Local stakeholders contacted by Politis consider the absence of an alternative tourist information point to be a very serious issue, especially at this time of year when the new summer season is beginning. They pointed out that there is no other suitable way to offer in‑person information to visitors on current matters relating to Larnaca and its district, such as transport links, points of reference and interest, events and other practical issues.
It is worth noting that the Deputy Ministry of Tourism’s Information Office is the only tourist information point operating across the entire Larnaca district. Mayor Andreas Vyras told Politis yesterday that the Municipality of Larnaca and the local tourism board have sent a letter of protest to the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, stressing that it is unacceptable for Larnaca to be left without a Tourist Information Centre at this time of year. At the same time, they are calling for an alternative solution to be found for the duration of the renovation works at the existing building in Vasileos Pavlou Square.
Vyras added that the municipality has not been informed about the expected duration of the renovation works, which are being carried out by the Public Works Department.
Pavement damage
In a report published yesterday by Politis, the poor condition in which Vasileos Pavlou Square has been left was highlighted. The square is located at a key point in Larnaca, close to the Finikoudes seafront and the city’s commercial centre.
Apart from the badly damaged roadway and the overall neglected appearance of the square, serious concern has also been caused by damage to the pavement in front of the entrance to the Deputy Ministry of Tourism’s Information Office. This particular section has become almost impassable for pedestrians.
Mayor Vyras said the damage was caused by a Public Works Department crew carrying out renovation works at the building. He noted that the issue is known to the Public Works Department, which has committed to repairing the pavement as soon as possible.
The renovation of Vasileos Pavlou Square, the old (and long‑abandoned) REX cinema, as well as the small park behind the Tourist Information Office, has been included in the second phase of project maturation under the new cycle of funding from the European Cohesion Policy Fund. Under the most favourable conditions, however, works on Vasileos Pavlou Square are expected to begin in 2028.
It should also be noted that Vasileos Pavlou Square is considered part of Larnaca’s historic centre, as it hosts, in addition to the Tourist Information Office, important museum and cultural venues with high visitor numbers. As such, it is one of the busiest squares in the city.
