View source for Limassol

{{Short description|Largest city in Cyprus}}
{{Redirect|Limasol|the racehorse|Limasol (horse)}}
{{Infobox settlement
| name               = Limassol
| native_name        = {{small|{{native name|el|Λεμεσός}}<br />{{native name|tr|Limasol}}}}
| image_skyline      = {{multiple image
  | total_width              = 300
  | border                   = infobox
  | perrow                   = 1/2/2/2
  | caption_align            = center
  | image1                   = Skyscrapers in Limassol.jpg
  | alt1                     = A ground view of the Limassol seafront, with the Trilogy buildings and the Limassol One building triumphing over the city
  | caption1                 = Trilogy buildings (left) and [[One Limassol|ONE]] in the distance 
  | image2                   = Limassol 01-2017 img21 Castle exterior.jpg
  | alt2                     = The medieval castle in Limassol
  | caption2                 = [[Limassol Castle]]
  | image3                   = Limassol Altstadt.jpg
  | alt3                     = Street in the Old Town of Limassol
  | caption3                 = Street in the Old Town
  | image4                   = LIMASSOL MOLOS 01.jpg
  | alt4                     =View of Limassol taken from Limassol Molos
  | caption4                 = [[Limassol Molos]]
  | image5                   = Limassol 01-2017 img18 Marina.jpg
  | alt5                     = Boats docked in the Limassol Marina
  | caption5                 = [[Port of Limassol#Limassol Old Port-Limassol Marina|Limassol Marina]]
  | image6                   = The Oval.jpg
  | alt6                     = The Oval office building in Limassol
  | caption6                 = [[The Oval (Limassol)|The Oval]]
  | image7                   = City of Dreams Mediterranean Resort.jpg
  | alt7                     = City of Dreams Mediterranean in Limassol
  | caption7                 = [[City of Dreams Mediterranean|City of Dreams]]}}
| image_flag         = 
| image_seal         = Limassol Municipality Logo.png
| mapframe           = yes
| mapframe-zoom      = 11
| mapframe-id        = Q28870916
| mapframe-point     = none
| map_caption        = Interactive map outlining Limassol Municipality
| pushpin_map        = Cyprus#European_Union
| pushpin_relief     = y
| pushpin_image      = Cyprus relief location map.jpg#European Union relief laea location map.svg
| pushpin_mapsize    = 300
| pushpin_map_caption = Location within [[Cyprus]]##Location within the [[European Union]]
| coordinates        = {{coord|34|40|29|N|33|02|39|E|region:CY-02_type:city(101,000)|display=inline,title}}
| subdivision_type   = [[List of sovereign states|Country]]
| subdivision_name   = {{flag|Cyprus}}
| subdivision_type1  = [[Districts of Cyprus|District]]
| subdivision_name1  = [[Limassol District]]
| subdivision_type2  = Municipality
| subdivision_name2  = Limassol Municipality
| leader_title       = [[Deputy Mayor]]
| leader_name        = [[Demos Katsis]]
| area_total_km2     = 35.09
| area_footnotes     = <ref>{{Cite web |title=Cyprus: Limassol Urban Agglomeration (Municipalities, Communities and Quarters) - Population Statistics, Charts and Map |url=https://www.citypopulation.de/en/cyprus/limassol/admin/ |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=www.citypopulation.de}}</ref>
| population_total   = 108,105
| population_as_of   = 2021
| population_urban   = 198,558
| postal_code_type   = [[Postal codes in Cyprus|Post code]]
| postal_code        = 3010–3150
| website            = {{URL|https://www.limassol.org.cy}}
| timezone           = [[Eastern European Time|EET]]
| utc_offset         = +2
| timezone_DST       = [[Eastern European Summer Time|EEST]]
| utc_offset_DST     = +3
| other_name         = Lemesos
| settlement_type    = [[List of cities, towns and villages in Cyprus#District capital cities|City]] and [[List of cities, towns and villages in Cyprus|Municipal District]]
| blank_name_sec1    = [[Patron Saint]]
| blank_info_sec1    = [[John the Merciful]] (12 November)
| blank_info_sec2    = [[Port of Limassol]]
| blank_name_sec2    = Major port(s)
| area_code          = 25
| population_rank    = [[List of cities, towns and villages in Cyprus#Municipalities|1st]] municipality,<ref>{{Cite web |title=CENSUS OF POPULATION AND HOUSING 2021: PRELIMINARY RESULTS BY DISTRICT AND MUNICIPALITY/COMMUNITY |url=https://library.cystat.gov.cy/NEW/Census2021-Preliminary_Results-EN-040823.pdf |access-date=2024-03-10}}</ref> [[List of cities, towns and villages in Cyprus#District capital cities|2nd]] urban in Cyprus
| total_type         = [[List of cities, towns and villages in Cyprus#Municipalities|Municipality]]
| area_urban_km2     = 124.71
| population_urban_footnotes = <ref name="cystat.gov.cy"/>
| population_density_urban_km2 = auto
| population_footnotes = <ref name="cystat.gov.cy"/>
| population_demonym = Limassolian(s) ([[English language|en]]) ''Lemesianos'' (masc.), ''Lemesiani'' (fem.) ([[Greek language|gr]])
| iso_code           = [[ISO 3166-2:CY|CY-02]]
| area_code_type     = [[Telephone numbers in Cyprus|Area code]]
| population_blank1_title = [[Limassol District|District]]<ref name="cystat.gov.cy"/>
| population_blank1  = 262238
}}

'''Limassol''',{{Efn|{{IPAc-en|ˈ|l|ɪ|m|ə|s|ɒ|l}} {{respell|LIM|ə|sol}}.}} also known as '''Lemesos''',{{Efn|{{langx|el|Λεμεσός|Lemesós}}, {{IPA|el|lemeˈsos|IPA}}, or dated {{langx|el|Λεμησσός|Lemissós|label=none}}; {{langx|tr|Limasol}} or dated {{lang|tr|Leymosun}}.}} is a city along the southern [[coast]] of [[Cyprus]], on the [[Mediterranean Sea]]. Limassol is the most populated municipality in Cyprus, with a population of 108,105<ref>{{Cite web |title=CENSUS OF POPULATION AND HOUSING 2021: PRELIMINARY RESULTS BY DISTRICT AND MUNICIPALITY/COMMUNITY |url=https://library.cystat.gov.cy/NEW/Census2021-Preliminary_Results-EN-040823.pdf |access-date=2024-03-10}}</ref> and is the second-largest [[urban area]] in Cyprus, after [[Nicosia]], with an urban population of 195,139.<ref name="cystat.gov.cy">{{Cite web|url=https://www.cystat.gov.cy/en/KeyFiguresList?s=46|title=Population – Predefined Tables|website=www.mof.gov.cy|access-date=2023-08-07}}</ref> It is the capital of the [[Limassol District]] with a population of 262,238.<ref name="cystat.gov.cy" />

Limassol was built between two [[Ten city-kingdoms of Cyprus|ancient Greek cities]], [[Amathus]] and [[Kourion]]. Its historical centre is located around the medieval [[Limassol Castle]] and the Old Port.<ref>{{Cite web |last=harakisnews |date=2018-09-27 |title=The historical centre of Limassol |url=https://harakis.com/the-historical-centre-of-limassol/ |access-date=2024-03-07 |website=P. Harakis Ltd |language=en-US}}</ref> The city spreads along the [[Mediterranean]] coast and has extended much farther than the castle and port, with its suburbs stretching along the coast to Amathus. To the west of the city is [[RAF Akrotiri|Akrotiri]], one of the two [[British Overseas Territories]] of [[Akrotiri and Dhekelia]] on the island.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wilks |first=Andrew |title=UK's alleged use of Cyprus bases to arm Israel and hit Yemen draw protests |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/1/15/uk-bases-in-cyprus-protests |access-date=2024-03-07 |website=Al Jazeera |language=en}}</ref>

In 2014, Limassol was ranked by [[Tripadvisor|TripAdvisor]] as the third most up-and-coming destination in the world, in its Top 10 Travelers' Choice Destinations on the Rise list.<ref>[http://www.kpmg.com/CY/en/IssuesAndInsights/ArticlesAndPublications/Documents/2015-documents/Cyprus-Tourism-Market-Report.pdf KPMG: Cyprus Tourism Market Report]</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2014/12/02/travel/tripadvisor-destinations-on-the-rise/index.html |title=TripAdvisor names 10 Destinations on the Rise |first=Katia |last=Hetter |date=2 December 2014 |publisher=cnn.com}}</ref> In [[City quality of life indices#Mercer's Quality of Living Ranking|Mercer's Quality of Living Ranking]], the city was ranked 90th in 2023,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Quality of Living City Ranking 2023 |url=https://www.mercer.com/en-ca/insights/total-rewards/talent-mobility-insights/quality-of-living-city-ranking/ |access-date=2024-09-22 |website=www.mercer.com |language=en-CA}}</ref> and 89th in 2017.<ref>{{cite web |date=2017 |title=2017 Quality of Living City Rankings |url=https://mobilityexchange.mercer.com/Portals/0/Content/Rankings/rankings/qol2017e784512/index.html |access-date=31 January 2018 |publisher=Mercer}}</ref> In the 2022 [[Globalization and World Cities Research Network|GaWC]] ranking, Limassol was classified as a "High Sufficiency" city,<ref>{{cite web |title=The World According to GaWC 2022 |url=https://x.com/GaWC/status/1697034411714158980 |access-date=22 September 2024 |website=Twitter |publisher=Globalization and World Cities}}</ref> dropping one category from "Gamma '''−'''" ({{lit|[[global city]]}}) in 2020.<ref>{{Cite web |title=GaWC - The World According to GaWC 2020 |url=https://www.lboro.ac.uk/microsites/geography/gawc/world2020t.html |access-date=2024-09-22 |website=www.lboro.ac.uk |archive-date=2022-06-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220612112616/https://www.lboro.ac.uk/microsites/geography/gawc/world2020t.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>

== Etymology ==
The name "Limassol" derives from the [[ancient Greek]] word "Nemesos" ({{langx|el|Νέμεσσος||translit=Nemessos|translit-std=}}), meaning "one found in the middle". This likely refers to the city's location between the ancient towns of Amathus and Kourion. Over time, the name evolved into "Lemesos", which is known in English as "Limassol." <ref>{{Cite web |title=Limassol: Explore Cyprus' most vibrant Coastal Town - My Cyprus Travel {{!}} Imagine. Explore. Discover. |url=https://mycyprustravel.com/limassol/ |access-date=2024-10-01 |website=My Cyprus Travel}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Ιστορία |url=https://www.limassol.org.cy/el/history |access-date=2024-10-01 |website=www.limassol.org.cy |language=el}}</ref>

