Limassol
Kolossi Castle Limassol has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Over the centuries, it has been ruled by various empires and civilisations, including the Greeks, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Venetians and the Ottomans. As a result, the city has a rich archaeological heritage that reflects the influences of these dierent cultures. A wonderful place to take in all this history is at Kolossi Castle. Towering above the city, the castle consists of a large central courtyard surrounded by high walls and towers. Inside the courtyard, there is a well that provided water for the castle’s inhabitants. The castle also has multiple rooms and chambers, including a chapel, a kitchen and a dungeon. The upper floors of the castle were used as living quarters for the castle’s garrison. One of the most interesting features of Kolossi Castle is its association with the production of Commandaria , a sweet dessert wine that has been produced in the area since ancient times. The Knights of Saint John were instrumental in developing the local wine industry, and they built a large wine press at the castle to produce Commandaria . The wine press is still visible today, and you can see the large stone tanks that were used to ferment the grapes. Best of all, the castle oers spectacular views of the surrounding area, including the Kouris River and the Troodos Mountains. Kourion Archaeological Site Another important area that may pique your interest is Kourion. This site was an important city-state in ancient Cyprus. Today, you can tour the well-preserved Roman public bathhouse, and several houses and villas from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Yet, the Greco-Roman amphitheatre is the highlight. The Greek Roman theatre is remarkable with its acoustic qualities and beautiful views; I find it to be the most impressive ruins at this site. However, the villas discovered there with their exceptional mosaic floors and an early Christian basilica are also rather noteworthy.
The theatre was constructed at the end of the 2nd century B.C. but took its current dimensions during the 2nd century C.E. Consisting of a semicircular orchestra that is surrounded by seats, it was enclosed to the south by the building’s facade, though today only the foundations remain. Amathus Archaeological Site Limassol embodies beauty, which is why it’s no surprise to find a temple dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite at Amathus. Home to several ruins, you may wander through the remains of the city’s walls, the agora , the public baths, and several houses and villas. This UNESCO World Heritage site dates to 1100 B.C. Since then, it was conquered by a number of armies, including the Persians, Ptolemies, Romans and Byzantines. At the end it was destroyed and abandoned during the 7th century C.E. as a result of the Arab invasions. Exploring Limassol One beautiful aspect of these sites is that to reach the ruins, you’ll journey through vast groves of lemons, oranges and olives, and take in the majestic mountains and scenery and stunning beaches of Limassol. And don’t forget to explore the various items available for the perfect keepsakes and gifts, from lovely lace and jewellery to copper creations and local pottery. There is much to be enjoyed on a visit to Limassol!
Phillip Leech has a deep love of travel and has sailed the world. He is the Corporate Destination Manager for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
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