Originally, Lofou consisted of shepherd farms in the valley, which gradually developed into stone houses with wooden and mud or clay roofs. During Ottoman rule, Lofou was part of the 'Kaza of Koilani', and by 1832, it was solely inhabited by Greek Cypriots. The village grew in population and infrastructure, with the church construction and establishment of a primary school in 1855.
"Kaza" is a term that was used in the Ottoman Empire to denote an administrative subdivision or district that was smaller in size than a vilayet or sanjak but more significant than a nahiya. It's akin to what we call a county or district today.
"Kaza of Koilani", therefore, refers to the administrative subdivision where the town or village of Koilani was located. This subdivision existed during Ottoman rule in Cyprus, which lasted from 1571 to 1878.
Your day begins with a serene visit to the historic Kykkos Monastery, where the ornate decorations and tranquil atmosphere offer a peek into Cyprus's rich ecclesiastical tradition. From there, you journey to the mountain tomb of Makarios III, a place marked by solemnity and historical significance, boasting panoramic views of the island. The next leg of your trip involves traversing the medieval Venetian bridges over the Diorios River, where the impressive architecture harkens back to an era of grandeur and rich cultural exchange. As the sun sets, you find yourself in the charming village of Lofou, walking down its cobblestone streets, surrounded by traditional stone houses that seem to whisper tales from the past. Here in Lofou, you end the day with a sense of fulfilment, as if you've truly experienced the very heart and soul of Cyprus.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