== History ==
=== Ancient ===
[[File:Limestone sarcophagus- the Amathus sarcophagus MET DT352.jpg|left|thumb|180x180px|[[Limestone]] [[sarcophagus]] found in [[Amathus]], dating to the 5th century BC<ref>{{Cite web |title=Limestone sarcophagus: the Amathus sarcophagus {{!}} Cypriot {{!}} Archaic |url=https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/242006 |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=The Metropolitan Museum of Art |language=en}}</ref>]]
[[File:Episkopi 01-2017 img03 Kourion.jpg|thumb|[[Kourion]] [[Kourion#Theatre|Theatre]]|left|180x180px]]Limassol is situated between the ancient city-kingdoms of [[Amathus]], founded around 1100 BC by Greek settlers, and [[Kourion]], founded around the same time. Settlements in the modern area of Limassol were most likely founded after the decline and destruction of Amathus, around the 7th century AD. The area around Limassol shows evidence of human activity dating back to the Neolithic period (around 7000 BC). Sites like [[Khirokitia|Chirokitia]], although not directly in Limassol, indicate the presence of early farming communities. During the Bronze Age, the region saw the development of more complex societies, with evidence of trade and cultural exchanges with neighbouring regions. Ancient writers and geographers mention nothing about the foundation of the town.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=History of Limassol |url=https://www.limassol.org.cy/en/history |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=www.limassol.org.cy |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=allaboutlimassol.com |title=Allaboutlimassol.com - Ancient Times |url=https://allaboutlimassol.com/en/ancient-times/ |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=allaboutlimassol.com |language=en |archive-date=2024-11-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241130195526/https://allaboutlimassol.com/en/ancient-times/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=cyprustravellerguide.com |date=2024-06-30 |title=A BRIEF HISTORY OF LIMASSOL |url=https://cyprustravellerguide.com/a-brief-history-of-limassol/ |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=CYPRUS TRAVELLER GUIDE |language=en-GB}}</ref>

According to the [[Council of Chalcedon]] which took place in 451, the local bishop as well as the bishops of Amathus and Arsinoe were involved in the foundation of the city, which would be known by the names of '''Theodosiana''' and '''Neapolis'''.<ref>''The acts of the Council of Chalcedon'' by Council of Chalcedon, Richard Price, Michael Gaddis 2006 {{ISBN|0-85323-039-0}} [https://books.google.com/books?id=6IUaOOT1G3UC&dq=Chalcedon+catholic+anglican+eastern&pg=PA94]</ref> Bishop [[Leontios of Neapolis]] was an important church writer in the 7th century. The records of the 7th Synod (757) refer to it as the bishop's see. The town was known as '''Lemesos''' by the 10th century.<ref>{{Cite web |title=History of Limassol |url=https://www.limassol.org.cy/en/history |access-date=2025-03-03 |website=www.limassol.org.cy |language=en}}</ref>

===Medieval===
[[File:Kolossi Castle 01.JPG|thumb|View of [[Kolossi Castle]] built in 1210 by the Frankish military.|left|180x180px]]
The history of Limassol is largely known by the events associated with the [[Third Crusade]]. The king of England, [[Richard the Lionheart]], was travelling to the [[Holy Land]] in 1190.<ref name="CyprusHistory">{{cite web |url=http://www.cypnet.co.uk/ncyprus/history/17.htm |title=Cyprus History: Cyprus under Richard I – cypnet.co.uk |last=Cypnet.co.uk |work=cypnet.co.uk |year=2011 |access-date=5 July 2011}}</ref> His fiancée, [[Berengaria of Navarre|Berengaria]], and his sister, [[Joan of England, Queen of Sicily|Joan]], were also travelling there, but on a different ship. Due to a storm, the women's ship arrived in Limassol.<ref name="CyprusHistory"/> [[Isaac Komnenos of Cyprus|Isaac Komnenos]], the renegade Byzantine governor of Cyprus, invited the noblewomen ashore, with the intention of holding them for ransom, but they refused. So he refused them fresh water and they had to put out to sea again or yield to capture. When Richard arrived in Limassol and met Isaac Komnenos, he asked him to contribute to the crusade for the liberation of the [[Holy Land]].<ref name="CyprusHistory"/> At first Isaac agreed but later on refused. Richard took him captive; the entire island was taken over by the [[Anglo-Normans]], bringing the long Byzantine dominion of Cyprus to an end.<ref>Wolff and Hazard, pp. 63–64</ref> Richard celebrated his marriage with Berengaria who had received the crown as queen of England in Cyprus. Richard destroyed Amathus and the inhabitants were transferred to Limassol.<ref name="CyprusHistory"/>

A year later, in 1191 Cyprus was sold for the sum of 100,000 [[bezant]]s to the [[Templars]], rich monks and soldiers whose aim was the protection of the [[Holy Sepulchre]] in [[Jerusalem]].<ref name="CyprusHistory"/>

The knights imposed high taxes, in order to get back the money they had paid for Cyprus. This led to the revolt of the Cypriots, who wished to get rid of the bond of promise. Richard accepted their request and a new purchaser was found: [[Guy of Lusignan]], a [[Roman Catholic]] from [[Poitou]], who handed Cyprus over to the French dynasty of the house of [[Lusignan]], thus establishing the medieval [[Kingdom of Cyprus]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Bozkurtoğlu |first=Özge |date=2018-01-01 |title=A Multi-lingual Island in the Middle Ages: Cyprus of the Lusignan Dynasty |url=https://www.academia.edu/39786867 |journal=A Multi-lingual Island in the Middle Ages: Cyprus of the Lusignan Dynasty}}</ref><ref>{{Citation |last=Nicholson |first=Helen |title=Remembering the crusaders in Cyprus: the Lusignans, the Hospitallers and the 1191 conquest of Cyprus in Jean d'Arras' Mélusine |date=2018-01-18 |pages=158–172 |editor-last=Parsons |editor-first=Simon Thomas |url=https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/108535/ |access-date=2024-10-04 |place=Woodbridge, Suffolk |publisher=D. S. Brewer |isbn=978-1-84384-458-7 |editor2-last=Paterson |editor2-first=Linda M.}}</ref>

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 Empire|Ottomans]] in 1570. The Latin battalions 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 harbour became a centre of transportation and commerce, contributing greatly to its financial and [[cultural development]].<ref name=":1" />

===Venetian rule===
Cyprus was sold in 1489 to [[Venice]] by the Cypriot Queen [[Catherine Cornaro]].<ref name="ChurchillDavenport1900">{{cite book|last1=Churchill|first1=Lady Randolph Spencer|last2=Davenport|first2=Cyril James Humphries|title=The Anglo-Saxon Review|url=https://archive.org/details/anglosaxonrevie08churgoog|access-date=13 March 2013|year=1900|publisher=John Lane|pages=[https://archive.org/details/anglosaxonrevie08churgoog/page/n261 215]–22}}</ref> The Venetians were not interested in Cyprus. They only wanted to  tax and exploit the island’s resources. All the inhabitants were enslaved by the Venetians, and were obliged to give a third of their income, including products of the land. Travelers who visited Cyprus in the 16th century commented on the poor condition of the local population in the towns of the island.<ref name=":1" />

In 1538 the [[Ottoman Empire|Ottomans]] captured the city and the [[Limassol Castle|Limassol castle]]. The Venetian governor of Cyprus, after recapturing the castle, decided to demolish it in order to avoid its possible seizure. This destruction was completed in 1567-68. Two years later the Ottomans recaptured the city.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Τμήμα Αρχαιοτήτων - Αρχική Σελίδα |url=http://www.culture.gov.cy/dmculture/da/da.nsf/DMLindex_gr/DMLindex_gr?OpenDocument |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=www.culture.gov.cy}}</ref>

=== Ottoman rule ===
[[File:Ottomans conquering the Limassol Castle.png|thumb|272x272px|[[Ottoman Empire|Ottomans]] conquering the [[Limassol Castle]] in 1570|left]]The [[Ottoman Empire]] [[Ottoman–Venetian War (1570–1573)|invaded Cyprus]] in 1570–1577 and occupied it.<ref name="Turnbull57">Turnbull (2000), p. 57</ref><ref name="Abulafia447">Abulafia (2012), p. 447</ref> Limassol was conquered in July 1570 without any resistance. After the [[Ottoman–Venetian War (1570–73)|Ottoman acquisition of Cyprus]] in 1576, the remains or parts of the remains of the Limassol castle were incorporated in the new Ottoman fort, completed in 1590, which was considerably strengthened. The underground chamber and the first floor were transformed into prison cells and remained in use until 1950.<ref name=":2" />

Some neighbourhoods, primarily to the east of the city, were predominantly Greek, while those to the west were mainly Turkish, with a mixed area around the castle. Christians lived in small, low houses that required one to bend to enter, a deliberate design to prevent Turks from riding horses into the homes. During the period of Turkish rule, Cyprus experienced a general decline. The Turks did not contribute to any development, and Greeks and Turks lived in separate neighbourhoods. The intellectual standards of Cypriots declined due to the lack of interest from the conquerors, oppression, and high taxation, which hindered the intellectual development of children.<ref name=":1" />

The church played an important role in the education of Greeks during the years 1754–1821. During those years, many new schools were established all over the island, most notable in Limassol being the [[Laniteio Lyceum|Greek School]] (modern-day Laniteio Lyceum). [[History of Greece|Greek history]], Turkish and French were taught at schools.<ref name=":1" />

===British colony===
[[File:Limassol Old Town 19.JPG|thumb|Limassol Old Town with British colonial architecture|left]]
In 1878, the [[British Empire|British]] had administrative control over Cyprus after the [[Cyprus Convention|Cyprus convention]]. The first British governor of Limassol was Colonel Warren.<ref name="Daedalus">{{cite web|url=http://www.daedalus.gr/prdinformatics/HOC/britishoccupationofcyprusAEn.htm |title=The History of Cyprus – The British occupation |last=Daedalus Informatics |work=daedalus.gr |year=2006 |access-date=9 September 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120402085458/http://www.daedalus.gr/prdinformatics/HOC/britishoccupationofcyprusAEn.htm |archive-date=April 2, 2012 }}</ref> He showed a particular interest in Limassol and even from the first days the condition of the town showed an improvement. The roads were cleaned, the animals were removed from the centre, roads were fixed, trees were planted and docks were constructed for the loading and unloading of those ships that were anchored off-shore. Lanterns for the lighting of the central areas were also installed in the 1880s. In 1912, electricity replaced the old lanterns.<ref name="Daedalus"/>

From the first years of the British occupation, a [[post office]], a telegraph office and a hospital began to operate.<ref name= Daedalus/> In 1880, the first [[printing press]] started working. It was in this printing press that the newspapers ''Alithia'' and ''Anagennisis'' were published in 1897. The newspaper ''Salpinx'' was published at the same time.

