Larnaca Salt Lake

Hello Guys !

How are you doing?

After 2 months in Cyprus, I am starting to explore the island. Indeed, this weekend, I had the opportunity to hike at Larnaca Salt Lake.

Well, it was amazing. I have even seen Flamingos. Let me share with you the beautiful story behind that lake!

Firstly, this area has been exploited by men early in history. It appeared that the existence of the Salinas also affected the Egyptians which name Larnaca “Alasia”(City of Salt). The Franks named it “Salinas” and the Ottoman “Tuzla” (Saltmarsh). Salt was very important before the invention of refrigerators. It was used to cook and preserve food like meat. So, during this period, the collection of salt was strictly controlled. They carried the salt by donkeys and piled it on the banks of Alykes for it to dry in the sun. Cyprus exported salt to the Eastern Mediterranean. Nowadays, the salt collection has stopped.

The Salt Lake used to be natural bays. In the 4^th century BC, erosion has left small lakes.

Well, as I told you earlier, I have seen Flamingos there! We were not allowed to get close to them. In fact, the lake is full of shrimps their main food. They came there for Winter. Other water birds feed themselves with invertebrates found in the lake.

It was very interesting and very easy. I really enjoyed my hiking.

Stay connected for my next adventures in Cyprus.

See you soon!