The Kourion Archaeological site is a truly remarkable place of great importance, continuously uncovering new treasures through ongoing excavations. It is a must-visit destination for anyone on the island, as the remains of the ancient city of Kourion are renowned as the most well-known and frequently photographed in Cyprus. Kourion held significant status as a city-kingdom, and the site consists of numerous monuments, many of which originate from the Roman era.
Among these monuments are the Theatre, the forum, the Nymphaeum, the Public Baths, the Fountain House, the House of the Gladiators, and the House of Achilles. The Greek Roman theatre stands out, boasting exceptional acoustic qualities and offering breathtaking views. It is undoubtedly one of the most impressive sites for visitors. Additionally, the extraordinary villas discovered at the site, with their remarkable mosaic floors, as well as the early Christian basilica, are also noteworthy among the site’s many treasures.
Originally constructed in the late 2nd century BC, the theatre assumed its current proportions during the 2nd century AD. It features a semicircular orchestra encompassed by seats within the cavea (subterranean cells). The southern part of the theatre was enclosed by the scaenae frons (façade) building, which likely reached the same height as the cavea. However, only its foundations remain today. Two vaulted corridors, known as parodoi, were located on either side of the stage for audience entry. With a seating capacity of up to 3,500 spectators, the theatre underwent modifications in the early 3rd century AD and was transformed into an arena for fights with wild animals. By the late 3rd century AD, the arena spectacles waned, and the theatre returned to its original purpose.
Today, the theatre has been fully restored and serves as a venue for musical and theatrical performances.
