CYPRUS: KOURION

The cultural richness of Cyprus is reflected in its ancient stones.

Located approximately 9 miles (15 km) west of the city of Limassol, Kourion is probably the most remarkable archaeological site on the island.

Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Kourion offers stunning ruins from the Greek and Roman periods, such as those of this early Christian basilica.

Kourion is actually made up of several distinct sites, all built between the 1st century BC and the 5th century AD.

Here, the columns of the dormitories of the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates.

Over there, the ruins of the public baths, also known as the Nymphaeum...

...with a finely carved column.

One of the most beautiful structures: the Temple of Apollo, dating back to the 1st century AD.

It is sometimes also called the Sanctuary of Hylates, the ancient name of this god.

A little farther, another spectacular feature of Kourion: this Roman amphitheater with 3,500 seats, dating back to the 2nd century AD.

Other remarkable relics: Roman mosaics from the 5th century AD.

Here is Ktisis, the embodiment of creative power, holding in her hand the Roman unit of measurement: the "foot."

This mosaic, found in the ruins of the House of Eustolios, is the best preserved of them all.