Polis and Latsi
City of the Golden LandPolis is a small town 37 km west of Paphos. Its full name "Polis tis Chrysochous" means "City of the Golden Land" after the fertile land that once surrounded the area. On site was once the ancient kingdom of Marion. The whole area is full of Hellenistic tombs in which imported Attic pottery was found, with some older specimens from the 6th to 4th century B.C.Here, at this western tip of Cyprus one will find peace and tranquillity as nowhere else on the island. Despite the increase in tourism during the last few years, Polis maintains its relaxed pace and calm atmosphere. Its traditional character is obvious from the small houses with wooden balconies and staircases, typical of early 20th century architecture. Nearby is the Akamas Peninsula, with beautiful scenery and majestic beaches. Here are the Baths of Aphrodite, a pool of a natural grotto shaded by a fig tree where according to the legend the goddess used to bathe. The nature trails that start from here pass through amazing landscapes of pure nature.
The beaches in Polis and Latsi offer the visitor a choice of scenery. Just know that whatever it is you choose to do, this part of the island will always remain deep in your heart...
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In the same area lies Latsi, a small fishing port and formerly
a sponge-diving centre. This is the ideal place to get a rest at
a local taverna just before you move further into the rocky
Akamas. Seafood never tasted so well, so be sure to ask for
the catch of the day! The area is perfect for scuba-diving
with many diving schools in the area that offer diving courses
and organised dives.