At the end of the 19th century, the first hotels began to operate. Among these were Europe and Amathus. These changes that the British brought about contributed to the development of an intellectual and artistic life. Schools, theatres, clubs, [[art museum|art galleries]], [[music hall]]s, sport societies, [[football team|football clubs]] etc. were all set up and meant a great deal to the cultural life of Limassol.<ref name=":1" />

=== Modern day ===
Due to the [[Turkish invasion of Cyprus|Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974]] the [[Turkish Cypriots|Turkish Cypriot]] inhabitants of Limassol were transferred to the north of Cyprus. Accordingly, many [[Greek Cypriots]] refugees settled down in the city. When [[Famagusta]] was occupied by Turkish troops, Limassol experienced rapid growth fuelled by the large population increase and the need for housing. Many luxury hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues were built, making Limassol the new commerce centre of Cyprus, the role which had been filled by Famagusta.<ref name=":1" />

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.<ref name=":3" />

== Geography ==

=== Municipalities and quarters ===
Today, the Limassol [[urban area]] includes the Limassol Municipality and the municipalities of [[Kato Polemidia]], [[Mesa Geitonia]], [[Agios Athanasios, Cyprus|Agios Athanasios]], [[Germasogeia]], and [[Ypsonas]]. For administrative purposes, the municipalities of Limassol are divided into quarters, with the exception of [[Ypsonas]].
{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|+'''Map of Limassol's Municipalities and their quarters'''
!{{Location map+|Limassol municipalities with quarters|float=center|overlay_image=|caption=|places={{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.72121293|long=33.05231401|label='''[[Agios Athanasios, Cyprus|Agios Athanasios Municipality]]'''|marksize=0|position=top}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.712881|long=33.056873|label=[[Agios Athanasios, Cyprus|Agios Athanasios]]|marksize=5|position=left}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.708026|long=33.056765|label=[[Apostolos Loukas, Agios Athanasios|Apostolos Loukas]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.693626|long=33.071979|label=[[Agios Georgiou Fragkoudi]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.702226|long=33.067548|label=[[Agios Stylianos (district)|Agios Stylianos]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}

{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.72398858|long=33.08357366|label='''[[Germasogeia|Germasogeia Municipality]]'''|marksize=0|position=top}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.719862|long=33.084985|label=[[Ayia Paraskevi (Limassol)|Ayia Paraskevi]]|marksize=5|position=left}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.703543|long=33.09099|label=[[Potamos Germasogeias]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}

{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.71819410|long=32.97039144|label='''[[Kato Polemidia|Kato Polemidia Municipality]]'''|marksize=0|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.67722|long=32.993351|label=[[Archangelou Michael (Kato Polemidia)|Archangelou Michael]]|marksize=5|position=left}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.685496|long=32.985948|label=[[Anthoupolis (Kato Polemidia)|Anthoupolis]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.680934|long=33.004187|label=Apostolos Varnavas|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.686713|long=33.013081|label=[[Makarios (Kato Polemidia)|Makarios]]|marksize=5|position=top}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.697175|long=32.981377|label=[[Agios Nikolaos (Kato Polemidia)|Agios Nikolaos]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.693665|long=33.000839|label=[[Panayias Evaggelistrias (Kato Polemidia)|Panayias Evaggelistrias]]|marksize=5|position=right}}

{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.72588365|long=33.00944440|label='''[[Limassol Municipality]]'''|marksize=0|position=top}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.683278|long=33.044297|label=[[Agia Zoni (Limassol)|Agia Zoni]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.675658|long=33.046045|label=[[Agia Napa (Limassol)|Agia Napa]]|marksize=5|position=right}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.681155|long=33.050551|label=[[Agia Trias (Limassol)|Agia Trias]]|marksize=5|position=right}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.718806|long=33.019951|label=[[Agia Fyla (Limassol)|Agia Fyla]]|marksize=5|position=top}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.670438|long=33.03986|label=[[Agios Antonios (Limassol)|Agios Antonios]]|marksize=5|position=right}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.68872|long=33.022459|label=[[Agios Georgiou (Limassol)|Agios Georgiou]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.674425|long=33.026825|label=[[Agios Ioannis (Limassol)|Agios Ioannis]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.68978|long=33.045597|label=[[Agios Nektarios (Limassol)|Agios Nektarios]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.693323|long=33.057739|label=[[Agios Nikolaos (Limassol)|Agios Nikolaos]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.672742|long=33.006307|label=[[Agios Spiridonas (Limassol)|Agios Spiridonas]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.694429|long=33.028193|label=[[Petrou Kai Pavlou (Limassol)|Petrou Kai Pavlou]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.68029|long=33.020394|label=[[Apostolos Andreas (Limassol)|Apostolos Andreas]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.67429|long=33.033957|label=[[Arnaoutogeitonia]]|marksize=5|position=top}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.655149|long=33.003734|label=[[Zakaki]]|marksize=5|position=top}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.679691|long=33.03625|label=[[Κatholiki (Limassol)|Κatholiki]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.698996|long=33.035938|label=[[Kapsalos]]|marksize=5|position=top}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.688907|long=33.063154|label=[[Neapolis (Limassol)|Neapolis]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.669453|long=33.018315|label=[[Omonoia, Limassol|Omonoia]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.713008|long=33.006175|label=[[Panayias Evaggelistrias (Limassol)|Panayias Evaggelistrias]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.672237|long=33.038123|label=[[Tzami Tzentit]]|marksize=5|position=right}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.662689|long=33.023046|label=[[Tsiflikoudia]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}

{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.70825191|long=33.04223173|label='''[[Mesa Geitonia|Mesa Geitonia Municipality]]'''|marksize=0|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.698066|long=33.042821|label=[[Kontovathkia]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.711577|long=33.041166|label=[[Panthea (Mesa Geitonia)|Panthea]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.70199|long=33.051004|label=[[Prodromos (Mesa Geitonia)|Prodromos]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}
{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.69743|long=33.054856|label=[[Halkoutsa]]|marksize=5|position=bottom}}

{{Location map~|Limassol municipalities with quarters |lat=34.691065|long=32.955132|label='''[[Ypsonas|Ypsonas Municipality]]'''|marksize=0|position=top}}|width=1150}}
|}

=== Climate ===
{{Update|part=section|date=September 2024}}
Limassol has a [[hot-summer Mediterranean climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification]]: ''Csa''), closely bordering a hot [[semi-arid climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification]]: ''BSh''),<ref>{{cite web
 |url=http://koeppen-geiger.vu-wien.ac.at/ 
 |title=World Map of Köppen−Geiger Climate Classification 
 |url-status=dead 
 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100906034159/http://koeppen-geiger.vu-wien.ac.at/ 
 |archive-date=2010-09-06 
}}</ref> with hot and dry summers and mild and wet winters, which are separated by short springs and autumns which are generally warm and sunny. From December to March, the weather is unsettled and can be rainy and windy. Sunshine averages around 6 hours a day. During this season there are a few days when the daytime highs might not exceed {{convert|12|°C|0|abbr=on}} and the night time lows might be as low as {{convert|2|°C|0|abbr=on}} but usually the temperature ranges from {{convert|16|°C|0|abbr=on}} to {{convert|20|°C|0|abbr=on}} in the day and from {{convert|7|°C|0|abbr=on}} to {{convert|12|°C|0|abbr=on}} in the night. Rain tends to be heavy this time of the year and thunderstorms occur often though they usually do not last for a long time.

Snow in Limassol is a very rare occurrence and usually falls mixed with rain every 7 to 13 years. Snow mixed with rain fell in February 2004, in January 2008 and in February 2012. In January 2022 Limassol registered a record low temperature of {{convert|-0.8|°C|0|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.dom.org.cy/CLIMATOLOGY/Greek/%CE%A0%CF%81%CF%8C%CF%83%CF%86%CE%B1%CF%84%CE%B1%20%CE%9C%CE%B5%CF%84%CE%B5%CF%89%CF%81%CE%BF%CE%BB%CE%BF%CE%B3%CE%B9%CE%BA%CE%AC%20%CE%94%CE%B5%CE%B4%CE%BF%CE%BC%CE%AD%CE%BD%CE%B1/2022/%CE%99%CE%B1%CE%BD%CE%BF%CF%85%CE%AC%CF%81%CE%B9%CE%BF%CF%82/MAX%20-%20MIN%20-%20RAIN_01_2022.pdf |title=Cyprus Department of Meteorology. |accessdate=12 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220612044757/https://www.dom.org.cy/CLIMATOLOGY/Greek/%CE%A0%CF%81%CF%8C%CF%83%CF%86%CE%B1%CF%84%CE%B1%20%CE%9C%CE%B5%CF%84%CE%B5%CF%89%CF%81%CE%BF%CE%BB%CE%BF%CE%B3%CE%B9%CE%BA%CE%AC%20%CE%94%CE%B5%CE%B4%CE%BF%CE%BC%CE%AD%CE%BD%CE%B1/2022/%CE%99%CE%B1%CE%BD%CE%BF%CF%85%CE%AC%CF%81%CE%B9%CE%BF%CF%82/MAX%20-%20MIN%20-%20RAIN_01_2022.pdf |archive-date=12 June 2022 |url-status=dead}}</ref> In spring the weather is mild to warm and pleasant. It is sunny almost every day and the temperatures are around {{convert|19|-|20|C|F}} in the day and {{convert|9|°C|0|abbr=on}} in the night. Rain showers and thunderstorms are common especially in late March and April. Sometimes during the spring dust comes from the [[Sahara]] desert which degrades air quality in the city. Summer for Limassol is the longest season of the year, and lasts about six months; it begins in May and ends in October. At this time of the year, the weather is sunny every day and rain is rare. The temperatures range between {{convert|19|°C|0|abbr=on}} to {{convert|30|°C|0|abbr=on}} in June and September and {{convert|22|°C|0|abbr=on}} to {{convert|40|°C|0|abbr=on}} in July and August. In June, sea mist can sometimes occur, usually resolving early in the morning.{{citation needed|date=August 2024}} Autumn is warm and usually sunny. It begins in the end of November and in December. During this period of the year, temperatures range from as low as {{convert|12|°C|0|abbr=on}} to as high as {{convert|20|°C|0|abbr=on}}.

This season the weather differs from year to year and it can be very wet with violent thunderstorms sometimes (October 2009 rainfall was around {{convert|90|mm|1|abbr=on}}) or very dry (October 2007 rainfall of {{convert|2|to|5|mm|in}}). Limassol receives around {{convert|410|mm|1|abbr=on}} of rain each year but this varies from year to year and sometimes droughts do occur (every 3–5 years).{{citation needed|date=August 2024}} The rainy season 2009–2010 was a wet one with precipitation being as high as {{convert|515|mm|1|abbr=on}} in some areas whilst the rainy season of 2007–2008 was dry with only {{convert|300|mm|1|abbr=on}} of rain.{{citation needed|date=August 2024}} Hail is rare and usually falls between October and April.{{citation needed|date=August 2024}}

