Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A
Ancient Kourion is close to two other attractions in the immediate vicinity: the Sanctuary of Apollon Ylatis
and Kolossi Castle; all three can be visited in the same day. As a cooling break, incorporate a swim at Kourion
Beach, spread out temptingly below the ancient site of Kourion itself.
Sanctuary of Apollon Ylatis
Sanctuary of Apollon Ylatis
ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
(admission €2.50;
h
8.30am-7.30pm Apr-Oct, to 5pm Nov-Mar)
About 2km west of Kourion's main entrance, and prominently signposted off the highway,
is the Sanctuary of Apollon Ylatis, which is part of the larger site of Kourion.
Apollon Ylatis' main sanctuary has been partly restored; the beautiful, imposing
columns mark the extent of the restoration. Also discernible are the priests' quarters, a pa-
laestra (sports arena) and baths for the athletes, and a rather depleted stadium 500m to the
east, which once seated up to 6000 spectators.
The precinct was established in the 8th century BC in honour of Apollo, who was con-
sidered god of the woods (
ylatis
means 'of the woods' in Greek). The once woody site
now has far less vegetation but retains a good scattering of remains that give a reasonable
idea of the layout of the original sanctuary. The remnants that you see are Roman struc-
tures that were levelled by a large earthquake in AD 365.
Kolossi Castle
Kolossi Castle
HISTORIC SITE
(Kolossi; admission €2.50;
h
8.30am-7.30pm Apr-Sep, to 5.30pm Oct-Mar)
This dollhouse of a castle (more like a fortified tower) perches on the edge of Kolossi vil-
lage. It is an interesting reminder of the rule of the Knights of St John in the 13th century,
who started producing wine and processing sugar cane at a commandery that stood on this
land. The current structure dates from 1454 and was probably built over the older fortified
building.
Kolossi Castle is accessible by a short drawbridge that was originally defended by a
machicolation (a parapet for protecting the castle) high above, through which defenders
would pour boiling oil on the heads of unwanted visitors. Upon entering, you come across
two large chambers, one with an unusually large fireplace and a spiral staircase that leads
to another two chambers on the second level. The only tangible remnant of occupation is a
