Kapilio is a small picturesque wine village of the Limassol district situated 550 metres above sea level in a green area among pine trees and vineyards through which the Ambelikos river 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 A.D. 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 lies one of the oldest buildings, it belonged to Kyko Monastery, and was used by the monks as the monastery’s dependency. Kapilio is 22 kms from Limassol and can be found on the Limassol-Troodos by – pass after going through the villages of Apesia-Korfi-Limnati and after Kapilio, the villages of Agios Mamas and Trimiklini. According to tradition, in the area where the village is presently situated there were 7 distileries ( Linos) that produced an excellent quality of wine, commandaria, zivania as well as raisins. The name Kpilio is derived from the 7 distilleries that were also used as “Kapilia” (taverns) for the many people that traveled through the area transporting their goods destined for Larnaka, the island’s main traiding centre. In the past the inhabitants were over 300 today there are only 30. Lately, many people who have left the village and many foreigners have started to repair old houses and build new ones giving Kapilio a new lease for life. The inhabitants’ main occupation is the cultivation of vineyards, of almont trees olive trees and fruit orchards. Up to the 1980’s kapilio was well-known for the production of the Cyprus Peaches. A Society of the Expatriate and friends of Kapilio has been established that in collaboration with the Local Council organize 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 ritual 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 neighboring village, met while riding their stallions.
