Explore Serrachis River this winter, Cyprus’ 3rd longest river
The Serrachis River is the third longest river in Cyprus running a total of 55 kilometres, until it empties out into the bay of Morphou. It is a truly a sight to be seen in the cooler months, as the river fills with water and passes through a number of the island’s villages.
Its coursing waters connect with a number of smaller rivers, being Merika River, Akaki River (37km long), Peristerona River (35km long), and just before it reaches the sea the Ovgo River (32 km long).
Four of the island’s dams have been constructed to collect water from the river, with the main one being the Kalo Chorio – Klirou Dam, Cyprus’ third largest.
Christian tradition says that the remains of saints Varnavas and Ilarionas were found on the banks of the Serrachis.
During, a day out in the village of Peristerona, you can enjoy the site of the river flowing, while exploring the town.
The village is 32km away from the capital, and is known for its agricultural products.
Peristerona is known for the Cypriot-Byzantine church, with a five-domed structure. A part of the original church’s north wall still survives and has been incorporated in the western part of the existing church. The oldest wall paintings are from the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries.
Next to the church stands the Turkish mosque of Peristerona. The image of the two religious buildings side-by-side has appeared on past currency and stamps as a symbol of peaceful coexistence between Greek and Turkish Cypriots prior to the 1974 Turkish invasion.
The photos of the river come from Pavlos Nacouzi (Enjoy the village).
