Agros

Located at the center of the Pitsilia region in the Limassol district, Agros is a small town nestled amidst the slopes of the mountains.

The village's name is intertwined with its origins. Tradition holds that during the 11th century, the establishment of the village began with the founding of the monastery of Great Agros (or "Μονή του Μεγάλου Αγρού" in Greek). According to belief, monks from Asia Minor arrived and built a monastery in the area. Subsequently, during a pandemic that struck the island in the 17th century, people sought refuge around the monastery and built their residences, leading to the emergence of the village. The monastery's name bestowed its identity upon the newly formed settlement.

Today, Agros presents itself as a quaint mountainous town that harmoniously blends modern amenities with its traditional character. Alongside schools, a hospital, public offices, hotels, and restaurants, the village boasts a rich cultural heritage. The Frangoulides Museum stands as a notable institution, established in 2004 to honor the work of Solomos Frangoulides, a pioneering Cypriot painter. During his residency in the village from 1932 to 1934, Frangoulides painted icons for the village church. The museum exhibits part of the artist's work. Another significant site is the traditional olive mill of Timios Prodromos' church, a manually-operated mill once utilized by olive oil producers. The presser, mill, and other tools now comprise a small museum. Another olive mill from the same era can be found near the main village church.

Agros boasts a significant number of churches and chapels scattered throughout the village. The central, majestic church is dedicated to Panagia Eleousa (Virgin of Tenderness) and was erected in the early 20th century. Interestingly, this church was built on the same site as the monastery of Great Agros, which was demolished in 1894. Nearby stands a smaller church, dedicated to Saint Margaret, housing artifacts from the old monastery. Another prominent church is Timios Prodromos, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, constructed in 1860 and situated in the eastern part of the village. A more recent addition is the chapel of Saint Gerasimos, built between 2004 and 2008.

Beyond its cultural heritage, Agros and the broader Pitsilia region offer a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts. Three nature trails connect with the village, providing opportunities for trekkers to immerse themselves in nature. One circular trail spans 6 kilometers between Agros and Kato Mylos, passing through orchards of apple, pear, and cherry trees, vineyards, and rose bushes. Another linear trail, covering 6 kilometers, links Agros to the neighboring village of Lagoudera, offering captivating views of the Troodos mountains from the mountain ridge of Madari-Papoutsa. The final trail begins at the village's water dam and leads to Madari summits, home to a fire observatory and one of the island's most panoramic locations.

Local products play a significant role in Agros' identity. The village is renowned for cultivating Rose Damascus, known as "μυρωδάτη" ("mirodati" or odoriferous) or "ορείτικη" ("oritiki" meaning mountainous), used to produce rose water, rose oil, and various organic products. The village's meat products, including hiromeri, lountza, and Cypriot sausages, are also highly regarded. Additionally, a traditional sweets company offers a wide array of spoon sweets and marmalades made from local fruits and preserving traditional recipes. Notably, Agros's products find not only local distribution but also international export.

Revered as the crown jewel of the Pitsilia region, Agros is a remarkable village that has preserved its natural beauty amid the surrounding forest. Its deep-rooted Cypriot culture and traditions welcome visitors from Cyprus and abroad throughout the year.