Archaeological Museums

The Limassol Archaeological Museum is a captivating destination that offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of Cyprus. Located in the heart of Limassol, this museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts dating back to the Neolithic period, spanning over 9,000 years of human civilization.

The Larnaca District Archaeological Museum contains an extensive assortment of archaeological discoveries from the entire Larnaka district, encompassing artifacts from the ancient city-kingdom of Kition, as well as the major Neolithic settlements of Choirokitia and Tenta - Kalavasos.

The Paphos District Archaeological Museum displays a collection of artifacts discovered in the Paphos region, spanning from the Neolithic Age to 1700 AD. The exhibits are spread across five rooms and primarily originate from Palaipafos (Kouklia), Nea Paphos (modern-day Paphos), and Marion-Arsinoe (Polis). Additional items come from various locations such as Pegeia, Kissonerga, Lempa, Pano Arodes, Salamiou, Akourdalia, Pomos, Kidasi, and Geroskipou.

The Cyprus Museum, the largest and primary archaeological institution on the island, showcases the evolution of Cypriot civilization from the Neolithic Age to the Early Byzantine period (7th century). Its impressive collections consist of artifacts from extensive excavations conducted across the entire island, which have significantly contributed to the advancement of Cypriot archaeology and research on the Mediterranean's cultural heritage.

The Kallinikeio Municipal Museum of Athienou, located in the Kallinikeio Municipal Hall, showcases various aspects of the area's history from the Late Bronze Age (1600-1050 BC) to the present day. It is divided into three main collections: the Archaeological Collection, the Collection of Ecclesiastical Art, and the Ethnographic Collection.

The Kourion Archaeological Museum resides within a traditional building, once the private residence of the late George McFadden. George McFadden served as the Assistant Director of the University of Pennsylvania and played a crucial role in leading extensive archaeological research in the ancient city of Kourion and its surrounding areas between 1934 and 1953.

In 2007, the Local Museum of Ancient Idalion was established with the primary purpose of showcasing and promoting the abundant historical discoveries from the Idalion region (Dali). Additionally, it was designed to serve as a Visitor Centre for the nearby archaeological site.

The museum's exhibits offer a comprehensive representation of the chronological phases of Idalion's history. These artifacts originate from both ancient and more recent excavations carried out in the area, encompassing both settlements and burial grounds.

In the Paphos resort of Polis Chrysochous lies the Local Archaeological Museum of Marion-Arsinoe, housing a fascinating array of antiquities uncovered from the ancient city-kingdom's former location. Comprising two rooms and an atrium, the museum showcases its exhibits in a chronological order, reflecting the historical evolution of the region from Neolithic to Medieval times.

Near Coral Bay resort lies the settlement of Maa-Paleokastro, which holds historical significance as the initial dwelling place of the ancient Mycenaean Greeks in 1200 BC. These Greeks migrated to the island after the fall of the Mycenaean Kingdoms in mainland Greece, marking the beginning of Hellenisation on Cyprus. As a result, this site provides valuable insights into the end of the Late Bronze Age on the island.

Presented by Clio and Solon Triantafyllides, the museum houses an exceptional private collection of Greek Mycenaean pottery, making it one of the most significant on the island. The collection features a distinct anthropomorphic vessel, along with the renowned white slip and base ring styles – both iconic pottery forms from Cyprus during the Late Bronze Age, renowned worldwide.