals that the residents of the settlement paid respect to Apollo, the ancient Greek sun god.

“Sculptures and inscriptions from the bases of statues were discovered in Amargeti and are a testament to the island’s rich historical heritage,” president of the community council Androulla Demetriou said “Ancient pots dedicated to Apollo were also found, similar to those from Mycenae in ancient Greece.

“Despite the fact that our community has not seen any organised archaeological excavations, several inscriptions have been recovered, including one in a place known as Petros Anthropos. This inscription was inscribed on the base of a marble statue from the first century BC.”

As one of the prettiest villages in the Paphos region, Amargeti never disappoints. It is known for its vineyards, fruit-bearing trees, and picturesque cobbled streets lined with stone buildings. It is perched atop a hill overlooking the Ezousa valley, which splits into two parts to the west and east of the village.

“It really is astonishing,” Demetriou said. “The village attracts a variety of visitors, including those who are interested in its history, culture, nature and cuisine as well as those who want to immerse themselves in the true village experience by engaging in agrotourism.”

Like most villages in Cyprus, Amargeti’s traditional square is the centre of activity and a location where residents and guests mingle and get a feel for village life.

In addition to the local coffee shop, post office, historical monuments dedicated to fallen heroes, winery, tavern and pub found in other villages of Cyprus, the central square provides a window into the past through its quaint art centre, photographic exhibition and traditional folklore museum.

“Apart from the furnishings of a typical Cypriot home, the folklore museum houses antiquities that were part of people’s everyday lives,” Demetriou told Living. “All exhibition pieces have been donated by community members for display at the museum, and the facility has grown to be a popular destination for both locals and visitors.”

The Byzantine church of Zoodochos Pigi (source of life), which was constructed in the 19th century on the ruins of an ancient church, is one of the village’s most noteworthy structures. The church is home to an old icon of the Virgin Mary that has withstood the test of time and is regarded as having significant cultural and theological significance.

The village also features an ancient cave, accessible through a rough pathway, which once housed frescoes of Saint George. A modern chapel, which pays homage to the saint, was built nearby. The department of antiquities has designated the Ayios Agathonikos ruins, which are close to the chapel, as an ancient monument, and restoration work is already underway.

The village of Amargeti is also a haven for nature lovers who want to explore the surrounding areas on foot. “The nature trail starts at the central square of the community and is approximately 5,200 metres in length,” Demetriou said. “There are many points of interest along the route where one can explore the region’s wildlife, including nine endemic plants, which flourish only in Cyprus.

“The observation point, which offers sweeping views of the village, the valley, and the many varieties of agriculture for which our village is well known, is one of the main attractions.”

According to Demetriou, the community council of Amargeti organises tours for both locals and tourists, showcasing the region’s hidden areas and exploring elements that cannot be seen at first glance. “Members of the Amargeti Expatriates’ Association guide visitors through the traces of the noblemen and knights who once lived in the area and narrate stories from the past,” she added.

“We also organise cultural events, from time to time, which include traditional dances and music, preparation of local specialities, distillation of Zivania, and traditional grape grinding, among other things.”

Each of Cyprus’ small villages has its own unique charm and fascinating history. From distinctive architecture and ancient sites to cultural trips and off-the-beaten-path experiences, the eye-catching village of Amargeti undoubtedly unearths the Cypriot passion within.