Kourion Mosaics, Epiksopi, Limassol
Directions€4,50
Pensioners, Children, and Students - Free
For organised groups consisting of more than 10 persons there is a 20% reduction on the entry fees.
The Department of Antiquities can issue special entry cards for all its museums and ancient monuments: One (1) day entry cards - €8,50, three (3) day entry cards - €17,00, seven (7) day entry cards - €25,00.
September 16 - April 15, daily: 08.30 - 17:00
April 16 - September 15, daily: 08:30 - 19:30
All year round.
Closed on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Easter Sunday (Greek Orthodox).
Note: The CultureSpot team is doing its best to provide the most accurate information through regular updates. However, operating hours, entrance fees and any details thereof are subject to change without prior notice. Visitors are recommended to verify the information before planning their visit.
Kourion, an important city-kingdom in ancient times, now stands as a remarkable archaeological site in Cyprus, boasting well-preserved mosaics adorning the floors of its grand villas.
Among the notable structures in the area is the House of Eustolios, situated east of the theater and believed to have been built around the early 5th century AD. It derives its name from Eustolios, the builder, as mentioned in an inscription. The entrance's antechamber features a welcoming mosaic inscription, and three of the porticoes and a bath complex to the north are adorned with mosaic decorations. Originally constructed as a residence, the house eventually opened to the public after the baths were built and mosaic floors were added.
Another prominent villa is the House of Gladiators, dating back to the second half of the 3rd century AD. Notably, it derives its name from a series of mosaics near the main courtyard depicting gladiatorial combats. The house featured an atrium in its central part, with entrance access through a stairway on the northeast corner, leading to a smaller atrium connected by a corridor. Unfortunately, the southern part of the building was destroyed, likely due to earthquakes in the 4th century AD. Adjacent to the corridor lies a typical bath complex.
Also significant is the House of Achilles, dating back to the 4th century AD, characterized by an open courtyard flanked by rooms on two sides and a portico. The house is named after the mosaic portraying the legendary Greek hero, Achilles. It was probably used for hosting official guests and boasts additional mosaic floors throughout its premises.
Situated on the left bank of the river Pediaios, in the region that now encompasses the villages of Politiko, Pera, and Episkopio, stands a vast archaeological site with remarkable discoveries. Among the findings are the temple of Aphrodite, two grand royal tombs, and several smaller burial sites.
In the Dali Village area of Cyprus lies the significant archaeological site of Idalion, renowned for its abundant discoveries displayed in prestigious museums worldwide. The origins of this ancient city are attributed to Chalcanor, an Achaean hero from the Trojan War and a descendant of Teucer, the founder of Salamis.
Amathous, an important ancient city-kingdom in Cyprus, holds mythological significance as it was where the Greek hero Theseus left the pregnant Ariadne in the care of local women. The city was also a significant center for worshipping the Goddess Aphrodite-Astarte. The archaeological site of Amathous boasts a wealth of historical discoveries. Among them are the Agora, the public baths, the Temple of Aphrodite, early Christian basilicas, and several tombs.
Kourion, one of the island's most significant city-kingdoms in ancient times, boasts remarkable archaeological remains that have been extensively excavated. These findings can be explored at the site. Built atop hills, the city-kingdom of Kourion commanded a view of the fertile valley of the river Kouris. Archaeological evidence suggests a connection between Kourion and the Greek legend of Argos of Peloponnese, with its inhabitants believing they were descendants of Argean immigrants.
Kolossi castle stands as a splendid illustration of military architecture, originally constructed in the 13th century and later rebuilt in its current form during the 15th century. Following the fall of Acre in 1291, it assumed the role of the Grand Commandery for the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem.