Draft:Limassol Riviera

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Instructions · What links here · Limassol Riviera (talk: + · bio) · (log) · Copyvios report · reFill · Citation Bot · (Search: Google, Wikipedia) · Submitted 11 days ago by Czeved (talk: D · +) · Last edited 11 days ago by Czeved

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Location

Limassol Riviera (Greek: Ριβιέρα Λεμεσού) is the 70 km (43.4 miles) coastline of the southeast corner of Cyprus. There is no official boundary, but it is considered to be the coastal area that is extending from Pentakomo [1] as the eastern border, stretching up to the western point and seaside resort of Pissouri [2]. It specifically refers to the upscale coastal destination, beachside area of Limassol, Cyprus. Limassol, Cyprus is known for its medieval castles, ancient ruins, cultural festivals and stylish seafront living. From exploring archaeological wonders like Kourion to enjoying a glass of local wine by the marina, this city offers the perfect mix of history, relaxation and modern charm. Limassol has become the second largest city in Cyprus and hosts the island’s main port. It is renowned for its extravagant annual events, attracting numerous visitors from both the island and around the globe.

Lifestyle

Limassol is transformed rapidly into a modern, cosmopolitan hotspot that blends leisure, luxury, and investment. The term "Limassol Riviera" refers to the upscale coastal zone of Limassol, related with luxurious beachside living. This is a new lifestyle concept known for its glamorous real estate, VIP holiday services, high-end residences with elegant architecture, and top-tier hospitality offerings. A concept for fine living that represents a unique way of experiencing Limassol, blending opulent beach life with cultural experiences and innovation [3]. Limassol Riviera is connected with a dynamic and stylish atmosphere, fine dining and wellness treatments that are integral parts of the experience offered. The environment is described as playful and sophisticated, catering to those who appreciate a lively and stylish lifestyle [4].

History

Ancient

The town of Lemesos (Limassol) is situated between the ancient towns of Amathus and Kourion. Richard I of England destroyed Amathus in 1191. Lemesos (Limassol) was probably built after Amathus had been ruined. However, the town of Lemesos was inhabited since the very old times. Graves that were found there date back to 2.000 B.C. and others date back to the 8th and 4th century B.C. These few remains that were left behind show that a small colonization must have existed which did not manage to develop and flourish [5].

Medieval

For a period of about three centuries (1192–1489), Limassol enjoyed remarkable prosperity. Cyprus had a great number of Latin bishops, which lasted until the occupation of Cyprus by the Ottoman Turks in 1570. The Latin Battalion established monasteries and settled down there. The settlement of merchants in Cyprus and particularly in Limassol in the 13th century enhanced the welfare of its inhabitants. Its harbor became a center of transportation and commerce, contributing greatly to its financial and cultural development.[5]

British Colony

1878 - 1960

Platres has been a popular hill resort since the British took control of the island of Cyprus in 1878. Initially, Egyptian expatriates visited Platres on vacation, which was subsequently followed by foreigners affiliated with the Egyptian international community. Almost all of the notable individuals and celebrities who visited Cyprus lodged in the elegant hotels of Platres. Importing their taste for cool retreats, away from the heat of the coast, the colonial settlers rapidly established a network of hotels, bars and shady walks around the small village that previously existed on the site.

From the early years of the British Cyprus rule, every summer the colonial government transferred their administration in the Troodos region, so the Governor’s residence was relocated at the current Summer Presidential Residence between Platres and the Troodos Square. The development of infrastructure in the area contributed to the growth of Platres, and thus, from the early years of the 20th century, the first hotels of Cyprus began to be built, along with luxurious villas by wealthy families of the island. The British colonial administration in Cyprus “discovered” the remarkable climate and natural splendor of Platres in 1878. Limassol coastline was one of the first modern resort areas for the British upper class at the end of the 18th century. The aristocratic era began from Platres, a summer resort situated about 25 kilometers (16 miles) north-west of the Limassol. It became the playground and vacation spot of British and other aristocrats. The uniqueness of the majestic vacation houses in Platres will always be a reference point for those visiting the area, reminding of the aristocratic air of the oldest holiday resort in Cyprus [6].

