June

Festival of the Flood - Variable

Kataklysmos, which coincides with the day of Pentecost, is a religious feast celebrated only in Cyprus. The word Kataklysmos, which means flood, is found in the book of Genesis and in the Greek myth of Deukalion. In both these instances, Kataklysmos refers to the destruction of life on earth, apart from the faithful and men of God - in Genesis, Noah and his family and the animals in the Ark, and in the Greek myth, Deukalion and his wife, who were saved to give birth to a new and moral generation. The ceremonies for Kataldysmos last for a few days and take place in all seaside towns and resorts. Celebrations include folk dances, boat races, swimming competitions and popular songs such as ‘tchattista’, which are improvised verses, sung by different parties competing with each other. The most popular custom at Kataklysmos is throwing water at one another, symbolising the purification of the body as well as the soul.

Shakespearean Nights

One of Shakespeare’s plays is staged every year at the ancient Curium amphitheatre.

Ancient Greek Drama Festival

Organised every year by the Cyprus Theatrical Organisation and the Cyprus Tourism Organisation, the festival revives the glory of ancient Greek drama in theatres dating back to antiquity. Performances are held at the ancient Curium amphitheatre and at other open-air theatres during July and August.

Paphia Festival

The Municipality of Paphos organises various performances (theatre, music, dance) during the months of June, August and September at the ancient Odeon and the Paphos castle area.