News

  21-01-2025

Havouza is the oldest of the three significant structures in Limassol related to the city's water supply system, alongside the Waterworks Engine of the Water Board of Lemesos (WBL) and the Water Tower. This historic structure dates back to 1896.

Built in the late 19th century, the Havouza consists of two identical elongated stone-built water reservoirs covered with vaulted ceilings. These impressive interiors were used to store water sourced from the Kitromilios Spring in the Polemidia area. The stored water supplied Limassol until 1930, when the Water Engine in Tsiflikoudia became operational.

Due to its significant elevation difference compared to the historic centre of Limassol, Havouza functioned as a water storage facility, collecting water from the mountainous areas and distributing it to the city through cast iron pipes. Initially, water reached neighbourhood fountains, from which residents collected it in jugs.

Excavations by the Department of Antiquities around Havouza have uncovered remnants of older structures, particularly on the northern and southern sides of the stone-paved reservoirs. Now that the monument is accessible, its exterior has become all the more interesting, however, only one of the two water reservoirs is currently accessible from the interior.

Havouza ceased operation once the city's water supply became fully managed by the Water Tower and the Water Engine. In 1996, it was officially declared an ancient monument.