The Village of Kakopetria was mentioned during the Francish times in Cyprus.
The Frankish occupation of Cyprus began in 1192 when King Richard the Lionheart of England sold the island to the Knights Templar, who sold it to Guy de Lusignan, a French nobleman. The Lusignan dynasty, which ruled Cyprus until 1489, significantly changed the island's social, economic, and cultural landscape.
Under the Lusignan rule, Cyprus became a feudal state with a powerful landed aristocracy. The French nobility introduced the concept of chivalry and the code of courtly love and promoted art and literature. The Church was also reorganised under the Latin Rite and brought under the control of the Roman Catholic Church.
The Lusignan period saw the construction of many impressive Gothic-style churches, such as the famous St. Hilarion Castle and the Cathedrals of St. Nicholas and St. Sophia in Nicosia. The Lusignans also established a thriving wine industry and encouraged trade with other Mediterranean powers, making Cyprus a prosperous island.
However, the Lusignan dynasty's rule was not without problems. Various powers, including the Mamluks of Egypt, the Genoese, and the Venetians, repeatedly invaded the island. The Cypriot population also suffered from the tyranny of the landed nobility, which imposed high taxes and forced labour on the peasantry.
In 1489, the last Lusignan king of Cyprus, James II, died without a male heir, and the island was sold to the Republic of Venice. The Venetian period brought new economic and cultural changes to Cyprus and lasted until 1571, when the Ottomans invaded and conquered the island.
A one-day tour of Nicosia and Kakopetria is a great way to experience the history, culture, and natural beauty of Cyprus. Starting in Nicosia, the capital city of Cyprus, you can explore the island's rich history by visiting numerous historical sites, such as the Venetian walls, Ledra Street, and the buffering zones.
After a morning of sightseeing in Nicosia, head to the picturesque village of Kakopetria in the Troodos Mountains. This charming village is renowned for its traditional architecture, including beautiful stone houses and winding cobblestone streets. Stroll through the town to admire the beautiful homes or visit the Church of Transfiguration, which boasts stunning frescoes from the post-Byzantine era.
One of the most popular attractions in Kakopetria is the Karkotis River, which offers a perfect setting for relaxing sightseeing or a refreshing waterfall breeze of the clear waters. For those who enjoy hiking, the Vateri Nature Trail is a great way to explore the surrounding mountains and forests.