In the past, the waves of the sea used to splash on the northern low cliffs of the village, which face the salt lake of Lemesos since the Peninsula of Akrotiri had not yet been formed. In particular, only the south edge of the present peninsula used to exit and that was only limited to a small island. With the passing of time, that small island connected to the rest of the island.

Historical background and Archaeology

The long history of Akrotiri unfolds through the archaeological findings of the area. Akrotiri and more specifically the location “Aetokremmos” is according to the Centre of Environmental Education and Information of Akrotiri the first part of the island ever to be inhabited by people during the pre-Neolithic period. In particular, the residents of “Aetokremmos” were hunters / food collectors and were nourished with dwarf hippos, elephants and other animals. The same area continued to be inhabited during periods more recent than the pre-Neolithic one, such as the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods. More: Antiquities

What is noteworthy is that Akrotiri falls within the boundaries of the British Military Bases. In fact, according to an agreement signed in 1960, the people of Akrotiri were going to be compensated to abandon their village, while at the same time maintaining the right to stay in the area for a total of 28 days per year in order to cultivate their land. Hence, after receiving their compensation, they left the village and returned to stay for the 28 days they were allowed to. However, they have not left the village ever since despite the strong recommendations made by the British army. Finally, in 1995, the British Garrison was forced to officially recognise the village.  

Population

Akrotiri managed to overcome the problem of rural depopulation and not only to maintain but also to increase its population. The only exception was a slight decrease of the population which was recorded in 1973 in comparison to 1960. In particular, according to the census of 1960, the village numbered 710 residents while the number decreased to 653 residents in 1973.

Several residents have found work at their birthplace, something which contributes enormously to the efforts made to maintain the population of Akrotiri. A significant number of residents work at the British Garrison and more specifically at the British military airport which is located southeast of Akrotiri.

At this point it must be mentioned that several problems arise due to the fact that the village neighbours with the cantonment of Akrotiri. In particular, the military aircrafts and helicopters often fly over the village this resulting in noise pollution and disturbance. At the same time, the antennas of the British Garrison cause a lot of concern as they are considered to be responsible for several health problems that the residents are facing. For this reason, the Community Council and other Organised Parties, using all legal means at their disposal, are fighting for the cease of the use of the antennas.  

Sources:

Akrotiri Community Council Archive

Great Cyprus Encyclopaedia, vol.1, Philokypros Publications, Nicosia 1987

Centre of Environmental Education and Information of Akrotiri Website:

www.akrotirienvironment.com