Kourion is an intriguing archaeological site in Cyprus, where you can check out an ancient Roman theatre, the ruins of a Roman bath and amazingly well-preserved mosaics. We visited at sunset!
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Kourion in Cyprus
People have been living in Kourion in Cyprus for thousands of years, and in ancient times it became an important centre. In 365 AD the empire was destroyed in a massive earthquake and the site is now a popular historical attraction.
Kourion is located in the southern part of Cyprus, about 17 kilometres west of Limassol.
Ancient Roman theatre in Kourion
The main attraction of the site is the magnificent Roman theatre, originally built in the 2nd century BC. It is tempting to call it an 'amphitheatre', but as it is not round but only a semi-circle, one has to be content with talking about it as a Roman theatre.
Once upon a time, this was a violent place where gladiators were thrown to the lions. Today, thankfully, its use is different. The theatre has been renovated in modern times and is used during the summer months for theatre, musicals and various concerts. Shakespeare's plays, among others, have been performed here. A great environment for acting, we must say!
Mosaics and antique baths
Right next to the theatre are the remains of the once prominent building "Eustolios House". This was originally a private villa, which over time was transformed into a public recreation centre. Among the ruins of the building, you can see amazing and well-preserved mosaic floors from the 5th century. Incredibly impressive!
The site is also home to the remains of an ancient bathhouse, which once held everything from cold baths to steaming hot pools. You can still see how the floor was constructed, with heating systems under the pools.
Visiting Kourion
If you're just a little bit interested in history, a visit to Kourion is fascinating. You can get here by car hire or join a bus tour. The site is open all year round, almost every day with the exception of some public holidays.
We came here on the first day of our Cyprus trip, arriving just before the sun dropped over the sea. We had to hurry a bit to see everything we wanted, but it was nice to see the ancient site bathed in the last rays of the evening sun.
More to see and do in the neighbourhood
After visiting Kourion, there is of course more to see and experience in Cyprus. Feel free to visit the cosy Limassol Marina and the exciting city Pafos. Or why not take a trip to Aphrodite's rock?
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Have you visited Kourion in Cyprus?
Have you visited Kourion in Cyprus? How was your experience? Do you like to visit ancient sights on your holiday?
facts about Kourion - archaeological site in Cyprus
- Country: Cyprus
- Location: Southern part of Cyprus, about 17 kilometres west of Limassol, on the road to Paphos.
- Nearest major community: Acrotiri
- Name: Kourion (in Greek Κούριον and in Latin Curium)
- Opening hours: The site is open all year round, daily except for Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Easter Sunday. In the summer, the site is open from 08:30 to 19:30 and in the winter from 08:30 to 17:00 (2022). Please note that changes in opening hours may be made.
- Price: Admission €4.50 (2022)
- Accessibility: The area is partially accessible to people with reduced mobility. Please note that there are shorter stairs in several places.
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Yossu says:
I love visiting historical sights so I would have loved to go here. I was particularly fond of the beautiful mosaics. It's fantastic that they have managed to preserve it.
27 November 2022 - 19:35
Helena says:
Just like us, we also love history! 🙂 The mosaics are amazing, and it is incredible that they are so well preserved. There are even finer ones in Paphos, we will show these a little later!!!
27 November 2022 - 20:03
bmlarstravellingblog says:
We also love historical sites, especially the fascinating architecture of the Romans. The mosaic floors are very reminiscent of what we saw in Jordan, so delicious.
I realise that a return visit to Cyprus is in order as I didn't see much more than pools and the sea when we were there in 40-degree heat with three rather small children.
27 November 2022 - 21:49