Kivides

The village Kivides is located about 26 km west of Limassol in the homonymous province of Cyprus, and is 60 km from Paphos, almost 90 km from Larnaca, and more than 100 km from Nicosia.

The first reference to Kivides was made during the Frankish period (1192-1489 AD) and it was linked to the medieval family de Kivides. Later the village, like others in the region, was granted by the King of Cyprus James II to his mother Marietta of Patras.

The name Kivides derives from the ancient kivizo verb meaning making cubes. Another version for the name is said to be due to the relationship that the settlement previously had with the medieval family of de Kivides.

Today, Kivides is divided into two settlements, Pano (Upper) and Kato (Lower) Kivides, which are about 2 km apart. The Pano Kivides is the youngest settlement, built at about 600 meters above sea level, while the Kato Kivides, which were located on a green hillside among narrow river-valleys and cliffs, remains abandoned since 1970 because of the high risk of landslides due to high levels of precipitation. Nevertheless, up to this day the settlement has retained its picturesque character and beauty, gifting the visitors with images from the past.

Kivides have about 650 permanent residents, many of whom work in the quarries (west of Pano Kivides operate slate quarries used to pave roads), while most commute to the capital and some are still engaged in viticulture.

The traveler to Kivides can make a stop at the main church of Agios Georgios (St. George), located in the old settlement, and in the chapel of Agion Akindinon with the famous narrow passage. Then, with the help and directions of locals in Pano Kivides you can admire vota, a special traditional building of the region, take a walk around the community park with the heroes monuments and the large playground. Also, in the heart of the new settlement you can see the new church of Agios Panteleimonas (St. Panteleimon), and within short distance the two old monasteries, Panagia (Virgin Mary) Chryseleousa and Agios Evstathios (St. Eustatius). There is no accommodation available in the settlement, but before continuing your journey you can try local specialties at the village restaurant.

Near Kivides also operates a donkey shelter, which relies entirely on public donations.