Ancient Kourion in Cyprus — History, Attractions, and How to Get There
Just a short distance from Limassol lies one of Cyprus’s most impressive archaeological sites — ancient Kourion. This site attracts history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, admirers of beautiful landscapes, and even extreme sports enthusiasts alike.
The ancient settlement of Kourion is one of the island’s oldest cities, well-preserved to this day. Today, it is of interest not only to tourists and historians but also to paragliders due to its unique terrain and stable air currents.
History of Kourion
Kourion was an ancient Greek city-state located on the southwest coast of Cyprus. According to ancient sources, Greek settlers from Argos who had participated in the Trojan War arrived here in the 12th century BC.
Throughout its history, Kourion was under the control of Egyptians, Romans, and Byzantines. In the 4th century AD, the city suffered a series of devastating earthquakes — according to various sources, at least five. Despite restoration attempts, residents eventually abandoned the city, and it gradually fell into decline.
Later, Kourion, already uninhabited, came under the control of the Venetians, the Ottoman Empire, and the British Crown.
Sights in Kourion
Most archaeological findings in Kourion date to the Roman, Late Roman, and Early Byzantine periods. The entire archaeological zone is managed by the Department of Antiquities of Cyprus.
Within the archaeological park, visitors can see:
- Temple of Apollo
- Remains of Hellenistic period structures
- Roman amphitheatre
- Cemetery by the Amathus Gate
- Aqueducts
- House of Gladiators
- House of Achilles
- Forum and forum baths
- Stadium
- House and baths complex of Eustolios
- Northwest Basilica
- Early Christian Basilica
How to get to Kourion
The Kourion archaeological zone is located within the British Overseas Base of Akrotiri and Dhekelia, but it is freely accessible from the Republic of Cyprus side and is managed by the Department of Antiquities.
By Car
From Limassol, take the A1 road towards Paphos. Travel time is approximately 15–20 minutes. Parking is available next to the ticket office and is included in the entrance fee.
On the way, you will likely pass Kolossi Castle — if desired, plan a stop there as well.
By Public Transport
Buses No. 16 and 16B (going to Kourion Beach) run almost 30 times per day. On Saturdays, the number of trips is roughly halved, and on Sundays, about 10 trips are made.
Check the current bus schedule in advance for planning purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kourion
How much does it cost to visit Kourion?
The entrance fee for the Kourion Archaeological Park is €4.5. The Department of Antiquities Museum Pass is also available: €8.5 for 1 day, €17 for 3 days, and €25 for 7 days.
What are Kourion’s opening hours?
The archaeological park is open daily. Ticket sales end 30 minutes before closing.
- September 16 — April 15: 08:30 — 17:00
- April 16 — September 15: 08:30 — 19:30
What makes Kourion notable besides its history?
Kourion is one of the main paragliding launch sites in Cyprus. Thanks to stable air currents, flights are possible most of the year, and the coastal views are considered among the most beautiful on the island.
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I am a person who is not afraid to change life when my heart tells me that something greater lies ahead. I am originally from Belarus. I have journeyed from pedagogical and economic education to the financial sector and many years of work in logistics — a world where everything moves, changes,…