Kapileio is a small picturesque wine village in the Limassol district, situated 550 metres above sea level, in a green area among pine trees and vineyards, through which the river Ambelikos flows. It is built on a low hill and consists of small stone houses that lend it an exceptional quaintness.
East of the village lies the ancient church of Agios Georgios o Tropeoforos (St George the Triumphant) dating from the 12th Century. Other small churches are Panayia I Ambeloudjiotissa (Virgin of the Vineyards) and Panayia I Hamadjiotissa (Virgin of the Baths) that are celebrated on Easter Monday and Easter Tuesday respectively. On the north side of the village stands one of the oldest buildings. It belonged to Kykos Monastery and was used by the monks as the monastery’s dependency.
Kapileio is 22 kilometres from Limassol on the Limassol to Troodos by-pass, after going through the villages of Apesia, Korfi and Limnati. According to tradition, in the area where the village is presently situated there were seven distilleries (Linos) that produced an excellent wine, Commandaria and Zivania as well as raisins. The name Kapileio is derived from the seven distilleries that were also used as Kapilia (Taverns) for the many people that travelled through the area transporting their goods to Larnaka, the island’s main trading centre.
In the past, the inhabitants numbered over 300 and today there are just 30. Lately, many people who have left the village and many foreigners have started to repair old houses and build new ones, giving Kapileio a new lease of life. The inhabitant’s main occupation is the cultivation of vineyards, almond trees, olive trees and fruit orchards. Up to the 1980s Kapileio was well known for the production of Cyprus Peaches.
A Society for the Expatriate and friends of Kapileio has been established, in collaboration with the Local council, organise various cultural events. One of which is the annual Dance that takes place in the gardens of the village’s cultural centre and attracts many expatriates and friends of the village.
Another tradition that is still being followed is the procession, on the anniversary of St George, of the Saint’s ancient icon from house to house, ending at the village square where, according to tradition, St George and St Mamas, from the neighbouring village, met while riding their stallions.
