Sotira is one of the largest villages in the Famagusta district. It is built with a slight slope towards the sea and an average altitude of 75 meters. It is a coastal community about 8 kilometers from Agia Thekla's beach. As of January 1st 2012, Sotira has become a Municipality, with 4,444 residents currently (World Population Review). Historical sources claim that Sotira was established during the Byzantine era, and you can still see it listed as "Sotira" on old maps. Its name is a Hagiological one, as it bears the name of Christ the Savior.
There are two Folk Myths about the name of the village. The first mentions that Sotira was built on the coast of Agia Thekla as a settlement, after an attack by pirates the residents were forced to move to a safer place and thus moved to where the village is today, giving it its name of Christ the Savior who saved them from pirate raids. A second popular opinion says that the name of Sotira came from the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior, which was built in the 12th century by the Byzantines in the village and is a noteworthy example of a medieval structure.
Many refer to the community as a "Byzantine town" because of its 17 Byzantine and Post-Byzantine churches, which are famed for their architecture. You can also find other notable monuments such as the Meletion Historical Museum, with traditional-folklore exhibits, the memorials to the fallen and the E.OKA 55-59 museum. Agriculture and animal husbandry are the locals' primary occupations. The village is famous for the kolokasi (taro root - colocasia esculanta) that is being cultivated in the area. Every September the local people are celebrating with the Kolokasi Festival.
Sotira is mostly a residential area with a variety of houses, apartments and bungalows. It offers a quiet and peaceful living, with beautiful nature around you. It is very close to the other touristic areas of the Famagusta district, such as Paralimni, Ayia Napa and Protaras. Find your perfect property among our 61 apartments listed for sale.
If you are planning to retire in Cyprus or start your life here, Sotira has a lot to offer!
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