Larnaca’s Aqueduct in Kamares
Tucked on the western end of the Larnaca city center, the Kamares old aqueduct is a splendid glimpse of lifestyles and architectural influences from the ancient city of Kition. The old aqueduct borders on the north-western end of the Larnaca Salt Lake, so if you’re planning to explore this incredible heritage site, you have a great many adventures in store!
The Greek word Kamares means ‘arches’, and it is symbolic of the fact that the entire structure comprises of 75 majestic arches. These arches can be seen from the road that takes you to Limassol from the Kamares area.
Constructed in 1745, the aqueduct was commissioned by the then Ottoman Governor of Larnaca, Abu Bekir Pasha. The Ottoman Governor financed the entire project in a bid to put an end to the water shortages experienced by the people of Larnaca. The aqueduct was a formidable solution as it drew water from the River Tremithos and its surrounding water springs. The aqueduct allowed the water to travel through the city and port, bringing an end to the water shortages.
According to historical accounts, Bekir Pasha commissioned the project through a Greek Cypriot interpreter, Christofakis. The Ottoman Governor handed Christofakis a pouch filled with money, and directed him to oversee the construction. However, Christofakis lost the money, and trembling with fear, he began praying to Saint George to helping him retrieve the pouch.
The legend goes that Christofakis had a vision, where Saint George showed him where he had left the pouch. Overjoyed, Christofakis not only undertook the commissioned project of the aqueduct, but also built a church in the honor of the revered Saint. The Saint George Arpera Church is tucked away in the picturesque village of Tersefanou.
The aqueduct continued to serve the city and replenish water supplies until 1939. Today, the entire area surrounding the aqueduct is known as Kamares, and it serves as a poignant landmark to revisit the rich history and architectural influence of Larnaca.
The Kamares aqueduct attracts locals and tourists with its majestic presence near the Larnaca City Center. It blends into the landscape with utmost harmony against the urban, cosmopolitan structures that define modern Larnaca. The aqueduct is an utterly beautiful sight to behold at night, when all the arches are illuminated. It’s a mesmerizing play of light and architecture, and you simply have to feast your eyes on this splendor!
Visit the Larnaca Tourism Board for more information.