Explore Kourion Cyprus and Apollon Hylates

Apollon Hylates Cyprus and Kourion Cyprus are among the island’s most compelling archaeological sites, showcasing the religious devotion, urban sophistication, and architectural legacy of ancient Cypriot civilizations. Set amid the stunning landscapes near the modern city of Limassol, these two sites reveal the cultural and spiritual heart of Cyprus from the Archaic period through Roman times.

In this Sanyctours Infothek entry, we explore the history, function, and fate of both the sanctuary of Apollon Hylates and the city of Kourion—two places where myth meets reality and ancient stone whispers the stories of empires, faith, and resilience.

 

Explore Apollon Hylates Cyprus and Kourion Cyprus—two major archaeological sites reflecting the spiritual, architectural, and civic life of ancient Cyprus.

Apollon Hylates Cyprus

Located about 2.5 kilometers west of Kourion, the Sanctuary of Apollon Hylates was one of the most important religious centers of ancient Cyprus. “Hylates” is a local epithet of Apollo, referring to him as the protector of woodlands. This site was a center for pilgrimage and worship for over 1,000 years, from the 8th century BCE until the 4th century CE.

The sanctuary complex evolved significantly over time. Early structures were modest, but under Roman rule, it became a grand religious complex with a colonnaded processional way, votive areas, baths, priest’s quarters, a palaestra (wrestling ground), and a large temple rebuilt in the 1st century CE.

Worshippers came to seek Apollo’s favor for fertility, health, and protection. Numerous votive offerings and inscriptions found at the site reflect the personal and communal role of religion in daily life.

The site was gradually abandoned after the rise of Christianity and suffered damage from earthquakes. Today, its partially reconstructed columns and sanctified setting continue to inspire awe.

Kourion Cyprus

The city of Kourion was originally founded by Mycenaean Greeks around the 12th century BCE, making it one of the oldest settlements in Cyprus. Strategically perched on a coastal cliff overlooking Episkopi Bay, Kourion became a major city-kingdom and prospered through the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

The city reached its architectural and cultural peak during Roman rule. Its public buildings were richly adorned and carefully engineered, including:

• The Greco-Roman Theatre: Originally built in the 2nd century BCE, it was later expanded and used for drama, music, and gladiator shows. Today, it is restored and hosts performances once again.
• The Forum and Baths: Social and administrative life centered here. Visitors can see the remains of columns, mosaic floors, and heating systems.
• The House of Eustolios: A late Roman villa that combined private living quarters with a public bathhouse, its mosaics reflect early Christian iconography.
• The Early Christian Basilica: A large 5th-century church showing the transition from pagan to Christian faith in the region.

Kourion was heavily damaged by a series of earthquakes in the 4th century CE and was slowly abandoned, especially after Arab raids in the 7th century. Some areas were repopulated nearby, but the ancient city was eventually left to ruin. Excavations began in the late 19th century and continue to reveal new findings.

Visit Apollon Hylates Cyprus Kourion Cyprus and with Sancytours

Some short informations about your tour

Pick-Up about 9:00 to 9:15 at your hotel, depending where you´re staying

Please bring your passport with you and comfortable shoes

Tour Highlights:

– Private guided tour of two key archaeological sites
– Visit Kourion – cliffside theatre, mosaics, Roman baths & more
– Explore the Sanctuary of Apollon Hylates in a forest setting
– Learn about Cyprus’ ancient kingdoms, rituals & mythology
– Flexible routing & schedule
– Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
– Guide available in English or German

 

Tags:
ancient city cyprus, ancient sites Cyprus, Apollon Hylates Cyprus, cyprus archaeology, cyprus temples, greek history cyprus, kourion cyprus, kourion theatre, Roman ruins Cyprus, sanctuary of apollo cyprus