Kourion, Cyprus

Kourion was an ancient city on the southwestern coast of Cyprus.  The surrounding Kouris River Valley has been occupied for over 6000 years.

image1(Theater)

The Acropolis of Kourion, located on the coast of Episkopi Bay, is situated on top of a limestone promontory nearly one hundred meters in height. The Kourion Archaeological Area lies within the Akrotiri West Sovereign Base Area and all its antiquities are managed by the Cyprus Department of Antiquity.  Kourion is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

image4(Underfloor of Roman House)

image5

Kourion was an urban center of considerable importance within Cyprus, reaching the climax of its influence in the Roman and Late Roman periods. The city is mentioned by several ancient authors including: Ptolemy, Stephanus of Byzantium, Hierocles, and Pliny the Elder. Though Kourion attained its highest prominence under the Romans, the Kouris River Valley has long been occupied.
 image3

image6

image7

*    *     *    *    *    *    *    *

For a list of Ian Cook’s photography and TravelGumbo contributions, please click on this link.

Share the Post:

Comments

2 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
8 years ago

I love Roman ruins…your photos are excellent – as always!!

8 years ago

Great photos!

Featured Destination

Rethymno: More of Crete

Rethymno is a rare combination of history and modern-day luxury, with its multicultural old town, tropical beaches and exquisite Cretan cuisine.

Read More

recommended by TravelGumbo

Gumbo's Pic of the Day