As a result, they selected the area to establish a military outpost to oversee the Troodos Mountains region and to accommodate English soldiers during the summer months, following the relocation of the government to the present-day Presidential Residence situated between Platres and Troodos Square. This marked the beginning of the community’s tourism development. As a result of British promotion and the establishment of new conditions in 1890, estranged Cypriots residing in Egypt were granted access to the “paradise on earth” and initiated the construction of opulent mansions equipped with every amenity imaginable, including a paved road connecting Limassol to the mainland, water, electricity, telephone, and postal service. This marked the beginning of the construction of luxury vacation homes. Certain Egyptians appropriated parcels of land from the villagers on the condition that they construct dwellings thereon, which I would occupy for a period of two decades prior to returning the structures to the plot’s proprietors [7].

Concurrently, however, the inaugural tourist lodgings were being built in Platres, marking the opening of the island’s gates to the public for the first time. Two Egyptian families, the Skyrianides Family and the Cypriot Family, utilized everything the English introduced to Platres to lay the groundwork for tourism development. The initial hotels and inns constructed in Platres were designated Ta Krya Nera Hotel in 1900, followed by the Platres Hotel in 1905, which was subsequently renamed the Grand Hotel. The Pafsilypon Hotel first opened in 1912 was acquired by the Skyrianides Family in 1912, and has been closed since the mid-1980s [6]. Among the first investors in Platres was Nikolaos Kypriotis from Limassol, a name he acquired after serving as a volunteer in World War I and the Balkan Wars. Nikolaos Kypriotis was born in 1872 and passed away in 1940, and he is considered as one the first hoteliers in Cyprus. Initially, he owned a hotel on Agios Andreas Street in Limassol named Troodos Hotel, which he later sold [8]. In 1906, he built the Grand Hotel Helvetia in a pine-covered slope in the Platres area, aiming at hosting distinguished guests, where Nikolaos Kypriotis expanded the hotel in 1929, renaming it New Helvetia, and it still exists today [8].

The Grand Switzerland was established by the Cypriot Family in 1915. According to press accounts at the time, the Grand Switzerland was the most expansive and ideal hotel in Cyprus. [9]. Monte Carlo Hotel was completed in 1920, featuring the largest ballroom of its era in Cyprus. Kallithea Inn in Platres, Cyprus, was built in the early 1910s, specifically around 1915, and was the first inn in the village at that time. The historic hotel was recently renovated in 2022, maintaining its original structure while incorporating a sophisticated and updated interior design [10]. Simultaneously, numerous residents and foreigners emulated the example, which resulted in the construction of the hotels Pendeli Hotel, Kallithea Hotel, Splendid Hotel, Minerva Hotel, Spring Hotel, Vienna Hotel, Semiramis Hotel, New Switzerland Hotel, Edelweiss Hotel, Mount Royal Hotel and Lunderns Hotel [10]. Various documentation and photos indicate the Petit Palais Hotel standing at the same place since 1926, with a different name as The Grand Britania Hotel [12]. The establishment of hotels in the area placed Cyprus on the global tourism map for the first time, with the first tourists arriving from the then-international community of Egypt, who came to Platres for holidays. Seeing the rise of tourism in the area, the new expansion created a three-story hotel with the characteristic architecture of the region, featuring red bricks (which were made on-site with a special press that still exists today), tiled roofs, wooden frames, and classic furniture that was specially ordered from Austria, representing a living homage to a glorious past of Platres [13].

The Berengaria Hotel opened its doors in the 1930s [18]. It was the dream of Greek Cypriot Ioannis G. Ioannidis Kokkalos. Located in Prodromos, at the top of the Troodos Mountains, it soon became a favorite for both Royalty and the Rich and Famous. Guests included Farouk of Egypt, Archbishop Makarios III of Cyprus, and Winston Churchill [14]. Christofides family having seen an advertisement to lease the Mesapotamos monastery and decided to move to the hills and to convert the monastery to a hotel. The family run the hotel from 1934 to 1939, when the Church decided that they wanted their property back, so he moved to Platres where they rented another hotel, again to be named Mesapotamos Hotel [15]. In 1948, Christofides family also built the Minerva Hotel in Platres [19]. The original Pendeli Hotel began as a country house that let out rooms in the 1940s by the Panayides family, evolving into a hotel through the addition of more rooms over time. The building's pine trees also predate the recent renovation and were established in the 1930s, suggesting a long-standing history for the site. During the mid-1930s around 17 hotels have been traced to exist and operate at Platres. More than 700 tourists and around 2000 locals would spend the summer holidays, enjoying the Nightingales chatter along with the unique climate during the hot summer months, the climate which has always been a dominant characteristic.

