Historic Sites of Cyprus - Part 2

A continuation of last week's post, we thought we'd bring you more information on the historic sites of Cyprus. The ancient sites we will be talking about this week includes Tenta in Kalavasos, Kolossi Castle in Limassol, Kourion (Curium) in Episkopi and Tomb of the Kings in Paphos. All four of these sites are the remains from ancient Cyprus and are filled with history just waiting to be uncovered.

Tenta, Kalavasos is an archaeological site that is home to the remains of a Neolithic settlement. The site dates back to the eighth millenium BC, developing an original civilisation called the Cypriote Aceramic Neolithic. The settlement is surrounded by walls and consists of a variety of buildings with either a simple circular or double circular ground plan. Just like Choirokoitia, Tenta was abandoned where the island remained uninhabited until the Ceramic Neolithic civilisation emerged. The ruins of Tenta include the remains of the winding walls which made up the circular huts of the village.

Originally Kolossi Castle, Limassol was a Frankish thirteenth century fortification in Cyprus. The castle was built by the Knights Hospitallers in 1210, which almost remained in their possession until the Mameluke raids 1525/1526 destroyed the castle. The only break that occurred was between 1306 and 1313 when the Knights Templar over run the castle. Kolossi Castle that currently stands today was built in 1454, the order to construct it was made by Louis de Magnac. On the walls of the structure you can still see Louis de Magnac’ coat of arms.

Kourion (Curium), Episkopi is an archaeological site that consists of both Byzantine and Roman ruins. The earliest sign of inhabitants of Kourion is believed to date back to 4500-3900 BC during the Neolithic period. However, it is believed that the town itself was founded by the Argives in thirteenth century BC. Kourion has played an important role in times of conflict During the Cypriot uprising against Persia (fifth century BC), its king, Stasanor betrayed his country, lending his support and troops to the Persians. Throughout both the Roman and Byzantine era Kourion continued to be inhabited and buildings, monuments and structures still remain today. The many remains are Kourion include, the theatre, a third century AD Roman market or “agora”, public baths, a Nymphaeum, the fourth century AD House of Achilles and a third century AD House of the Gladiators.

Tomb of the Kings, Paphos is a Hellenistic necropolis that contains eight well-preserved tombs. It is a third century BC archaeological site where its monarchy was abolished in 312 BC. The Tombs of the Kings was the cemetery to the elite, including prominent figures and high ranking officials. It was used throughout the Hellenistic and Roman era, up until the fourth century. In Medieval times it was damaged by squatters, who were said to have modified the tombs. When visiting this site you are able to go down into the tombs, you are able to see the tombs structures, columns and porticos.

I hope this information has been helpful in assisting you with the various ancient sites of Cyprus that can be uncovered on your visit. For more information about any of these locations please feel free to contact us at:

http://www.cypruspropertyvillas.com