How to find the largest aqueduct in Cyprus?

One of the most interesting historical landmarks in Cyprus is located in the vicinity of Larnaca. It is the island's largest aqueduct.

• Kamares Aqueduct
• History of the Aqueduct
• Interesting Facts
• How to Get There
• Frequently Asked Questions

Kamares Aqueduct

The aqueduct is a water supply system from the mountains to the drier areas and consists of more than 20 arches, although initially there were 75. Water was supplied to Larnaca from a source located about 10 kilometers away.

It is interesting because it was not built by the Romans, who often constructed such structures within the boundaries of the Roman Empire, but by the Ottomans during the time the island was under Ottoman rule. Many researchers consider it the most outstanding aqueduct built in Cyprus and generally one of the most interesting architectural structures on the island.

History of the Aqueduct

The landmark's second name is Bekir Pasha Aqueduct. This is because the engineering structure was financed by Bekir Pasha, or Abu Bakr Pasha, who was the Ottoman governor of Larnaca.

Construction of the aqueduct began in 1747 and was completed in 1750. The 75-arch structure served its primary purpose until 1939 when its functions were replaced by modern pipes. The aqueduct's current name comes from its characteristic arches ("kamares" in Greek) — after all, today it is located on the Greek side of the island.

Interesting Facts

In 1961, Turkey issued a 1 lira coin featuring the Kamares Aqueduct. At that time, the island was not yet divided into Greek and Turkish parts.

The surviving arches of the aqueduct are brightly lit at night and also have benches and a pedestrian walkway that connects to Larnaca Salt Lake — the same one where flamingos winter.

• See also: where to see flamingos in Cyprus?

How to Get There

The aqueduct is located on the outskirts of Larnaca towards Limassol, at the roundabout where the B5 highway intersects Faneromenis Street. The exact location is below the text. You can also reach the aqueduct via a path from the Salt Lake, another natural attraction of Larnaca.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of visiting the Kamares Aqueduct?

The aqueduct can be visited completely free of charge, as well as the viewing platform in front of it.

What are the opening hours of the aqueduct?

This attraction is open 24/7, and as we mentioned, it is spectacularly lit in the evening, so you can visit Kamares at any convenient time.

What is interesting near the aqueduct?

Besides Larnaca Salt Lake, famous for the flamingos wintering there, you can see the Church of Saint Lazarus by the coast, Pattihio Park on the lake's shore, and the famous Mackenzie Beach with a view of Larnaca Airport's runway.

• See also: best beaches in Larnaca

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