Over the years, Platres gained a reputation as the destination for notable people, including King Farouk of Egypt and the Nobel Prize-winning poet Giorgos Seferis. The Brandy Sour cocktail, a drink intimately associated with Cypriot cuisine, was developed for King Farouk at 1936, at the Forest Park Hotel which is situated in Platres [16]. The same hotel is also known as the location at which British writer Daphne du Maurier composed the majority of her novel Rebecca. At the official opening of Forest Park Hotel was attended by the then-British Governor of Cyprus, Sir Herbert Richmond Palmer, who cut the red ribbon. Forest Park was one of the few hotels in the region built to European standards, with bars, lounges, and dining rooms. World celebrities often stayed at the hotel [20]. The Curium Palace Hotel was a renowned historic, 4-star hotel in Limassol, Cyprus, built in 1948 and named after the ancient city of Curium. Designed by Austrian architect Benjamin Günsberg, it was considered a significant example of modernist Cypriot architecture and a symbol of the city's colonial past. Despite the Cyprus Architects Association's efforts to preserve it, the hotel was demolished in June 2023, as local authorities deemed it lacked the required historical protection status. A modern commercial building is being constructed on the site [23].

Modern Days

1960 - 1974

After Cyprus gained independence in 1960, tourism sector grew significantly, becoming a major economic driver and a priority for government development. The development of new hotel infrastructure was vital for the growing tourism sector, saw significant development, with the number of hotels and rooms increasing over the decades. The Cyprus government prioritized tourism development, leading to infrastructure improvements and a strategic shift to develop tourism beyond the mountain resorts of the 1930s [24]. Alasia Hotel’s history is rooted in its continuous operation by the same family of hoteliers since 1963, making it one of Limassol's oldest hotels. A significant transformation occurred in 2010 with a profound rebuild and renovation, transforming the boutique hotel's design to feature transparent white colors, original essential shapes, and innovative materials for a light and elegant aesthetic [25]. Miramare Hotel was an important hotel for the period built in 1964 and then became part of the Atlantica Hotels [27]. Astir Hotel in Limassol has a history a prominent luxury hotel that opened in 1970 [28]. Apollonia Hotel is a five-star beachfront hotel in Limassol, Cyprus, that was originally built in 1971 and underwent a significant renovation in 2013, after which it was renamed The Royal Apollonia [29].

The Amathus Beach Hotel in Limassol opened its doors in 1973 and since 1986, is the first member in Cyprus of “The Leading Hotels of the World”. Back in 1976, the Amathus Hotel launched the first local Cyprus Taverna the “Kamares Taverna” designed and decorated by the famous late painter Xanthos Hadjisoteriou, who later, in 1981, designed the first Fish Taverna in a hotel, by the Sea, the “Limanaki Fish Taverna”. The late Evagoras Lanitis’ vision was to create a hotel with the best specifications and timeless quality. He had chosen the best architects and the best craftsmen of that time to construct his vision, the Amathus. The clairvoyant Evagoras Lanitis chose to build on the beach, at a secluded location in Ancient Amathus. His vision was accomplished in November 1971, when he placed the cornerstone of the building which meant to stand out as an impressive luxurious 5-star hotel. The inspiring architectural design of the hotel by the famous “American Architects Collaborative” (TAC), after a period more than 50 years continues to be modern and yet striking [30].

1974 - 1980

Limassol's tourism grew significantly following the Turkish invasion of 1974 which displaced tourism from Famagusta and Kyrenia to areas like Limassol. This shift spurred the rapid construction of luxury hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, transforming Limassol into a major tourism and commercial hub in Cyprus. Limassol transformed from a relatively sleepy town into Cyprus's economic and tourism hub. The closure of Famagusta's port led to Limassol becoming the country's main port. Dilor Yazbeck, a Lebanese businessman, visited Cyprus for the first time at 1976 and fell in love with the island. That was the deciding factor for him to establish Posidonia Hotel, one of the city’s first beach hotels [31]. Churchill Hotel, first opened its doors in 1979, as an independent hotel, and welcomed its first guests on May 1st. The hotel is now the Crowne Plaza Limassol and their mother company also runs The Churchill Pinewood Valley Hotel, a traditional mountain hotel in Pedhoulas [32]. Kanika Hotels Limassol's history is intertwined with the broader Kanika Group of Companies, which was founded in 1962 by Theodosis Karaolis and expanded into hotels in 1975. The group began with significant construction and land development projects in the Limassol area, establishing a strong reputation before focusing on hospitality [33]. Also Arsinoe Beach Hotel was built in 1978 [34].

