Cyprus, an island where history and mythology merge beneath the waves, offers more than just spectacular diving sites; it offers gateways to a world of legends and tales. Every ripple in the water whispers stories of ancient gods, mythical creatures, and lost cities, making every dive an adventure into the fantastical.
Aphrodite’s Birthplace: The Petra tou Romiou
One cannot speak of Cypriot legends without mentioning Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, who is said to have risen from the sea’s foam. Petra tou Romiou, or Aphrodite’s Rock, is a popular diving and tourist spot reputed to be her birthplace. Divers often look for blessings of beauty and eternal youth, hoping the goddess’s favor still lingers in these waters.
The Lost City of Amathus
Near Limassol lies the ancient city of Amathus, one of the oldest royal cities of Cyprus, which according to legend, was founded by one of Hercules’s sons. The underwater remains near the shore are believed to be part of this ancient city, drawing divers who are keen to explore ruins that might have been touched by demigods.
The Ghostly Shipwreck of Zenobia
The wreck of Zenobia, a ferry that sank on its maiden voyage in 1980 near Larnaca, is enveloped in modern myth. Stories circulate about the ghostly sightings of the figure of a woman on the decks, often thought to be the spirit of the ship itself, watching over the marine life that now inhabits her structure.
The Guardian Serpent of Cape Greco
Dive into the depths of Cape Greco, and you might hear the tale of the sea serpent Ophiotaurus, a creature half bull, half serpent, said to guard the peninsula’s caves and crevices. Divers often speculate about this mythical guardian’s presence, feeling a thrill of adventure that perhaps, just perhaps, the beast might be more than just a legend.