The square
Cafes under the trees.
Mandic Milan — CC BY 3.0 · Dmitry Panov — CC BY 3.0 · Dmitry Panov — CC BY 3.0 · Dmitry Panov — CC BY 3.0 · Dmitry Panov — CC BY 3.0
Omodos is a mountain village in the Troodos range in Limassol District, about 80 km from Nicosia. It is one of the best known villages in the area, with stone-paved lanes, a broad square shaded by trees and stone houses with timber balconies. At its heart stands the Monastery of the Holy Cross, regarded as one of the oldest and most historic on the island. Tradition says that locals found a cross in a cave and built a small chapel above it, which grew into the monastery, and it keeps a fragment of the Cross linked by tradition to St Helena. The village lies in the Krasochoria, the wine-growing villages of the mountains. A visit usually starts at the square, with cafes, outdoor tables and the monastery entrance, and lanes branch off selling lace, silver, pottery and local products. Here and there huge clay jars recall the old wine making, and one courtyard holds an old press. Walking is a pleasure, as the village is small and easy to explore. Omodos is 10 km in a straight line from Troodos village and 22 km from Kourion. A car is the best way there, and mornings are good, before the tour buses arrive. Watch for smooth stones in the lanes after rain, and dress modestly to enter the monastery. Some places serve alcohol, so ask about alternatives if you prefer.
Cafes under the trees.
At the heart of the village.
From the old wine making.
Limassol District, Troodos Mountains, Cyprus
Two hours is enough for the square, monastery and lanes.
Lace, silver, pottery and local products are the main finds.