1980 - 1995

In the 1980s, and during The War of the Camps, Port of Limassol gained additional traffic and attention from international container ship companies, and became the home to many thousands of prosperous refugees from Lebanon, while the influx of Greek Cypriot refugees spurred rapid development, resulting in new hotels, restaurants, and an expanding urban landscape [35]. Pefkos Hotel in Limassol, Cyprus, was founded as a family business by the Eustathiou family and has been operating since at least 1981, evolving into a modern three-star hotel known for its family-run approach. Shukri Hanna Shammas came to Cyprus from Lebanon hoping to build a resort – the marina and hotel. His son Nizam and nephew Said set about the task with enthusiasm, and a few years later Sheraton Hotel (later St. Raphael Resort) and St. Raphael Marina appeared, the first in Limassol. It was the largest commercial marina (237 berths) not only in Cyprus, but throughout the whole eastern Mediterranean [36].

Atlantica Hotels' history began in the 1980s in Limassol, with 25 holiday apartments that became the Atlantica Oasis Hotel. The brand name was established in 1996 with the Atlantica Bay and the company became Atlantica Leisure Group Ltd. in 2000. The group expanded significantly, including acquisitions in Rhodes and Crete, and introduced the first TUI Sensatori Resort in 2008 [37]. The Londa Beach Hotel was also built in 1982 [38], and Elias Beach Hotel in 1986. The Le Méridien Hotel in Limassol, Cyprus, was built in 1989 [71], and it underwent extensive renovations and extensions in 1991-1992. The hotel was later renamed and renovated again in 2016-2019, reopening in 2019 as the Parklane Luxury Collection Resort & Spa. Ajax Hotel and Mediterranean Beach Hotel were built in 1991, Hawaii Grand Hotel in 1992. Four Seasons Hotel was bult in 1993 [39], the independently owned and operated hotel is located on its own sandy beach, east of the city center, and is a five-star deluxe property with 301 rooms and extensive facilities.

1995 - 2010

In the 1990s, and during the Bosnian War, Serbia (as part of the collapsing Yugoslavia) and Cyprus maintained a strong "Greek-Serbian friendship", with thousands of Serbs refugees moving to Limassol as their new home establishment [69]. Limassol became a new home for many, offering a sense of freedom and a respite from the military presence and disruptions experienced elsewhere, although the emotional connection to their original homes remained. In 1990, the concept of "shipowners to Cyprus" refers to a significant presence of shipowners registering their vessels under the Cyprus flag, attracting them with its geographic location and supportive legal framework for the maritime industry. This trend has made Cyprus a global hub for international shipping, maintaining one of the world's largest registered merchant fleets. Many international shipowners found Limassol as an ideal destination for registering their vessels, leveraging the island's advantageous maritime policies and strategic position [70].

The influx of Russians in Cyprus began notably after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s. Many Russians were attracted to Cyprus because of its warmer climate, business opportunities, and beneficial tax policies for foreign investors. [72] There are many Russians Cypriots in Limassol due to economic factors, a favorable business and tax environment, and lifestyle benefits, which began with the post-Soviet influx in the 1990s. Cyprus's EU membership, investment programs like the Golden Visa, and the appeal of a Mediterranean lifestyle with high-quality infrastructure and education also contribute to its attractiveness as a base for Russian businesses and individuals, particularly those from Russia's post-Soviet neighbors [73]. Russians have changed Limassol by transforming its economy and skyline, primarily through investment in real estate and business, fueled by the island's citizenship-by-investment program and tax policies. This influx of Russian money and residents has led to the construction of luxury apartment complexes, increased the presence of Russian-language businesses and institutions like schools and banks, and created a large Russophone community that has reshaped the city's cultural and economic landscape, earning it the nickname "Limassolgrad". In particular, Limassol has become a hub for the Russian-speaking population, with many Russian businesses, schools, and churches being established in the city. The coastal resort of Limassol was dubbed ‘Little Russia’ and visitors likened it to a smaller version of Dubai where the names of skyscrapers were in Cyrillic rather than Arabic [74].

