Salamis

Salamis: Ancient city full of history

Salamis is located on the northeast coast of Cyprus and is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island. Its history dates back to the 11th century BC, and the town played a key role as one of the most important commercial and political centres of ancient Cyprus. Salamis flourished under the rule of various civilisations, from the Greeks to the Romans, and its ruins today offer a fascinating insight into this rich heritage.

Entrance to the ancient city

Salamis is well signposted, and on arrival, you are greeted by the sight of a beautiful sandy beach. After buying a ticket for €1.2 per adult (children get in free), you can set off to explore the nooks and crannies of this ancient treasure. That is, if you don’t get caught by the locals first to play and cuddle with them for a while.

In the courtyard you can take a photo with the sign “Salamis” and choose your route. Whether you choose to walk around the perimeter or straight between the walls, be sure to enjoy the atmosphere of the place.

Gymnasium

Our first steps led through the Gymnasium and the Baths. There are several statues in the courtyard of the Gymnasium, most of them headless – the result of Arab raids and earthquakes. These statues represent Roman deities and important personalities. From this courtyard, several alleys lead to other buildings for sporting activities. Formerly part of the gymnasium, the Baths were among the most luxurious in the Roman world.

From this courtyard, several alleys lead to other buildings for sports activities. Formerly part of the gymnasium, the baths were among the most luxurious in the Roman world.

Between the Gymnasium and the Baths, you will be charmed by the long colonnade of columns leading to the Gymnasium. This colonnade, known as the Stoa, is one of the most remarkable features of the city. It once served as the main promenade connecting the various buildings.

Stretching along both sides of this promenade, the columns created sheltered spaces where residents could move about, protected from the sun. Although not all of the columns are fully preserved today, their imposing remnants clearly show the grandeur of the site. Strolling through this colonnade allows you to imagine what life was like back in the day when people gathered here for business, sports or social events.

Baths

Roman Baths included rooms with different temperatures, such as the tepidarium ( warm room) and the frigidarium ( cold room). Impressive frescoes are still visible in some places.

In addition, you will also find the entrance to the cistern. It got the kids quite interested.

Roman Theatre

Salamis Theatre belongs to the largest of its kind in Cyprus, once able to accommodate up to 15,000 spectators. Built in the 1st century BC, it later underwent several renovations. Besides theatrical performances, it was also used for gladiatorial fights.

However, the altar here is more reminiscent of a place for sacrifices. Only the lower levels, part of the stage and fragments of the columns that decorated the upper parts of the building have been preserved.

These sights are the end of the short tour, and if you want, you can go on a long one. We went, and honestly, it wasn’t worth it. We wasted an hour of our time as the other sights were almost completely gone.

If you decide to continue, expect greater distances between locations.

Fish market

This fish market in Salamis was an important trading place for fresh fish and seafood from the Mediterranean coast. Today, you will find the remains of the stone stalls and pillars that once supported the shelters of this busy market.

Temple of Zeus

Only the foundations of the temple of the god Zeus, which once dominated Salamis, remain. Nevertheless, the site was of great importance to the ancient city. Built on a hill above the city, the temple was dedicated to the main Roman deity.

How to get here?

Salamis is located about 6 km from Famagusta. It takes only a few minutes by car, but you can also arrive by public transport. With buses running directly to the entrance of the archaeological site, you have several options.

The ride is an experience in itself, thanks to the decorations around the road. For example, this roundabout in Famagusta fascinated me.

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