Salamis
Σαλαμίς / Salamis
An ancient city-state site north of Famagusta, with a theatre seating 15,000 people and Roman sports facilities.
Salamis lies on the eastern coast of Cyprus, about 6 km north of the old town of Famagusta. It was one of the most important ancient city-states on Cyprus, passing through the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods before declining after earthquakes and Arab raids. Near the entrance is a gymnasium that has been extensively restored. A colonnaded courtyard with several headless statues stands beside a Roman bath. The Augustan-era theatre seats about 15,000 people. Walking south, you can see the Cathedral of Bishop Epiphanius, the great cistern, the Temple of Zeus and market ruins. On the west side, a necropolis contains royal tombs with unearthed chariot grave goods. The site is open-plan, and a full walk takes 3 to 4 hours, while seeing only the core takes about 2 hours. It is open roughly 08:00–19:00 in summer and 08:00–17:00 in winter. The site is in northern Cyprus. From the south, you must pass through the Green Line crossing point. It can be combined with the old town of Famagusta and the Monastery of St Barnabas on the same day.
Opening hours
Summer approx. 08:00–19:00; winter approx. 08:00–17:00 (confirm on site)
Nearby sights
- Long Beach (Iskele)
- Panagia Theotokos Icon Museum (Iskele)
- Boğaz Fishing Harbour
- Kantara Castle
- Bafra Beach
- Panagia Kanakaria Church
- Yialousa & Agios Thyrsos
- Ayia Trias Basilica