{{Weather box
|width = auto
|location= Limassol (1991–2005)
|metric first= yes
|single line= yes
|Jan record high C = 23.3
|Feb record high C = 24.4
|Mar record high C = 29.0
|Apr record high C = 33.6
|May record high C = 38.6
|Jun record high C = 40.3
|Jul record high C = 38.8
|Aug record high C = 40.2
|Sep record high C = 39.3
|Oct record high C = 35.6
|Nov record high C = 32.5
|Dec record high C = 24.6
|year record high C = 40.3
|Jan high C= 17.6
|Feb high C= 17.8
|Mar high C= 20.0
|Apr high C= 22.9
|May high C= 26.9
|Jun high C= 30.8
|Jul high C= 33.2
|Aug high C= 33.3
|Sep high C= 31.3
|Oct high C= 28.6
|Nov high C= 23.5
|Dec high C= 18.9
|Jan mean C= 13.2
|Feb mean C= 13.5
|Mar mean C= 15.2
|Apr mean C= 18.0
|May mean C= 21.8
|Jun mean C= 25.5
|Jul mean C= 27.8
|Aug mean C= 28.0
|Sep mean C= 26.0
|Oct mean C= 23.2
|Nov mean C= 18.5
|Dec mean C= 14.5
|Jan low C= 8.8
|Feb low C= 8.5
|Mar low C= 10.4
|Apr low C= 13.1
|May low C= 16.7
|Jun low C= 20.1
|Jul low C= 22.4
|Aug low C= 22.7
|Sep low C= 20.6
|Oct low C= 17.7
|Nov low C= 13.5
|Dec low C= 10.1
|Jan record low C = -0.8
|Feb record low C = 1.0
|Mar record low C = 3.4
|Apr record low C = 5.0
|May record low C = 11.1
|Jun record low C = 13.9
|Jul record low C = 19.0
|Aug record low C = 18.9
|Sep record low C = 13.8
|Oct record low C = 8.8
|Nov record low C = 3.8
|Dec record low C = 0.5
|year record low C = -0.8
|Jan rain mm= 86.7
|Feb rain mm= 66.9
|Mar rain mm= 35.8
|Apr rain mm= 18.4
|May rain mm= 5.1
|Jun rain mm= 1.4
|Jul rain mm= 0.0
|Aug rain mm= 0.0
|Sep rain mm= 2.9
|Oct rain mm= 13.1
|Nov rain mm= 77.5
|Dec rain mm= 99.7
|rain colour = green
|Jan rain days= 9.3
|Feb rain days= 7.1
|Mar rain days= 5.6
|Apr rain days= 3.3
|May rain days= 1.1
|Jun rain days= 0.2
|Jul rain days= 0.0
|Aug rain days= 0.0
|Sep rain days= 0.3
|Oct rain days= 1.9
|Nov rain days= 5.5
|Dec rain days= 8.8
|unit rain days= 1 mm
|Jan sun = 195.3
|Feb sun = 211.7
|Mar sun = 244.9
|Apr sun = 270.0
|May sun = 344.1
|Jun sun = 381.0
|Jul sun = 390.6
|Aug sun = 365.8
|Sep sun = 315.0
|Oct sun = 285.2
|Nov sun = 225.0
|Dec sun = 186.0
|year sun = 3414.6
|Jan uv = 3
|Feb uv = 4
|Mar uv = 6
|Apr uv = 8
|May uv = 10
|Jun uv = 11
|Jul uv = 11
|Aug uv = 10
|Sep uv = 8
|Oct uv = 6
|Nov uv = 4
|Dec uv = 3
|source 1= Meteorological Service (Cyprus)<ref>{{cite web
|url=http://www.moa.gov.cy/moa/MS/MS.nsf/DMLclimet_reports_en/DMLclimet_reports_en?OpenDocument&Start=1&Count=1000&Expand=1
|title=Meteorological Service – Climatological and Meteorological Reports
|access-date=2009-09-15
|archive-date=2018-12-26
|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181226141221/http://www.moa.gov.cy/moa/MS/MS.nsf/DMLclimet_reports_en/DMLclimet_reports_en?OpenDocument&Start=1&Count=1000&Expand=1%20
|url-status=dead
}}</ref>
|date=September 2017}}

{|class="wikitable" style="margin:1em auto;"
|+Average sea temperature<ref>[http://www.seatemperature.org/europe/cyprus/limassol-january.htm Limassol average sea temperature] – seatemperature.org</ref>
|-
!'''Jan'''
!'''Feb'''
!'''Mar'''
!'''Apr'''
!'''May'''
!'''Jun'''
!'''Jul'''
!'''Aug'''
!'''Sep'''
!'''Oct'''
!'''Nov'''
!'''Dec'''
!'''Year'''
|-
| style="background:#ff6; color:black;"|<small>{{convert|17.8|°C|°F|1|abbr=on|disp=br()}}</small>
| style="background:#ff6; color:black;"|<small>{{convert|17.0|°C|°F|1|abbr=on|disp=br()}}</small>
| style="background:#ff6; color:black;"|<small>{{convert|17.3|°C|°F|1|abbr=on|disp=br()}}</small>
| style="background:#ff6; color:black;"|<small>{{convert|18.1|°C|°F|1|abbr=on|disp=br()}}</small>
| style="background:#fc6; color:black;"|<small>{{convert|20.8|°C|°F|1|abbr=on|disp=br()}}</small>
| style="background:#fc6; color:black;"|<small>{{convert|24.4|°C|°F|1|abbr=on|disp=br()}}</small>
| style="background:#fc6; color:black;"|<small>{{convert|27.2|°C|°F|1|abbr=on|disp=br()}}</small>
| style="background:#fc6; color:black;"|<small>{{convert|28.0|°C|°F|1|abbr=on|disp=br()}}</small>
| style="background:#fc6; color:black;"|<small>{{convert|27.2|°C|°F|1|abbr=on|disp=br()}}</small>
| style="background:#fc6; color:black;"|<small>{{convert|25.2|°C|°F|1|abbr=on|disp=br()}}</small>
| style="background:#fc6; color:black;"|<small>{{convert|22.1|°C|°F|1|abbr=on|disp=br()}}</small>
| style="background:#ff6; color:black;"|<small>{{convert|19.6|°C|°F|1|abbr=on|disp=br()}}</small>
| style="background:#fc6; color:black;"|<small>{{convert|22.0|°C|°F|1|abbr=on|disp=br()}}</small>
|}

== Demographics ==
{{See also|Armenian Cypriots|Russian Cypriots}}[[File:Agia Napa (Limassol) (1).jpg|thumb|Agia Napa Church|left]]Limassol is the 2nd most populous [[Districts of Cyprus|district]] in Cyprus, with 262,238 residents as of the 2021 Cyprus census, while the city itself has 198,558 residents. The [[Limassol District|district]] population’s citizenships in 2021 was 77.7% Cypriot, 8.6% [[European Union citizenship|EU citizen]], 13.1% Foreign citizen, with 0.6% not stating their nationality. Between 2011 and 2021, the district gained 26,827 residents.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-09 |title=Census of Population and Housing 2021: Final Results - gov.cy |url=https://www.gov.cy/en/economy-and-finance/census-of-population-and-housing-2021-final-results/ |access-date=2024-10-01 |website=www.gov.cy |language=en-US}}</ref>

Since the 1960s, internal migration and the influx of [[displaced person]]s after [[Turkish invasion of Cyprus|1974]] have significantly increased the population of Limassol and its suburbs.

Limassol is home to a large community of [[Pontic Greeks]], who settled in Cyprus after the [[Dissolution of the Soviet Union|collapse of the Soviet Union]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=admin |date=2024-06-07 |title=“Russian regiment” in Cyprus Goes to the Elections |url=https://cynews.is/russian-regiment-in-cyprus-goes-to-the-elections/ |access-date=2025-08-19 |website=Сyprus Daily News |language=ru-RU}}</ref><ref>Neocleous, G., Apostolou, M., & Spaneas, S. (2015). Misleading perceptions with ethnic minorities: the case of Pontiac Greeks in Cyprus. ''European Scientific Journal'', ''11''(8), 77-87.</ref>

The city has also become increasingly popular with Russian and other post-Soviet nationals and expatriates, earning the nickname “Limassolgrad".<ref>{{Cite news |last=Smith |first=Helena |date=2018-02-17 |title=Welcome to Limassolgrad: the city getting rich on Russian money |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/feb/17/welcome-to-limassolgrad-the-city-getting-rich-on-russian-money |access-date=2025-05-05 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> Today, about 17% of Limassol’s population is Russian-speaking, and 8% are Russian citizens.<ref>{{cite web |script-title=el:Στατιστική Υπηρεσία – Πληθυσμός και Κοινωνικές Συνθήκες – Απογραφή Πληθυσμού – Κυριότερα Στοιχεία |url=http://www.mof.gov.cy/mof/cystat/statistics.nsf/populationcondition_22main_gr/populationcondition_22main_gr?OpenForm&sub=2&sel=2 |access-date=2013-03-12 |publisher=Mof.gov.cy |language=el}}</ref>

=== Historical ===
[[File:Limassol 01-2017 img12 Sourp Kevork Armenian Church.jpg|thumb|[[Sourp Kevork Church, Limassol|Sourp Kevork Armenian Apostolic Church]]]]
Historically, Limassol had a mixed population of [[Greek Cypriots]], [[Turkish Cypriots]], and [[Armenian Cypriots]]. Most Turkish Cypriots moved to the north in 1974-1975. Consequently, many Greek Cypriots from the north, who became refugees following the [[Turkish invasion of Cyprus|Turkish invasion]], settled in the city. In the 1990s, several Cypriot [[Romani people]] (considered Turkish Cypriots according to the [[Constitution of Cyprus|constitution]]) returned from the north to the Turkish quarter of Limassol. Armenians remained in Limassol, residing around the [[Sourp Kevork Church, Limassol|Sourp Kevork Armenian Apostolic Church]] and maintain the [[Limassol Armenian school|Nareg Armenian School]] ({{Langx|hy|Նարեկ Հայկական Վարժարան}}). There is also an Armenian village in the Limassol district called [[Armenochori, Cyprus|Armenochori]] ({{langx|el|Αρμενοχώρι}}).

The population [[birth rate]] rose by 70% during the late 19th and 20th centuries (1878–1960). The number of inhabitants increased from 6,131 in 1881 to 43,593 in 1960. The Greek Cypriot population was estimated at 37,478, while the Turkish Cypriot population was at 6,115.<ref name=":1" />

== Education ==

{{Further|Laniteio (disambiguation){{!}}Laniteio|Education in Cyprus|Armenian education in Cyprus}}
[[File:Limassol EOKA Student Memorial 01.jpg|thumb|240x240px|Monument of Fighting Youth, a work dedicated to the student warriors of Cypriot Hellenism<ref>{{Cite web |title=ΙΣΤΟΡΙΚΟ ΣΧΟΛΕΙΟΥ |url=https://lyk-laniteio-lem.schools.ac.cy/lyk-laniteio-lem.schools.ac.cy/joomla/index.php/2017-07-23-16-31-49/2023-06-08-20-12-47 |access-date=2024-10-25 |website=lyk-laniteio-lem.schools.ac.cy |language=el}}</ref>]]
Limassol has a comprehensive educational infrastructure, encompassing [[primary education|primary]], [[secondary education|secondary]], and [[Tertiary education|tertiary]] education. There are over a hundred public educational institutions in the city, with instruction primarily in Greek. [[Laniteio Lyceum]], the oldest lyceum in the city and the largest on the island, was originally founded in 1819 as the "Greek School" and played a leading role in advancing education during periods of limited public provision.<ref name=":22">{{Cite web |title=Ελένη Δημητρίου: Ένα σχολείο, μία ταυτότητα, το νέο Λανίτειο Λύκειο |url=https://paideia-news.com/eleni-dimitrioy-ena-sxoleio,-mia-taytotita,-to-neo-laniteio-lykeio9065 |access-date=2024-10-29 |website=paideia-news.com |language=el}}</ref>

