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Aphrodite Hills Golf Environmental Facts

General
The 234-hectare site is surrounded by the Randi Forest, which is protected by the Forestry department of the Government. The site consists of two gently sloping plateaus (known as Kapsalia N-W and Dasia S-E) at approximately 130-200m above sea level. A ravine divides the two plateaus with steep slopes known as Argaki tou Randidhiou.
The ravine with its natural beauty and ecological interest will remain untouched by development apart from a simple nature trail, which will be routed along. All areas disturbed by the construction process are reshaped and replanted using only endemic trees and shrubs. Landscaping of the various developments uses again endemic plants except for some exotic small shrubs and ground covers. The STP station of the resort will recycle all sewage from within the site for irrigation purposes. The selection of warm season grass for the golf fairways with reduced irrigation requirements is another proof of the environmental concern. The extensive grassed areas and the two artificial lakes together with the withdrawal by the government of the hunting permit within the site will enhance the local fauna.

Flora:
The tree community consists of approximately 2000 Olive trees (Olea Europaea) and 4000 Carob trees (Ceratonia siliqua). Both trees indigenous to Cyprus. A few Pine and Oak trees are also present in the northwest end of the ravine. Approximately 200 olive trees that were within construction sites were transplanted in a temporary nursery for later transplanting in their landscaped areas.
The shrub community is dominated by thousands of the indigenous Lentise (Pistacia lentiscus). Above are complemented by at least a hundred species of other shrubs, perennial and annual herbs and weeds giving a variety of colours to the environment all year round.

Fauna:
Includes mainly birds. These are permanent residents such as Partridges, Francolins, Rock Doves, Woodpigeons and the raptors Bonelli’s eagles. Also there are many migrating birds that visit Cyprus for over wintering, breeding or resting during their migratory journeys including Swallows, Swans, Bee-Eaters and Woodchats. Mammals found on site include Hares, Hedgehogs and Foxes. Other wildlife includes Frogs, Molluscs and many insects such as Butterflies, Ants and Bees.

Antiquities:
At least two ruin sites exist at Aphrodite Hills.
The most recent is a 10 room building with built in fireplaces, a cistern and a stone threshing floor in parcel K. The building is believed to be an old inn dating from the 19th Century on the old Paphos to Limassol road. The stone threshing floor is believed to be used by the local farmers as the western plateau and part of the eastern plateau used to be agricultural land.
The second site, which is of archaeological interest, is at the southwest end of the site. This is believed to be Roman - Byzantine settlement dating 200BC - 200AD. Arch3aeological excavations are currently underway. Up to date these have revealed ruined walls of simple buildings, some remains of clay pottery and nearby what is believed to be an oil and/or vine refinery. Additionally on the east edge of the western plateau there are at least two caves carved in hard rock and which are believed to be ancient graves. Three limekilns exist on site, two of which are within golf fairways and act as kiln bunkers according to our Golf course architect.

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