Kourion
Kourion is an ancient Greek city and an archaelogical excavation site on the southwestern coast of Cyprus, 13 kilometres west of Limassol.
The site was being occupied from at least the Ceramic Neolithic period (4500-3800 BCE). Kourion is one of the most important Cypriot cultural sites.
Notable constructions
House of Achilles
This ruin is dated back to the early-4th century AD. It consists a gorgeous mosaic floor.
House of the Gladiators
This elite residence is dating to the late-3rd century AD. The house is arranged around a central atrium, with porticos on all side, and is adorned with numerous mosaic floors. The eastern portico of the atrium contains two panels depicting gladiators in combat.
The Northwest Basilica
This is other of two ruined basilicas on the site, situating in northwest of the acropolis. It originally had three-aisles and was accessed through a peristyle courtyard. The basilica was destroyed by the Arab raids in the mid-7th century.
Something to nearby
- An important cultural monument in Limassol, with a museum
- 14 kilometres west from Limassol. Bus 17 goes directly to the site from Limassol. This former Crusader stronghold from the 13th century is part of the rich and bloody history of The Crusades and one of the most significant ruins in Cyprus. It currently consists of a single three-storey keep with an attached rectangular enclosure or bailey about 30 by 40 metres.
How to get there
CyprusBus operates bus tours to the ruins from Limassol.
Text: Timo Hellman
Photos: With the CC licence / Romeparis