In recent years, Limassol has emerged as a significant education hub, particularly for [[Private school|private]] and [[International school|international]] secondary education. The city hosts sixteen private secondary schools,<ref>{{Cite web |title=PRIVATE SECONDARY SCHOOLS |url=https://sch.cy/mc/363/en_private_secondary_general.pdf}}</ref> offering instruction in English, Greek, Russian, Ukrainian, French, and other languages. Notable institutions include The Grammar School, Foley’s School, [[The Heritage Private School]], American Academy, Pascal International Education, The Island Private School, IMS Private School, Silverline, and Trinity Private School. These schools offer a variety of curricula, including the British curriculum ([[International General Certificate of Secondary Education|IGCSE]]/[[A-level|A-Levels]]), [[International Baccalaureate|International Baccalaureate (IB)]], [[Waldorf education]], [[Montessori education|Montessori]], and other international programs.<ref>{{Cite news |title=New Schools in Limassol {{!}} Cyprus Blog {{!}} DOM LiVE |url=https://dom.com.cy/en/live/blog/new-schools-in-limassol/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250705084817/https://dom.com.cy/en/live/blog/new-schools-in-limassol/ |archive-date=2025-07-05 |access-date=2025-07-05 |work=DOM |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=List of every International School in Limassol |url=https://www.international-schools-database.com/in/limassol |access-date=2025-07-05 |website=www.international-schools-database.com |language=en}}</ref>
[[File:Heritage Private School.jpg|thumb|[[The Heritage Private School]]|left]]
Several new campuses have been announced or are under development. Pascal International Education is expanding with two new campuses in Limassol, one of which will offer the [[International Baccalaureate|IB]] Diploma Programme starting in 2025.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2025-07-02 |title=PASCAL&#8217;s Limassol school authorised to offer IB DP from September 2025 |url=https://cyprus-mail.com/2025/07/02/pascals-limassol-authorised-to-offer-ib-dp-from-september-2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250705085445/https://cyprus-mail.com/2025/07/02/pascals-limassol-authorised-to-offer-ib-dp-from-september-2025 |archive-date=2025-07-05 |access-date=2025-07-05 |language=en}}</ref> The Island Private School, an IB Continuum school, is expanding to include a boarding facility.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2025-02-25 |title=IB vs A-Levels |url=https://cyprus-mail.com/2025/02/25/ib-vs-a-levels |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250705085704/https://cyprus-mail.com/2025/02/25/ib-vs-a-levels |archive-date=2025-07-05 |access-date=2025-07-05 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The Island Scholarship Program |url=https://isl.cy/boarding |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250327171354/https://isl.cy/boarding |archive-date=2025-03-27 |access-date=2025-07-05 |website=isl.cy}}</ref> In 2025, construction is expected to begin on a €50 million Jewish educational campus in the area of Polemidia, funded by the Yael Foundation and set to open in 2027 as a flagship international school for up to 1,500 students.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2025-05-13 |title=€50m Jewish education hub set to break ground in Limassol |url=https://cyprus-mail.com/2025/05/13/e50m-jewish-education-hub-set-to-break-ground-in-limassol |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250514033849/https://cyprus-mail.com/2025/05/13/e50m-jewish-education-hub-set-to-break-ground-in-limassol |archive-date=2025-05-14 |access-date=2025-07-05 |language=en}}</ref>

In addition to the various Greek and English speaking schools, the [[Limassol Armenian school|Nareg Armenian School]] also has a campus in the city, one of three on the island.<ref>{{Cite web |title=OTHER SCHOOLS. CYPRUS - LEFKOSIA |url=https://archeia.moec.gov.cy/mc/363/en_other_schools.pdf |access-date=24 June 2025 |website=www.archeia.moec.gov.cy}}</ref> Another notable example is Saint Mary's School, a [[Catholic school|Catholic institution]] founded in 1923 by the [[Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart|Franciscan Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart]], offering primary and secondary education to students of all religions. Its curriculum places strong emphasis on [[modern language]]s—including English, Greek, French, and Italian—while gradually integrating science and commercial subjects.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ltd |first=Crucial Services |title=Latin Catholics of Cyprus |url=http://www.latincatholicsofcyprus.com/cgibin/hweb?-A=10&-V=schools |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250114201531/http://www.latincatholicsofcyprus.com/cgibin/hweb?-A=10&-V=schools |archive-date=2025-01-14 |access-date=2025-07-05 |website=www.latincatholicsofcyprus.com}}</ref>

In terms of higher education, Limassol is the base of [[Cyprus University of Technology|Cyprus University of Technology (CUT)]], one of three [[State school|state]] [[University|universities]], established in 2004.<ref>{{Cite web |last=CYPRUS |first=UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY |title=Τεχνολογικό Πανεπιστήμιο Κύπρου - CYPRUS UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY |url=https://www.cut.ac.cy/studies/admissions/why-cut/cyprus-university-of-technology/?languageId=1 |access-date=2024-03-07 |website=www.cut.ac.cy |language=}}</ref> The city is also home to [[Frederick University]] and the University of Limassol, which are both [[Private university|private universities]]. Many institutions of [[tertiary education]] can be found in the city.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Private Institutes of Tertiary Education |url=https://www.highereducation.ac.cy/index.php/en/idrymata/idiotikes-scholes-tritovathmias-ekpaidefsis |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=www.highereducation.ac.cy}}</ref>

==Economy==
[[File:Columbia Plaza 1.jpg|thumb|Columbia Plaza in the Old City centre|267x267px]]
[[File:Fasouri Watermania Water Park Limassol.jpg|thumb|[[Fasouri Watermania]], Cyprus' biggest waterpark|200x200px|left]]
[[Tourism]] in Limassol began to flourish after 1974, following the occupation of [[Famagusta]] and [[Kyrenia]], the principal tourist resorts of Cyprus, during the [[Turkish invasion of Cyprus|1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus]]. Limassol has many beaches, suitable for sunbathing and swimming. A bathing beach with all the necessary facilities, provided by the [[Tourism in Cyprus#The Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO)|Cyprus Tourism Organisation]], operates in the Dasoudi area.

In 1974, the [[Port of Limassol]] became the Republic of Cyprus’s main [[port|seaport]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=History |url=https://www.hba.com.cy/en/page/history |access-date=2024-03-12 |website=Hull Blyth Araouzos |language=en}}</ref> Prior to that, the role had been filled by the port of [[Famagusta]], now located in the ''[[de facto]]'' state of [[Northern Cyprus]], which is not recognised as a legal port by any country except [[Turkey]].

Limassol is home to many of Cyprus’s [[wine]] companies, which cater to the wine-growing regions on the southern slopes of the [[Troodos Mountains]], including [[Commandaria]]. Notable companies such as [[KEO (beer)|KEO]], LOEL, SODAP, and ETKO produce award-winning wines and [[Brandy|brandies]] ([[cognac]]s) in international exhibitions.<ref>{{Cite web |last=wncy |date=2012-04-29 |title=Cyprus Wine Awards distinguishes it's wines with Gold |url=https://winecyprus-naturally.com/cyprus-wines/awards/cyprus-wine-awards-distinguishes-its-wines-with-gold/ |access-date=2024-03-12 |website=Wine Cyprus Naturally |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title="Gastronomos Quality Awards-Cyprus" for the year 2021 |url=https://vlassideswinery.com/2022/06/20/gastronomos-quality-awards-cyprus-for-the-year-2021/ |access-date=2024-03-12 |website=Vlassides Winery |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-03-12 |title=Cyprus wines shine bright at major World Wine Awards |url=https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/local/cyprus-wines-shine-bright-at-major-world-wine-awards/ |access-date=2024-03-12 |website=in-cyprus.philenews.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Awards |url=https://vlassideswinery.com/awards/ |access-date=2024-03-12 |website=Vlassides Winery |language=en-US}}</ref> These products are highly consumed by both locals and tourists, with significant quantities exported to Europe.

Limassol is the largest industrial centre in the district, hosting around 350 [[industrial park|industrial units]] with 90 industry wares.{{citation needed|date=August 2025}} These industries include dressmaking, furniture, footwear, beverages, food, printing, metalwork, electrical devices, plastics, and more.{{citation needed|date=August 2025}}

Limassol is a key trade centre in Cyprus, partially due to the presence of the [[Akrotiri and Dhekelia|UK sovereign base]] at [[Episkopi, Limassol|Episkopi]] and [[Akrotiri and Dhekelia|Akrotiri]], and the population displacement following the Turkish invasion in 1974. The main trade markets are located in the town centre and the coastal tourist area, stretching from the Old Port to the Amathus area. This area is home to most of the [[hotel]]s, [[restaurant]]s, [[Confectionery|confectioneries]], [[Nightclub|discos]], and entertainment venues. Major global retail shops can be found on [[Anexartisias Street]] and [[Makariou Avenue, Limassol|Makariou Avenue]], the city’s primary shopping streets,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Anexartisias: The main shopping street of the city |url=https://www.limassolchamber.eu/En/31/articles/349/2017/03/10/Anexartisias--The-main-shopping-street-of-the-city |access-date=2024-03-09 |website=www.limassolchamber.eu |language=en}}</ref> as well as at [[My Mall Limassol|MYMALL]], the largest mall in the district.

Limassol has two ports, commonly known as the [[Port of Limassol#Limassol Old Port-Limassol Marina|Old Port]] (Limassol Marina) and the [[Port of Limassol|New Port]] (Port of Limassol). The New Port handles the majority of commercial and passenger traffic and is one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean transit trade and is the largest port in the Republic of Cyprus.<ref name=":0" /> With a depth of {{convert|11|m|ft|abbr=off}} and breakwaters extending {{convert|1,300|m|ft|abbr=off}}, can receive about ten ships, depending on their size. The Old Port, with a {{convert|250|m|ft|abbr=off}} breakwater, can accommodate only three small ships at a time and is primarily used by fishing boats. These ports facilitate the export of grapes, wines, carobs, and [[citrus|citrus fruits]], as well as the import of [[cereal]]s, [[vehicle]]s, machinery, textiles, agricultural medicines, [[fertilizer|fertiliser]]s, and iron.[[File:Limassol Marina 03.jpg|thumb|Yachts at the [[Port of Limassol#Limassol Old Port-Limassol Marina|Limassol Marina]]|left|200x200px]]The [[Port of Limassol#Limassol Old Port-Limassol Marina|Limassol Marina]], built in 2014, is located {{convert|500|m|ft|abbr=off}} west of the Limassol Castle, on the Old Port. This new development allows berthing of ocean-going yachts, having hosted its first yachts in 2013.<ref>{{cite web|title=Limassol Marina open to the public|url=http://cyprus-mail.com/2014/06/10/limassol-marina-open-to-the-public/|newspaper=Cyprus Mail|access-date=8 May 2016|archive-date=25 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221225140352/https://cyprus-mail.com/2014/06/10/limassol-marina-open-to-the-public/|url-status=dead}}</ref> The marina has a capacity of 1,000 vessels.

Since 2014,<ref>{{Cite web |last=admin |date=2024-01-19 |title=Construction boom driven by demand for apartments {{!}} Cyprus News |url=https://estateofcyprus.com/construction-boom-driven-by-demand-for-apartments/ |access-date=2024-03-12 |website=Estate of Cyprus |language=ru}}</ref> Limassol has experienced a construction boom driven by the tourism sector and increasing foreign investments. Public projects, such as the redesign of the {{convert|1|km|mi|spell=in|adj=mid|abbr=off}} [[Limassol Molos]] promenade, have enhanced the quality of life and the city’s image as a cosmopolitan destination. Infrastructure improvements, partly funded by European programs, have addressed traffic issues with new highway flyovers and roundabouts.

