It was in the 3rd century when a Christian monk decided to go to a remote area, northeast of Limassol to build his monastery. Upon getting there, he chose the highest hill that dominated the whole south area, that was many kilometres away from the shores of Limassol and north he had a smooth view towards the mountains of Kionia, Madari and Troodos. With the means he had at his disposal, he dug into the rock and created the space that would host him. This space, the cell, was to give the name of the settlement that was created later on in the same area by admirers and disciples of the monk, Kellaki.
As years passed, Kellaki became the head-village, thus concentrating institutional, political and legal principles on its territory. Its residents, being laborious and active, transformed the infertile hills to fields. The vines covered huge areas of land, likewise the fruit and vegetable plantations. The most well-known tomatoes of Cyprus were produced in Kellaki.
After 1980, urbanism hit the village, just like it hit all the mountainous and semi-mountainous villages. The population diminished and the vines were left to be destroyed by time. Bushes and pines got their place.
A few years ago, the situation changed. With pressure from the residents, the government opened a new motorway that joins the villages of the area and Kellaki with Limassol. It is an uphill journey, through green hills. There are no specifically difficult points during the journey.
Upon reaching the entrance of the village, the visitor sees a magnificently beautiful image. Kellaki lies at his feet. The beautiful church of Agios Georgios, built on the highest spot of the hill, dominates the whole village, that is built like an amphitheatre on its slopes, “descending” to lower areas.
Before you enter the village, the community park “welcomes” you. It is a small park with a few games for children and benches. A little further, there is a space formed with rocks of the area and large jars, that are both symbolic. The rocks show the bonds of the residents with their village and the large jars show the prosperity they brought to their community.
Kellaki seems to be, and really is an organised community. It is a community that is interested in its own progress and the diligence of its people. There are medical services, a football stadium, great parking places, a market and a bank.
By leaving your car at one of the parking places, you can wander about the whole village by foot. We do not have journeys to suggest. No matter which one you choose, you have a lot to gain. By walking along the narrow streets of the village, you can see and observe the old houses, and how the match harmonically with the new ones.
The church of Agios Georgios is a construction of the 18th century, will impress you with its architecture. The belfry is totally carved, and looks more like an embroidery than an element of architecture.
You can observe the whole village and not only from the surroundings of the church. You will see the villages of Eptagonia, Arakapas and Dierona “spread” on the surrounding valleys.
From the church and through the narrow and picturesque streets, take the direction to the church of Agia Marina. It is a small chapel, next to the cemetery, in a small gorge. Apart from the chapel, you will see the beauty of the perennial olive trees and the way that progressive residents transformed barren land to fertile. Talk to the residents and ask them to buy local fruits and vegetables. You will be surprised by their taste.
After you finish with your walk by foot in the village, go back to the its entrance and take the direction to the village of Sanida. At a small distance of 50 metres there is a wonderful location for a panoramic view of the village. The area is accessible for wheelchairs. Continue the journey for about 800 metres on your left you will see the picnic area called “Archangelos”.
The picnic area offers everything an excursionist needs. Grills, benches and tables, potable water, sanitaries. The picnic area offers access to all the facilities to people on wheelchairs as well. From there you can see the city of Limassol, the cape with the salt lake and the sea. You will see the port of Limassol and you will watch the ships that depart or arrive. At the same point, on the east, there is a chapel dedicated to Archangel Michael. It is a very old construction that, due to the indifference of the authorities, despite the pressure put by the community council, it was left to get destroyed. Today you can only see the foundations of the stone built walls. The Department of Antiquities of Cyprus has great responsibility for this, since it was under their control to conserve and restore the old monument.
Continuing towards the village of Sanida for another 500 metres on your left once again, you will face the female Holy Monastery of Zoodochou Pigis (the Source of Life). It is built on a calm slope, in the pine forest, just as it should be done when it comes to a religious monastery. Visits are always welcome, but there is a certain time schedule. Remember that from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm it is closed.
On ending your visit to the village of Kellaki, and upon taking the road of return, do not forget to stop and see the quarry of Limassol. Kellaki is a wonderful destination, such for single-day as well as multi-day excursions, since different premises offer accommodation.
