(NATURA AND MYTH)
The Akamas Peninsula on the north western part of Cyprus is a unique area, both geologically and physiographically and with regard to flora and fauna.
Almost all the geological formations of Cyprus can be found here , resulting in a real geological mosaic. For this reason, the Akamas Peninsula is endowed with a unique biodiversity habitats and ecosystems.
The uniqueness of the Akamas is due not only to the indisputable charm of the natural landscape, but also to it is cultural and mythological wealth. The area is strewn with romantic spots, most of which are connected with Aphrodite Goddess of love and beauty, known in antiquity-according to Homer –as Kypris, Pafia or Anadyomeni(born of the waves) as legend has it that she emerged out of the sea of Pafos. The Goddess of Love used to take her bath in a cool pond near Polis. The area is known as the “Baths of Aphrodite” and provides a magnificent view of the Bay of Polis. According to legend, after swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Bay, Aphrodite used to bathe in this pend, surrounded by the idyllic landscape with the sweet smelling wild flowers. It is here that she met her beloved Adonis for the first time. Adonis was hunting in the Akamas forest when he stoped over the wonderful spring to quench his thirst. He was struck by the sight of the naked goddess bathing in the crystal waters. Aphrodite and Adonis were instantly bewitched by each other’s extraordinary beauty. The myth lived on through the Middle Ages. Another legendary spot is “Pyrgos(castle)tis Rigainas” which is linked to the love of Rigaina and Digenis, (the Medieval queen of Cyprus and the Byzantine hero), as well as with Aphrodite. The “castle” which is actually a monastery, now in ruins, is in the centre of the Akamas in a majestic clearing, with a giant oak tree and a bubbling spring . according to the old legend, the goddess of Love used the place as a refuge after her bath.
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Tags: akamas fauna, akamas flora, akamas peninsula, akamas polis, cyprus akamas, cyprus holidays, cyprus travel