{{Multiple image
| direction         = vertical
| image1            = View From Pier 2.JPG
| caption1          = Columbia Pier at Akti Olympion, 2012
| image2            = Skyscrapers in Limassol.jpg
| caption2          = The same location in 2024
| perrow            = 2
}}

Limassol has become a major centre for [[tourism]], [[trade]], and services. The city offers numerous [[museum]]s and [[archaeological site]]s for visitors. It attracts a diverse range of tourists, especially during the extended summer season, accommodated within a wide variety of hotels and apartments available.

The Limassol coastline, known as “The Limassol Riviera”, is undergoing a significant construction boom that began in late 2013 with new legislation encouraging development; becoming Europe's newest riviera.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-01-08 |title=Cyprus' Limassol ascends as Europe's new riviera |url=https://gulfnews.com/business/cyprus-limassol-ascends-as-europes-new-riviera-1.1704711187727 |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=gulfnews.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=office |first=blumarine |date=2022-05-03 |title=Limassol is shaping up to become Europe's new Riviera |url=https://limassolblumarine.com/news/limassol-is-shaping-up-to-become-europes-new-riviera-3/ |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=Limassol Blu Marine |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Zawya: Cyprus' Limassol ascends as Europe's new riviera, offering GCC investors among the highest returns in Europe {{!}} Leptos Estates |url=https://www.leptosestates.com/press-coverage/zawya-cyprus-limassol-ascends-as-europes-new-riviera-offering-gcc-investors-among-the-highest-returns-in-europe/ |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=www.leptosestates.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Since then, hundreds of new housing units and mushrooming businesses are introduced to the community annually.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-07-25 |title=Limassol Upcoming Skyline Fears {{!}} Cyprus Property Valuers |work=Cyprus Property Valuers |url=https://imvaluers.com/limassol-upcoming-skyline-fears/ |access-date=2023-04-23 |language=en-US |archive-date=2022-12-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221225150906/https://imvaluers.com/limassol-upcoming-skyline-fears/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> {{As of|2024|alt=Currently}}, over 70 buildings taller than 50m are proposed or under construction, including 32 [[skyscraper]]s. Among these is “[[One Limassol|ONE]]", Cyprus’s [[List of tallest buildings in Cyprus|tallest tower]] and Europe’s tallest seafront residential building.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pafilia launches ONE, the tallest residential seafront tower in Europe. |url=https://www.blueorangeservices.com/news/one-residential-tower |access-date=2024-03-07 |website=www.blueorangeservices.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=ONE - The Skyscraper Center |url=https://www.skyscrapercenter.com/building/one/27905 |access-date=2024-03-07 |website=www.skyscrapercenter.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Europe's Tallest Seafront Tower in Limassol Riviera |url=https://www.astons.com/property/cyprus/europes-tallest-seafront-tower-in-limassol-riviera/ |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=Astons |language=en-GB}}</ref> Another notable project is the “[[City of Dreams Mediterranean|City of Dreams Mediterranean (CoDM)]]”, the first and largest [[Casino hotel|integrated resort]] in Europe.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Europe's first multi-themed resort opens in Limassol |url=https://knews.kathimerini.com.cy/en/news/europe-s-first-multi-themed-resort-opens-in-limassol |access-date=2024-03-12 |website=knews.com.cy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=City of Dreams Mediterranean officially opens |url=https://agbrief.com/news/europe/12/07/2023/city-of-dreams-mediterranean-officially-opens/ |access-date=2024-03-12 |website=AGB Asia Gaming Brief|date=12 July 2023 }}</ref> In 2023, CoDM received the [[Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards|Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Award]] for “Best New Luxury Casino Resort in the World".<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-03-07 |title=City of Dreams Mediterranean named 'Best New Luxury Casino Resort' |url=https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/insider/city-of-dreams-mediterranean-named-best-new-luxury-casino-resort/ |access-date=2024-03-07 |website=in-cyprus.philenews.com |language=en-US}}</ref>

{{wide image|Night panorama of tourist area of Limassol, Cyprus.jpg|1000px|Tourist area of Limassol with Hotels and Resorts|100%|dir=ltr}}

== Landmarks ==

=== Archaeological sites ===

==== Amathus ====
[[File:Amathus.jpg|thumb|Ancient city of [[Amathus]]|left]]
[[Amathus]] is an ancient city-kingdom, located about {{Convert|11|km|mi}} east of Limassol, dating back to 1100 BC, with a rich history with various influences by various civilisations. The most notable ruin is considered to be the Temple of [[Aphrodite]], a major centre of worship and a sacred place for ceremonies and offerings, sitting atop the Acropolis of Amathus. Many tombs dating to the [[Iron Age]] can be found, as well as remnants of public baths and other buildings in the ancient [[Agora]]. One of the most remarkable finds from Amathus is a large [[limestone]] [[amphora]], now housed in the [[Louvre|Louvre Museum]] in [[Paris]]. This vase dates back to the 6th century BC and weighs {{Convert|14|tonne|kg}}.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2017-03-15 |title=Amathus Archaeological Site |url=https://www.cyprusisland.net/attractions/amathus-archaeological-site |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=Cyprus Island |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Christos |date=2015-11-04 |title=Amathous Archaeological Site |url=https://www.visitcyprus.com/discover-cyprus/culture/sites-and-monuments/amathous-archaeological-site/ |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=Visit Cyprus |language=en-US}}</ref>

==== Kourion ====
[[File:Episkopi 01-2017 img06 Kourion.jpg|thumb|[[Kourion]] [[agora]]]]
[[Kourion]] is another ancient city-kingdom, situated {{Approx.}} {{Convert|19|km|mi}} west of Limassol, with a rich history dating back to the [[Neolithic|Neolithic period]], with significant developments during the [[Hellenistic period|Hellenistic]], [[Roman Cyprus|Roman]], and Early Christian periods. The centerpiece of Kourion is the [[Kourion#Theatre|Greco-Roman theatre]], originally built in the 2nd century BC and expanded in the 2nd century AD. It has been restored and is still used for open-air performances, overlooking the [[Mediterranean Sea]]. The [[Kourion#Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates|Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates]] was dedicated to [[Hylates|Apollo Hylates]], the god of the woodland. It includes the remains of a [[temple]], a bath complex, and a [[palaestra]] (wrestling school).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Christos |date=2015-11-04 |title=Kourion Archaeological Site |url=https://www.visitcyprus.com/discover-cyprus/culture/sites-and-monuments/kourion-archaeological-site/ |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=Visit Cyprus |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Move |first=Brit on the |date=2023-12-09 |title=Ancient Kourion: Cyprus' House of Eustolios |url=https://britonthemove.com/ancient-kourion-cyprus/ |access-date=2024-10-03 |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Museums ===
[[File:Limassol 01-2017 img21 Castle exterior.jpg|thumb|[[Limassol Castle]]|left]]The [[Middle Ages|medieval]] [[Limassol Castle]] is one of the [[List of castles in Cyprus|ten castles of Cyprus]], constructed by the [[Byzantine Empire|Byzantines]] around 1000 AD. A chapel was also built on the site during the same period. It is believed that [[Richard I of England|Richard the Lionheart]] married his fiancée, Princess  [[Berengaria of Navarre]], at this location in 1191 after her ship was grounded nearby while she was accompanying him to the [[Third Crusade]]. The castle served as a prison from 1790 to 1940 and now functions as a medieval museum. The museum’s collection spans from 400 to 1870 AD, showcasing a variety of exhibits including [[cannon]]s, 17th and 18th-century [[wood carving]]s, paintings, [[Gravestone|tombstones]], statues, suits of armor, coins, [[terracotta]], metalware, pottery, glass, and [[marble]] artifacts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-06-28 |title=Medieval Museum of Cyprus (Limassol Castle) |url=https://www.cyprusisland.net/cyprus-museums-galleries/medieval-museum-cyprus-limassol-castle |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=Cyprus Island |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Limassol Castle |url=https://www.cyprusalive.com/en/location/limassol-castle |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=Cyprus Alive}}</ref>

The [[Kolossi Castle]], located about {{Convert|11|km|mi}} west of Limassol, is a [[Middle Ages|medieval]] [[Fortification|fortress]] originally built in the 13th century by the [[Knights Hospitaller|Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem]], also known as the Knights Hospitaller. The current structure, rebuilt in 1454, features a well-preserved three-story keep and an attached rectangular [[enclosure]]. The castle played a significant role in the production of sugar from local [[sugarcane]] and is also associated with the famous [[Commandaria]] wine.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Why This Castle Held Such a Strategic Position During the Crusades |url=https://www.historyhit.com/locations/kolossi-castle/ |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=History Hit |language=en-GB}}</ref>[[File:Folk museum Limassol.jpg|thumb|Folk Art Museum|right]]The [[Folk art|Folk Art]] Museum is located in a preserved historic house and features a collection of Cypriot folk art from the past two centuries. The collection includes national costumes, tapestries, embroidery, wooden chests, waistcoats, men’s jackets, necklaces, various light garments, town costumes, and rural tools. Established in 1985, the museum houses over 500 exhibits across six rooms. It was awarded the [[Europa Nostra]] prize in 1989. Visitors can explore Cypriot culture through these handmade exhibits.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Municipal Museum of Folk Art |url=https://www.limassol.org.cy/en/museum-laikis-texnis |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=www.limassol.org.cy |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Folk Art Museum |url=https://www.limassoltourism.com/en/things-to-do/local-experience/arts-culture/museums/1-municipal-folk-art-museum |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=Limassol Tourism Development & Promotion Company}}</ref>

The Archaeological Museum offers a fascinating collection of antiquities discovered in the district, spanning from the [[Neolithic|Neolithic Age]] to the [[Roman Empire|Roman period]]. Among the notable artifacts are stone axes from the Neolithic and [[Chalcolithic]] periods, pottery and objects from the ancient cities of [[Kourion]] and [[Amathus]], as well as Roman [[terracotta]]s, gold jewelry, coins, sculptures, [[column]]s, vases, earrings, rings, necklaces, and marble statues. The museum was originally located within the Limassol Castle before being relocated to a site near the Public Gardens.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Limassol District Archaeological Museum |url=https://www.limassoltourism.com/en/things-to-do/local-experience/arts-culture/museums/limassol-district-archaeological-museum |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=Limassol Tourism Development & Promotion Company}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Department of Antiquities - Museums |url=http://www.culture.gov.cy/dmculture/da/da.nsf/All/F326C998358D550BC225719900203AEA?OpenDocument |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=www.culture.gov.cy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-03-15 |title=Limassol Archaeological Museum |url=https://www.cyprusisland.net/cyprus-museums-galleries/limassol-archaeological-museum |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=Cyprus Island |language=en}}</ref>

Since 2024 the non-profit [[PSI Foundation]] established in an old carob warehouse located in the [[Tsiflikoudia|industrial area of Limassol]] hosts exhibitions of modern and contemporary art as well as history of Cyprus. First exhibition dedicated to 50th anniversary of the [[Turkish invasion of Cyprus|invasion]], “Casts of an Island 2024”, was proclaimed “Cultural Event of the Year” by Thoukis awards.<ref>{{Cite web |title=PSI FOUNDATION |url=https://psi.art/ |access-date=2025-01-08 |website=psifoundation}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Thoukis awards of the Year 2024: Ο υπουργός της χρονιάς, η Μητέρα Τερέζα και οι προσωπικότητες |url=https://politis.com.cy/884636/article |access-date=2025-01-08 |website=ΠΟΛΙΤΗΣ |archive-date=2025-01-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250109203621/https://politis.com.cy/884636/article |url-status=dead }}</ref>

=== Parks ===
[[File:Limassol 01-2017 img03 Pattichion Municipal Museum.jpg|right|thumb|Patticheio Municipal Museum]]
The [[Limassol Public Gardens]], located along the coastal road, boasts a diverse array of vegetation, including eucalyptus trees, [[Pine|pine trees]], and cypresses. Within the garden, visitors can explore the [[Limassol Zoo]] that houses [[deer]], [[Mouflon|moufflons]], [[ostrich]]es, [[pheasant]]s, [[tiger]]s, [[lion]]s, [[monkey]]s, [[vulture]]s, [[pelican]]s, [[flamingo]]s and various other animals and birds.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Limassol zoo /Limassol/ |url=https://zooinstitutes.com/zooinstitutes/limassol-zoo-26.html?id_type=2 |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=Zoo Institutes}}</ref> The Patticheio Municipal Museum and an open theatre, which has been renovated to host international performances, can also be found within the gardens.

