Location
Vouni village is one of the Limassol wine villages, at a distance of 35 kilometers from the city and an altitude of approximately 800 meters. The village maintains a very picturesque image, with cobbled streets and stone built homes with colourful doors.
Its unique natural beauty as well as its architectural heritage make it a popular agrotourism destination as well as a permanent residence.
Name
The name of the village is associated with its location, which is considered a small mountain (vouno), due to the hills that surround it.
History
The village is believed to have existed since the Middle Ages, as it appears on Venetian maps as ‘Voni.’ It appears to have had 4 large settlements, but 3 of those were destroyed by the plague epidemic of 1692.
It is believed that the surviving settlement was under the protection of Saint John the Baptist. Inhabitants of other settlements that survived the plague were transferred to Vouni, where a monastery dedicated to the Saint was built.
In the middle of the 20th century, the population reached 2000 residents. Today, just 170 permanent residents are living there.
Caves
On the southern slopes of the village, there are 2 very old caves, which are thought to have been used as catacombes during the early Christian times.
The Square
The ‘Mesochoros’ is the main square of the village today, with its characteristic cafe, ‘I Platia’. There, the Tavernaki of Lenia is also located. On the steps in front of its entrance, cushions have been placed, that attract both the locals and visitors of the village, every day.
The School
At the top of the village there stands the old Primary School, which has been completely restored and functions as an event space. Its courtyard houses the monument with the names of the fallen in the village during the fight against the British in ’55-’59, as well as during the Turkish Invasion of 1974.
Museums – Monuments
Museum of Folk Art: Elements of daily life, furniture and clothing of people who resided in the village during the last century are on display at the Museum of Folk Art.
Havouzes (Reservoirs): In the entrance of the village there are 2 reservoirs (havouzes) that were building during the Venetian occupation and during the Turkish occupation, to supply fresh water to inhabitants.
Olive Mill: As a mainly agricultural village, Vouni has its own Olive Mill, which has been reserved and is open for visits.
Oenology Centre: Next to the community park, near the entrance of the village, a space dedicated to the tradition of wine was created.
Right next to the Oenology Center, there is a modern park with a playground and an outdoor amphitheater, which hosts events.
Ecclesiastical Museum: The Ecclesiastical Museum is located right next to Timiou Prodromou Church. It was founded in 2021 and houses the ancient icons of the village church dating back to the 16th century.
Churches
Church of Timios Prodromos: It is the main church of the community. The walls are stone built, while the entrances are decorated with carved stone. The decoration of the stone belfry is exceptional, as are the 19th century frescoes in its interior.
Church of Panagia Peravouniotissa: A stone-built basilica in a peaceful location about 1km from the village, with panoramic views towards Vouni.
Chrysosotiros Chapel: This chapel is located on a hill just outside Vouni. It is a rectangular temple with a dome, and enjoys excellent views of the surrounding slopes. It celebrates on 6 August, on the anniversary of the Transfiguration of the Savior, with a large festival in its courtyard.
Chapel of St. John the Russian: This small chapel is the only one of the island dedicated to Saint John the Russian, believed to be a miracle worker.
Agios Mamas Chapel: The chapel of Saint Mamas is a basilica with a dome, built in 1938 with local stone both on the inside and the outside. The chapel is always open to visitors.
Skiti Anastaseos tou Sotiros (Hermitage of the Resurrection of the Savior): It is located about 4 kilometers south of the village.
Accommodation
Vouni has plenty of options for accommodation, mainly in terms of restored houses, that are suitable for families, large groups, as well as couples.
Shops
Vouni Grocery Store (96 518601)
It is famous for its handmade scented candles, soaps and other edible products produced in Vouni or the surrounding villages.
Events
1. Palouze Festival: An annual festival that takes place in the 3rd week of September.
2. On May 1st the village residents organize a Flower Wreath Competition.
For further Information please also see the Vouni Community Council Website