Located in the courtyard of Limassol Castle are critical archaeological artefacts indicative of the region's past - a reconstructed olive-oil press and mill from the Byzantine period, utilized between the 7th and 9th centuries A.D. The press was discovered during rescue excavations at the locality "Da-muftis" in the Kouris River valley, and the mill was found north of Limassol town.
The mill, a simplified version of the Hellenistic and Roman tapetum, employs just one millstone, or Orbis. The press, an evolution of the earlier lever-and-weight press, amalgamates a weight stone with a screw, making lifting the weight stone more manageable. This type of press, which can trace its origin back to the Roman period, was mentioned by Pliny the Elder. In Cyprus, it was widely utilized in oil presses and wine presses, even persisting until recent times, as evident in Lania and Omodos.
The press bed, mimicking the shape of a Roman oil lamp, is equipped with a circular channel and spout, which facilitates liquid flow into the receptacle pit. A straightforward application of the principle of gravitation allows for the separation of oil from water. The heavier water stays in the first pit, while the overflowing oil travels into a lateral cavity via an outlet in the rim of the first pit. The second pit is designed with a concave depression at the bottom to collect any remaining liquid.
Begin your enchanting few hours in Limassol with a convenient parking stop at the city's new marina's covered garage, the perfect starting point for a stroll through the upscale marina. Then, indulge in a morning coffee or late brunch at one of the waterfront establishments, where you can bask in azure waters and the tranquil rhythm of harbour life.
Continue your journey along the scenic Molos promenade, leading you to the verdant haven of Limassol's Municipal Garden, a lush respite amidst the city buzz. Depending on your interests and time, you may choose to explore the treasures of the nearby Archaeological Museum, steeping you into the island's rich history.
Transition to the historic heart of Limassol at Saint Andrew's Street, a living testament to British rule mingling effortlessly with modern innovation. Here, satiate your palate with an authentic meze at the local taverna, arguably one of the best in town, and delve into the flavorful world of Cypriot cuisine.
Venture deeper into the narrow lanes of old Limassol, past churches and the notable Limassol Castle, each step echoing tales of the legendary English King Richard the Lionheart and his famed wife, who wed right here in Limassol. Finally, let your day wind down as you sit along the waterfront, observing the gentle sea waves under the gradually dimming sky - a serene end to a day steeped in history, culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
