Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Nicolaidis Winery WINERY
( % 2522 1709; www.facebook.com/nicolaides.winery ; Anogyra)
Part of the CTO's 'Wine Routes', this third generation boutique winery produces some interesting tipples. Stock
up on their rosé (which they're known for) while there.
Ancient Amathous
Ancient Amathous ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
(admission €2.50; h 9am-7.30pm Jul-Aug, to 5pm Sep-Jun)
The remains at this archaeological site, about 11km east of Lemesos, belie its original im-
portance. Amathous was one of Cyprus' original four kingdoms (the others were Salamis,
Pafos and Soloi). Founded about 1000 BC, the city had an unbroken history of settlement
until about the 12th century. As much of the stone has long been looted for other building
projects, imagining the ancient city layout can be baffling. At the entrance an excellent ex-
planatory pedestal helps interpret the ruins.
Legend has it that the city was founded by Kinyras, the son of Pafos. It is also said that
Kinyras introduced the cult of Aphrodite to Cyprus.
Amathous suffered badly at the hands of corsairs during the 7th and 8th centuries, and
by 1191, when Richard the Lionheart appeared on the scene, the city was already on the
decline. Since its harbour was silted up, King Richard was obliged to disembark on the
beach to claim the once proud and wealthy city. He promptly applied the royal coup de
grâce by destroying it, and Amathous was no more.
Occasional free summer concerts are held within the grounds. Look for posters at the
site or check with the CTO in Lemesos.
Episkopi
Pop 3170
One of the main reasons for visiting the village of Episkopi, 14km west of Lemesos, is the
Kourion Museum (Episkopi; admission €2.50; h 8am-7.30pm Jul-Aug, shorter hours rest of year) . The col-
lection mainly comprises terracotta objects from Ancient Kourion and the Sanctuary of
Apollon Ylatis, and is housed in what used to be the private residence of archaeologist
George McFadden. The museum is signposted off the Lemesos-Kourion road, as well as
in Episkopi itself.
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