The [[Limassol Molos]], a multifunctional seaside park from [[land reclamation|reclaimed land]] that spans {{convert|1|km|mi|spell=in|adj=mid|abbr=off}}, is one of the city's largest hotspots, as well as one of the largest parks on the island. [[Fishing]], [[kayaking]] and many other [[watersports]] can be done off the piers of the park.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sea side Multi-fuctional Park |url=https://www.limassol.org.cy/en/polylitourgiko-parathalasio-parko |access-date=2024-03-07 |website=www.limassol.org.cy |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=allaboutlimassol.com |title=Limassol Molos |url=https://allaboutlimassol.com/en/limassol-molos |access-date=2024-03-07 |website=allaboutlimassol.com |language=en}}</ref> The Limassol Sculpture Park, commissioned by the Limassol Municipality, can be found at Molos.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Limassol Sculpture Park |url=https://www.limassol.org.cy/en/parko-gliptikis |access-date=2024-03-07 |website=www.limassol.org.cy |language=en}}</ref> The sculptures were created by Costas Dikefalos, [[Thodoros Papayiannis]], [[Vassilis Vassili]] and Kyriakos Rokos from Greece, Helene Black from Cyprus, and more.<ref>{{Cite web |last=CyprusNet |title=Limassol Sculpture Park |url=https://www.cyprus-hotel.com/article/limassol-sculpture-park.html |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=Cyprus Hotels |language=en}}</ref>

== Culture ==

=== Festivals ===
[[File:Reflect Festival 2023, Molos Exhibition.png|right|thumb|Reflect Festival 2023 stands at [[Limassol Molos]]]]
[[File:Carnival in Limassol 2014 (12887507525).jpg|thumb|Costumes in the 2014 [[Limassol Carnival Festival|Limassol Carnival]]]]
Limassol is renowned in Cyprus for its vibrant festivals, most notably the [[Limassol Carnival Festival|Carnival]] and [[Wine Festival of Cyprus|Wine Festival]]. The Limassol Carnival, a ten-day event filled with joyful and amusing masquerades, has ancient roots tracing back to [[Paganism|pagan]] rituals. Over time, it has evolved into a purely entertaining spectacle with widespread popularity. The festivities kick off with the entrance parade of the King (or Queen) Carnival, followed by a children’s [[Costume party|fancy-dress]] competition. The Grand Carnival parade on [[Makariou Avenue, Limassol|Makariou Avenue]] attracts large crowds from across the island, who come to watch the floats, [[serenade]]s, and various masqueraded groups. Each night, numerous hotels host fancy-dress balls and parties.'''''<ref name="CyprusEvents">{{cite web |last=CyprusEvents.net |year=2011 |title=Limassol events |url=http://www.cyprusevents.net/annual/limassol-events |access-date=5 July 2011 |work=cyprusevents.net}}</ref>'''''

In early October, the grand [[Wine Festival of Cyprus]] takes place in the [[Limassol Public Gardens]], running every evening from 08:00 to 23:00. During this festival, visitors can sample some of the finest Cypriot wines free of charge. The event also features [[Folk dance|folk dancing]] performances by groups from Cyprus and abroad, as well as choir performances and other entertainment.'''''<ref name="CyprusEvents" />'''''

Other notable festivals in Limassol include the [https://www.limassoltourism.com/en/things-to-do/activities/festival-events/street-life-festival Limassol Street Life Festival] and the [https://www.limassol.org.cy/en/Anthestiria Flower Festival (Anthestiria)] in May, the [https://www.limassol.org.cy/en/Kataklismos#:~:text=Kataklysmos%20%28Flood%20Festival%29%20Kataklysmos%20is%20a%20water-based%20festival,in%20honour%20of%20the%20goddess%20Aphrodite%20and%20Adonis. Flood Festival (Kataklysmos)] and [https://www.limassoltourism.com/en/things-to-do/activities/festival-events/shakespeare-festival Shakespeare Festival] in June, and the [[International Festival of Ancient Greek Drama, Cyprus|Festival of Ancient Greek Drama]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Limassol's Must-See Events and Festivals - Limassol Tourism Board |url=https://www.limassoltourism.com/en/things-to-do/activities/festival-events/ |access-date=2024-09-22 |website=www.limassoltourism.com}}</ref>

Additionally, Limassol introduced its first [[Beer festival|Beer Festival]] in July 2003. This three-day seaside dance festival in the city center offers a variety of Cypriot and imported beers. The festival is free to enter, with beers sold at low prices and a mix of international music providing the soundtrack.'''''<ref>{{cite web |title=Limassol Festivals – Limassol Annual Events. |url=http://www.Limassol.com/v/festivals/ |work=limassol.com}}</ref>'''''

Limassol also hosted the sixth [[Junior Eurovision Song Contest]] at the [[Spyros Kyprianou Athletic Center|Spyros Kyprianou Athletic Centre]].'''''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Junior Eurovision 2008 |url=https://eurovisionworld.com/junior-eurovision/2008 |access-date=2024-03-12 |website=Eurovisionworld |language=en-gb}}</ref>'''''

=== Sports ===
[[File:Queue of participants at the starting line of the Limassol Marathon 2024.jpg|thumb|Queue of participants at the starting line of the 2024 [[Limassol Marathon]] at [[Limassol Molos]] |left]]The [[Alphamega Stadium]], also known as the Limassol Stadium, is the second largest football only stadium on the island. With a capacity of 11.000, it is the home base of the city’s three major football clubs in the city, [[AEL Limassol|AEL FC]], [[Apollon Limassol FC|Apollon FC]] and [[Aris Limassol FC|Aris FC]]. The two former ones are the largest sport clubs in Limassol, which have [[Association football|football]], [[basketball]], and [[volleyball]] teams, as well as other sports. In football, all three teams play in the [[Cypriot First Division|First Division]]. [[AEL Limassol|AEL FC]] and [[Aris Limassol FC|Aris FC]] were two of the eight founding members of the [[Cyprus Football Association|Cyprus Football Association (CFA)]]. There are also many other teams in [[sport of athletics|athletics]], [[bowling]], [[cycle sport|cycling]], and other sports.

The [[Tsirio Stadium]] with a capacity of 13.331, was the home base of the three aforementioned football teams of Limassol as well as the [[Cyprus national football team]] in the past. It is also used for athletics. Other than the two previously mentioned stadiums, many others also exist in the city.

The Apollon Limassol Basketball Stadium, hosted the 2003 [[International Basketball Federation|FIBA]] Europe South Regional Challenge Cup Final Four. The [[Apollon Limassol B.C.|Apollon BC]] and the [[AEL Limassol B.C.|AEL BC]] competed, with the latter becoming the first Cypriot sport team to win a European Trophy. In 2006, Limassol hosted the [[FIBA Europe]] [[All-star game|All Star Game]] in [[Spyros Kyprianou Athletic Center|Spyros Kiprianou Sports Centre]], as it had the year before. [[Cyprus Rally|The Cyprus Rally]] which was hosted for the [[World Rally Championship]] and the [[Intercontinental Rally Challenge]] were both hosted in the Limassol district. In 2025, Limassol will host the [[EuroBasket 2025|EuroBasket]].

The [[Limassol Marathon]] is part of an annual race series which takes place in Limassol. It was first run in 2006 and is still organised to this day. 2024 was a key year for the marathon since the participation record was broken with over 17.000 runners from more than 70 countries around the world participating.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |date=2024-06-24 |title=More than 17,000 participants at Limassol marathon |url=https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/local/more-than-17000-participants-at-limassol-marathon/ |access-date=2024-06-24 |website=in-cyprus.philenews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> There are various races including a marathon, a half marathon, a {{convert|10|km|adj=on|abbr=off}} Energy Race, a {{convert|5|km|adj=on|abbr=off}} Corporate Race and a {{convert|1|km|adj=on|abbr=off}} Youth Race.

Limassol also has an independent civilian [[rugby union]] team, the [[Limassol Crusaders]], who play at the AEK Achileas Stadium and participate in the Joint Services Rugby League. There is a professional [[handball]] team, [[APEN Agiou Athanasiou]].

Rowing and canoeing are rapidly becoming very popular in Limassol,{{citation needed|date=March 2019}} due to the three nautical clubs in the city of Limassol. The [[Germasogeia|Germasoyia]] dam is the place for both practising and competitions.

==Transport==
Limassol is one of the island's main transportation hubs. The city is home to the largest port on the island, which handles almost exclusively all passenger traffic inbound and outbound the island.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2.1.1 Cyprus Port of Limassol {{!}} Digital Logistics Capacity Assessments |url=https://dlca.logcluster.org/211-cyprus-port-limassol#:~:text=Limassol%20Port,%20also%20known%20as,,%20Israel,%20Egypt%20and%20Lebanon. |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=dlca.logcluster.org}}</ref>

=== Bus transport ===
EMEL (Limassol Passenger Transport Company) ({{Langx|el|Εταιρεία Μεταφοράς Επιβάτων Λεμεσού, ΕΜΕΛ}}), is the main operator of buses in Limassol. {{As of|2024}}, its network consists of around 53 bus lines, spanning the Limassol district, making up a fleet of approximately 150 buses, 35 of which are electric.<ref>{{Cite web |title=New buses for Limassol |url=https://www.limassolchamber.eu/En/97/articles/1644/2023/01/13/New-buses-for-Limassol |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=www.limassolchamber.eu |language=en}}</ref> National and regional bus links are provided by InterCity Buses from the Limassol Port passenger building.

