12+1 Archaeological Treasures of Cyprus

A Journey Through History and Culture

Cyprus is an island steeped in history, its story stretches from the Neolithic period all the way to Roman times. Scattered across the island are archaeological sites that reveal the evolution of civilisations, art, religion, and the daily lives of the people who once lived here.

Below you’ll find a detailed guide to 12+1 of the most important archaeological sites in Free Cyprus, perfect for day trips, cultural exploration, and anyone curious to dive into the island’s past.

LARNAKA

1. Choirokoitia

Location: Near Larnaka
What it is: A Neolithic settlement dating back to the 7th millennium BC and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why visit: This is one of the best-preserved examples of early permanent human settlement on the island. Its circular houses and defensive walls hint at a highly organised society.
Operating Hours: Summer: 08:30-19:30 | Winter: 08:30-17:00
Entrance: €2.50

2. Tenta (Kalavasos)

Location: Kalavasos, Larnaka
What it is: A Pre-Pottery Neolithic site (7000–5200 BC) featuring reconstructed dwellings.
Why visit: The restored structures offer a vivid picture of early building techniques and daily life, including how communities handled fire or structural collapse.
Operating Hours: Open year-round; check schedule before visiting.

3. Ancient Kition

Location: Kiti, Larnaka
What it is: An ancient city-kingdom active from the Geometric through the Hellenistic periods.
Why visit: The site includes sanctuaries, workshops, homes, and cemeteries, evidence of long, continuous habitation and cultural growth.
Operating Hours: Summer: 09:30-17:00 | Winter: 08:30-16:00
Entrance: €2.50

NICOSIA

4. Idalion (Dali)

Location: Dali, Nicosia
What it is: An ancient city-kingdom with major economic and cultural significance during the Bronze Age.
Why visit: Explore fortifications, copper workshops, pottery, and sculptures. Idalion is also linked to mythology and Assyrian written records.
Operating Hours: Open on weekdays; contact the Department of Antiquities for details.

5. Tamassos (Politiko)

Location: Politiko, Nicosia
What it is: A city-kingdom famous for its rich copper deposits.
Why visit: The site features royal tombs, sanctuaries, walls, and remains spanning from the Bronze Age to early Christian times.
Operating Hours: Weekdays; confirm before visiting.

LIMASSOL

6. Kourion (Episkopi)

Location: Episkopi, Limassol
What it is: One of the most spectacular ancient cities of Cyprus, with a theatre, mosaics, villas, and the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates.
Why visit: It showcases layers of history, from Neolithic to Hellenistic, Roman, and early Christian periods. The Roman theatre and mosaics are must-sees.
2025 Update: Visitor Centre closed June 1 - Dec 31  |  Partial conservation works at the House of Eustolios (Oct 27–Dec 20) limit access
Operating Hours: 16/9-15/4: 08:30-17:00 | 16/4-15/9: 08:30-19:30
Entrance: €4.50

7. Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates (Kourion)

What it is: A major religious centre dedicated to Apollo, god of forests.
Why visit: Features a temple, palaestra, and Roman baths. Entrance is included in the Kourion ticket.

8. Amathus (Germasogeia)

Location: Germasogeia, Limassol
What it is: An ancient royal city-state with a harbour, agora, tombs, and a Sanctuary of Aphrodite.
Why visit: Known for Roman-era remains, mosaics, and its long history of religious worship.
2025 Update: Digital guides are now available via mobile or tablet.

PAFOS

9. Palaipaphos (Kouklia)

What it is: The ancient city with a sanctuary dedicated to Aphrodite.
Why visit: With monuments dating back to the Chalcolithic period, this is a cornerstone of Cypriot cultural heritage.
Operating Hours: Follow Department of Antiquities schedule.

10. Nea Paphos

What it is: A Roman city featuring mosaics, a theatre, an odeon, agora, and residential areas.
Why visit: A political and cultural centre of ancient Cyprus and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

11. Maa - Palaeokastro

What it is: A fortified settlement from the Late Bronze Age.
Why visit: Crucial for understanding the arrival of the first Mycenaean Greeks around 1200 BC.

12. Prehistoric Settlement of Lemba

What it is: A Late Chalcolithic settlement (3500 - 2400 BC).
Why visit: Reconstructed houses help visitors visualise prehistoric life and craftsmanship.

TAMASSOS

13. Ancient Sanctuary of Apollo (Tamassos)

What it is: A rural sanctuary dedicated to Apollo near ancient Tamassos.
Why visit: The site includes offerings and ritual structures that shed light on religious life in the Cypriot countryside.
2025 Update: Newly completed excavations mean fresh discoveries are now on display.

A Journey Through Time

Each of these sites offers a unique window into the island’s rich past. From early Neolithic communities to grand Roman cities and sacred sanctuaries, Cyprus is an open-air museum waiting to be explored. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just love meaningful travel, these archaeological treasures promise a journey filled with learning, scenery, and discovery.