About Kourion Archaeological Site

When the world is a stage...

And we, the players - can we really not be impressed by the beauty and magnificence of a Greco-Roman theatre dating back to 2nd Century B.C. yet resounding and resonating today with live music and drama performances? Standing in the middle of an ancient kingdom called the Kourion Archaeological park, it bears testimony to the artistic sensibilities of the Greeks and the Romans. Nearby, you will find public baths with intricate heating systems and ornate villas with mosaics that will inspire your creative core. There is a Christian Basilica and a stadium as well. As you listen to the din of the waves in the distance, can you see the Greek and Roman warriors emerging from the surf, walking directly towards you? It is time for a conversation immersed in the warm luxury of a trellised bath. 

Welcome to Ancient Kourion. Situated in Cyprus, the Ancient Kourion is one of the best archaeological sites of Cyprus as well as World.  Actually, Cyprus is home to many ancient sites which made the country archaeologically famous all over the world.

Located just 17 kilometres west of the city Lemesos (Limassol), this ancient place attracts lots of tourists every year. Apart from the archaeological significance, Tourists are also attracted by its picturesque hilltop location and the amazing view of the Mediterranean Sea.  The place was named Kourion after the colonist Kaurifs. Possibly, founded in Neolithic times, the Ancient Kourion consists of ruins of Roman, Hellenistic and the early Christian era. It should be a perfect day trip combine with the medieval Kolossi Castle which is just a few kilometres away from this place. 

It is believed that the Mycenaean colonizers established their permanent colony in the 13th century in Kourion. The ruins of Ancient Kourion strongly remind us of the culture of Roman and Greek. The whole place consists of several houses. The mosaic craftsmanship that found on the floor of those houses is truly admirable. Some mosaics are still preserved. There are varieties of patchworks found in Kourion; it is presumed that these stone made patchworks are also constructed by Roman and Greek architect. 

Still, the Greco-Roman amphitheatre is standing intact. Most notably, the amphitheatre is still used for summer concerts and plays. Apart from the amphitheatre, there is also a cathedral and public baths that show us how advanced the technology was at that time. This site is highly recommended to visit when you are making a trip to Limassol.

Must See

  • House of Eustolios
  • House of Achilles
  • House of the Gladiators
  • The Bathing Complex
  • Remains of the Roman Agora
  • The Christian Basilica 
  • The Stadium of Kourion
  • Early Christian Basilica
  • Northern Plateau Ruins
  • Roman Theatre
  • Kolossi Castle

How to reach

The distance from Nicosia city center to this destination is 99.8 km and can be covered by the bus in 2 hours and 10 minutes and by car in 1 hour 20 minutes.

If you want to use public transport to Kourion from Limassol, just take the city bus No-16, this is just 40 mins or 16.8 km journey. Bus fare- €1.41 - €2.00

You can take a personal taxi from Limassol, this just 16 mins journey; there is a free parking place available just near to the Kourion visitor center. Taxi fare €1.89 - €2.83

Tips

  • Take the breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding landscape from the top of the cliff beside the amphitheater.
  • Watching a performance at the amphitheater is highly recommended.
  • The beautiful mosaics will impress you. So will the public baths from an ancient era.
  • The small temple, the Nymphaeum; is dedicated to water nymphs.
  • Watch your step as the terrain is uneven at some places.
  • Some of the information panels are written in Braille.
  • The hot sun can be challenging so be sure to carry a hat or umbrella.
  • Sunscreens are recommended for beauty-conscious belles.
  • The walk around the entire complex is long.
  • There are lots of nice restaurants and cafes nearby to relax and eat. 
  • The sunny beach of the Mediterranean Sea is perfect for a relaxing swim
  • Cultural events are held in the ancient amphitheatre especially during summer
  • Places are easily accessible by footbridge. Wheelchair facility is available as well
  • Be prepared for a good amount of walking on unpaved hilltops. Carry comfortable shoes
  • Check out the local cuisine at any of the nearby restaurants
  •  Washroom facilities are available at the reception
  • The shop at the entrance is a must-visit if you plan on taking home some souvenirs
  •  Don’t forget to carry plenty of water, a hat, and some sunblock

Visit Time

This attraction is open all year round except on Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Easter Sunday (Greek Orthodox).

16th April  to 15th September:

Sunday:        8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.

Monday:       8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.

Tuesday:      8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.

Wednesday: 8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.

Thursday:     8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.

Friday:          8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.

Saturday:     8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.

16th September  to 15th April: 

Sunday:        8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Monday:       8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Tuesday:      8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Wednesday: 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Thursday:     8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Friday:          8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Saturday:     8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Timings are subject to change with regular updates available on www.mcw.gov.cy.

 

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Waiting Time

On weekends and holidays you might have to wait for an hour at the ticket counter.

 

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Entrance Fee

Yes

Adults- €4, 50

A group of 10 or more can get a 20% discount

The Department of Antiquities issues special entry cards for all the museums and ancient monuments of Kourion

One (1) day entry cards - €8,50

Three (3) day entry cards - €17,00

Seven (7) day entry cards - €25,00

Read more

 

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Time you can spend

2 hours to 3 hours

 

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Weather

Clear Sky 24.42°C

 

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