=== Ferry ===
[[File:Cranes Limassol Harbour 20110703.jpg|thumb|Cranes at the [[Port of Limassol]], 2011]]The [[Port of Limassol]] is the largest port in Cyprus. Commercial and passenger cruises make frequent stops at the port.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-28 |title=Cruise line unveils state-of-the-art ship at Limassol Port {{!}} Cyprus Mail |url=https://cyprus-mail.com/2023/10/28/cruise-line-unveils-state-of-the-art-ship-at-limassol-port/ |access-date=2023-11-03 |language=en-GB}}</ref>

=== Motorways ===
[[File:A1 Motorway Cyprus.JPG|thumb|[[A1 motorway (Cyprus)|A1 motorway]] in Limassol|left]]
{{Further|Roads and motorways in Cyprus}}
The city is a highway hub, crossing the following motorways:

* [[A1 motorway (Cyprus)|A1 motorway]] to the north, to Nicosia
* [[A5 motorway (Cyprus)|A5 motorway]] to the east, to Larnaca and Famagusta
* [[A6 motorway (Cyprus)|A6 motorway]] to the west, to Paphos
* [[A8 motorway (Cyprus)|A8 motorway]] to the north, to Saittas village (under construction {{As of|2024|lc=y}})

=== Airports ===
While Limassol is not home to any airports, the city is close to two international airports; [[Larnaca International Airport]] (situated {{Approx.}} {{convert|60|km|abbr=on}} north-east from the city) and [[Paphos International Airport]] ({{Approx.}} {{convert|50|km|abbr=on}} north-west). Bus links connect both airports with the city, served by Limassol Airport Express from Chavouzas station.

== Government and politics ==

=== Politics ===
[[File:Angela Merkel (9307209906).jpg|thumb|[[Angela Merkel]] and [[Nicos Anastasiades]] attending the EPP summit in Limassol in 2013]]
The first [[Marxism|Marxist]] groups in Cyprus formed in Limassol in the early 1920s; in 1926, the [[Communist party]] of Cyprus was formed in the city. Its successor, [[Progressive Party of Working People|Progressive Party of Working People (AKEL)]], has dominated municipal elections since the first free elections in 1943, won by [[Ploutis Servas]].

The [[European People's Party]] held an extraordinary party summit in Limassol in 2013. The list of participants in the summit included [[European Council]] members, government representatives, [[European Commission]] representatives, opposition members and leaders, and [[European Parliament]] representatives. The summit's agenda included topics such as the EU's multi-annual financial framework for the period 2014–2020 and the preparation for the [[2014 European Parliament election|2014 European elections]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.novinite.com/articles/146752/Bulgaria%20PM%20to%20Participate%20in%20European%20People's%20Party%20Summit%20in%20Limassol|title=Bulgaria PM to Participate in European People's Party Summit in Limassol – Novinite.com – Sofia News Agency|work=novinite.com}}</ref>
Notably, [[Andreas Christou]], an [[Progressive Party of Working People|AKEL]] member, was re-elected mayor of Limassol in December 2011 to serve his second five-year term.

=== Local Government Reform ===

Following [[Local government reform (Cyprus)|local government reform in 2024]] there were a number of administrative changes.

The table below lists the new municipalities and the previous authorities from which they are composed, which now become municipal districts with deputy mayors. 
<ref name=New_Municipalities>"20 New Municipalities"  (in Greek) on Ministry of the Interior website  -  www.gov.cy/moi/20-neoi-dimoi/ - retrieved Aug 2025</ref>
<ref name=Philenews_March2022>"These are the 20 new Municipalities - The reform was voted on", Phileleftheros newspaper, Nicosia, 03 March 2022  -  https://web.archive.org/web/20220303172313/https://www.philenews.com/oikonomia/kypros/article/1414066/aftoi-einai-oi-20-neoi-dimoi-psifistike-i-metarrythmisi - retrieved July 2025</ref>

{{Table alignment}}
{| class="wikitable sortable col4right col6right defaultleft"
! District !! New Municipality !! Municipal District !! Pop 2021 !! Pre !! No.Cllrs(*)
|- style="background: lightgrey; color: black; font-weight: bold"
| Limassol || EAST LIMASSOL || TOTAL || 42,936 ||  || 24
|-
| Limassol || East Limassol || Akrounta || 521 || C || 1
|-
| Limassol || East Limassol || Armenochori || 211 || C || 1
|-
| Limassol || East Limassol || Ayios Athanasios || 16,563 || M || 8
|-
| Limassol || East Limassol || Ayios Tychon || 4,413 || C || 2
|-
| Limassol || East Limassol || Foinikaria || 460 || C || 1
|-
| Limassol || East Limassol || Mathikoloni || 200 || C || 1
|-
| Limassol || East Limassol || Mouttayiaka || 3,243 || C || 3
|-
| Limassol || East Limassol || Yermasoyeia || 17,325 || M || 7
|- style="background: lightgrey; color: black; font-weight: bold"
| Limassol || LIMASSOL || TOTAL || 124,106 ||  || 30
|-
| Limassol || Limassol || Limassol || 108,105 || M || 24
|-
| Limassol || Limassol || Mesa Yeitonia || 15,949 || M || 5
|-
| Limassol || Limassol || Tserkezoi || 52 || C || 1
|- style="background: lightgrey; color: black; font-weight: bold"
| Limassol || POLEMIDIA || TOTAL || 26,650 ||  || 20
|-
| Limassol || Polemidia || Kato Polemidia || 23,231 || M || 16
|-
| Limassol || Polemidia || Pano Polemidia || 3,419 || C || 4
|- style="background: lightgrey; color: black; font-weight: bold"
| Limassol || WEST LIMASSOL || TOTAL || 34,752 ||  || 20
|-
| Limassol || West Limassol || Akrotiri || 933 || C || 1
|-
| Limassol || West Limassol || Asomatos || 893 || C || 1
|-
| Limassol || West Limassol || Episkopi || 4,111 || C || 3
|-
| Limassol || West Limassol || Erimi || 3,156 || C || 2
|-
| Limassol || West Limassol || Kantou || 412 || C || 1
|-
| Limassol || West Limassol || Kolossi || 6,478 || C || 3
|-
| Limassol || West Limassol || Sotira || 234 || C || 1
|-
| Limassol || West Limassol || Trachoni || 4,569 || C || 3
|-
| Limassol || West Limassol || Ypsonas || 13,966 || M || 5
|- style="background: lightgrey; color: black; font-weight: bold"
|}
<small>Note: Column "Pre" indicates previous status: M (municipality), C (community) or S (settlement) </small>

== International relations ==
=== Twin towns – sister cities ===
Limassol is [[Sister city|twinned]] with:<ref name="Limassol twinnings">{{cite web|url=http://www.limassolmunicipal.com.cy/twin.html |title=Limassol Twinned Cities |access-date=2014-08-11 |work=Limassol (Lemesos) Municipality |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130401221134/http://www.limassolmunicipal.com.cy/twin.html |archive-date=2013-04-01 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Twinned Cities |url=https://www.limassol.org.cy/en/didimopoiimenes-poleis |access-date=2024-09-22 |website=www.limassol.org.cy |language=en}}</ref>{{Div col}}
*{{flagicon|GRE}} [[Rhodes]], Greece (since 1970)
*{{flagicon|EGY}} [[Alexandria]], Egypt (since 1972)
*{{flagicon|GRE}} [[Thessaloniki]], Greece (since 1984)
*{{flagicon|GRE}} [[Ioannina]], Greece (since 1984)
*{{flagicon|GRE}} [[Heraklion]], Greece (since 1989)
*{{flagicon|GER}} [[Niederkassel]], Germany (since 1989)
*{{flagicon|FRA}} [[Marseille]], France (since 1992)
*{{flagicon|CHN}} [[Nanjing]], China (since 1992)
*{{Flagicon|GRE}} [[Zakynthos]], Greece (since 1998)
* {{Flagicon|ISR}} [[Haifa]], Israel (since 2000)
*{{Flagicon|GRE}} [[Patras]], Greece (since 2001)
{{div col end}}

=== Consulates and consulates general ===
{{As of|2024|October}}, Limassol hosts 6 consulates general and 33 consulates.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Limassol - Foreign consulates |url=https://www.embassypages.com/city/limassol |access-date=2024-10-06 |website=EmbassyPages}}</ref>
{{Div col|colwidth=20em}}
*{{ARM}}
*{{BEL}}
*{{BWA}}
*{{CPV}}
*{{COL}}
*{{CIV}}
*{{ECU}}
*{{FRA}}
*{{GEO}}
*{{ISR}}
*{{ITA}}
*{{LVA}}
*{{LSO}}
*{{LBR}} (consulate general)
*{{MLT}} (consulate general)
*{{MUS}}
*{{MDA}}
*{{MNE}}
*{{NLD}}
*{{NIC}} (consulate general)
*{{PAK}}
*{{PLW}}
*{{POL}} (consulate general)
*{{PRT}}
*{{ROU}}
*{{LCA}}
*{{WSM}}
*{{SEN}}
*{{SLE}} (consulate general)
*{{SVK}}
*{{SVN}} (consulate general)
*{{TZA}}
*{{TGO}}
*{{UKR}}
*{{VNM}}
*{{YEM}}
*{{ZMB}}
{{Div col end}}

== Notable people ==
{{main|List of people from Limassol}}

==See also==
{{cmn|*[[Amathus]]
*[[Cyprus University of Technology]]
*[[Kourion]]
*[[Laniteio Lyceum]]
*[[Limassol Castle]]
*[[Limassol District]]
*[[Limassol Molos|Molos Promenade]]
*[[List of cities, towns and villages in Cyprus#Municipalities|Municipalities in Cyprus]]
*[[List of shopping malls in Cyprus|Shopping malls in Cyprus]]
*[[List of tallest buildings in Cyprus|Tallest buildings in Cyprus]]
*[[My Mall Limassol]]
*[[Port of Limassol]]}}

==References==

=== Notes ===
{{Notelist}}

=== References ===
{{reflist|30em}}

== External links ==
* {{Official website|https://www.limassol.org.cy/en/home}}
* [https://www.limassoltourism.com/en/ Limassol Tourism] – official tourism website
* {{OSM relation|3263730}}
{{Subject bar|commons=yes|n=yes|wikt=yes|b=no|q=no|s=yes|v=no|voy=yes|d=yes}}
{{Municipalities of Cyprus}}{{Limassol District}}
{{Authority control}}

==Further reading==
*{{cite book |last1=Dubin |first1=Mark |title=Rough Guide to Cyprus |url=https://archive.org/details/roughguidetocypr01dubi |url-access=registration |date=2009 |publisher=Rough Guides Ltd. |location=London |isbn=9781858289939 |edition=Sixth}}
* {{cite book | last =Abulafia | first = David | author-link = David Abulafia | title = The Great Sea: A Human History of the Mediterranean | year = 2012 | publisher = Penguin Books | isbn = 978-0-141-02755-5}}
* {{Cite book| last=Turnbull | first=Stephen | title=The Ottoman Empire 1326–1699 (Essential Histories Series #62) | publisher=[[Osprey Publishing]] | year=2003 | isbn=978-0-415-96913-0 }}
*Wolff, R L and Hazard, H W (Editor), 1969, [http://digicoll.library.wisc.edu/cgi-bin/History/History-idx?type=header&id=History.CrusTwo ''A History of the Crusades, Volume II: The later Crusades, 1189–1311''], University of Wisconsin Press, {{ISBN|978-0299048440}}

[[Category:Limassol| ]]
[[Category:Mediterranean port cities and towns in Cyprus]]
[[Category:Municipalities in Limassol District]]