Ayia Napa Poem by Elia Michael

O look what they have done to you!
You have lost your old-fashioned charm
And your beautiful unspoilt view.
My friend, they have done you much harm.

You used to be a little place
With a ruined monastery.
Back then you were not in our face
But rather quite solitary.

A small village is what you were
With deserted beaches of sand.
The sight of you made my heart stir,
As I walked on your holy land.

But look what they have done to you!
I remember you when papa
First took me, when tourists were few.
What magic you had, Saint Napa!

Your harbour was prettily quaint
With fishermen’s bright-painted boats.
Little houses had whitewash paint
And in their yards were hens and goats.

And now you are a concrete town
With restaurants and bars and clubs
Where partying people come down
Who just drink in your clubs and pubs.