The AMARA hotel was built and opened in 2019. It is a luxury, 5-star hotel located on the coast of Limassol [54]. The Columbia Beach Resort was built and opened to guests in 2002 [48]. It was later renovated in 2017 to maintain its five-star luxury status. The City of Dreams Mediterranean in Limassol, Cyprus, began construction in 2018 and opened its doors to the public on July 10, 2023. The hotel operates a casino that occupies about 7,500 square metres (81,000 sq ft) and, at launch, included roughly 1,000 slot machines and about 100 live gaming tables, with dedicated VIP rooms [54]. Construction was planned for an earlier date but was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine [60]. NYX Limassol Hotel, opened its doors to its first clients in May 2023 [55]. Limassol, with its port and established business infrastructure, became a hub for Russian-speaking businesses, including tech companies, real estate, and other industries [58]. Limassol offers a high standard of living, modern infrastructure, good education, and quality medical services, making it an appealing place to live [58]. The Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 led to a further wave of Russian and Ukrainian arrivals to Cyprus, with some seeking to distance themselves from the conflict or pursue career opportunities abroad [68].

2010 – Present

One of the oldest and historic (still active) local restaurants is Neon Phaliro. Phaliron first restaurant was located in Famagusta built literally on the beach. Started the business early 1960 by an entrepreneur called as we know today Mr. Tassos. It was considered to be one of the most know and popular restaurant in town. After the Turkish invasion in 1974 and the occupation up to our days from the Turkish army, the restaurant reopens in Limassol in 1975 as Neon Phaliron [64].

Restaurant chains improved quality in Limassol by upgrading menus with higher-quality ingredients and new options, renovating dining spaces for a better ambiance, increasing staff training on food safety and service, and implementing technology for faster service and online ordering. The initiative improved food recipes, while revamping their kitchen, store design, and service for increased efficiency and customer appeal. Founded in 1996, Uptown Square is a group of restaurants each of the restaurants has its own history, unique character and personality [65]. PNS Restaurants was established in 1997 as a food and beverage management group in Cyprus, becoming one of the leading players in the sector by developing recognizable brands and consistently delivering exceptional quality [63]. Columbia Restaurants was established in 1998 as part of Schoeller Holdings. The company began its journey with the first international PizzaExpress franchise and has since expanded to operate various restaurant, bar, and confectionery concepts in Cyprus [66].Carob Mill Restaurants Ltd is a hospitality company based in Limassol, Cyprus. Established in 2002, the company operates three restaurants and a lounge café-bar, offering a variety of cuisines including Cypriot, Mediterranean, and International [62].

Limassol is a rapidly growing city known for extensive real estate development, including the construction of skyscrapers and luxury residential projects.Limassol typically examines its rapid urbanization and ongoing real estate projects, including a new port quay and affordable housing initiatives, which face challenges from rising land costs and sustainability concerns. For instance, one case study analyzed the historical and recent transformation of the coastal area, influenced by major infrastructure projects and planning policies, highlighting the tension between economic growth and environmental sustainability. In 2014, Limassol was ranked by TripAdvisor as the 3rd up-and-coming destination in the world, in its Top 10 Traveler's Choice Destinations on the Rise list. The city is also ranked 89th worldwide in Mercer's Quality of Living Survey (2017). Limassol still claims to be the town of the merriest people on the island, those who love life and know how to live it [75].

Limassol among the best cities to start a business

International research centre StartupBlink has released its annual list of countries with the best startup ecosystems in the world. According to the latest data, Cyprus has moved up 9 places in the overall ranking to become the fastest growing startup ecosystem in the European Union in 2024. At the same time, Limassol has been recognised as the best city for startups in Southern Europe [76].This impressive achievement is due to active government support, favourable tax policies, the creation of an investment-attractive climate and the influx of highly skilled professionals into the technology sector. Startups in Cyprus are actively developing in areas such as fintech, iGaming, cybersecurity, blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI) and other technological fields [77]. It is worth mentioning that when compiling the ranking, experts took into account data from more than 100 countries and 1,000 cities around the world. As a result, Cyprus' performance was very impressive:

6th in the world for the number of start-ups valued up to €1 billion; [78].
9th in the world for number of investors per capita;
39th in the world in financial technology (FinTech) and 25th in online gaming (iGaming);
the total number of start-ups has increased 5-fold since 2020;
Cyprus was the only country with a population of less than 2 million to have four cities ranked in the Global Startup Index;
Limassol was recognised as the best city for startups in Southern Europe. [79].