Kourion: The Ancient Marvel by the Sea

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Yia sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Τι κάνετε;
  [Ti kanete?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε Αγγλικά;
  [Milate Agglika?]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menou, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!Στην υγειά μας!
  [Stin igia mas]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Πήγαινε μακριά!
  [Pigaine makria!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astynomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε γιατρό!
  [Kaleste giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Ime arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kito]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na meiosete tin time?]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (10)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
• 8Οχτώ
  [Ohto]
• 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για ....)
  [Ena isitirio (ya ....)]

Kourion was founded in the 12th century BCE by the Mycenaeans, who were drawn to the strategic location and fertile land. The city prospered as a major trading center due to its advantageous position along the coast of Cyprus.

During the Hellenistic period, following the conquests of Alexander the Great, Kourion saw significant growth and development. The city was influenced by Greek culture, evidenced by the construction of notable structures such as the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates.

In 58 BCE, Cyprus became a part of the Roman Empire. Kourion flourished under Roman rule, becoming an important administrative and economic center. The city was adorned with grand buildings, including a theater, public baths, and elaborate villas with intricate mosaics.

On July 21, 365 CE, a massive earthquake struck the Mediterranean region, causing significant damage to Kourion. Many buildings were destroyed, and the city's infrastructure suffered greatly. The earthquake marked a turning point in Kourion's history, leading to a period of decline.

Despite the devastation caused by the earthquake, Kourion remained inhabited during the Byzantine period. The city saw the construction of several Christian basilicas, indicating the spread of Christianity in the region. The House of Eustolios, a complex with impressive mosaics, dates back to this era.

In the 7th century CE, Kourion faced raids from Arab forces. These incursions further contributed to the city's decline, leading to the eventual abandonment of Kourion by the late medieval period. The archaeological remains of the city were gradually buried over time, only to be rediscovered in the modern era.

The archaeological significance of Kourion was recognized in the early 20th century, leading to extensive excavations. Archaeologists unearthed a wealth of artifacts and structures, shedding light on the city's rich history and cultural heritage.

Kourion Archaeological Site is located on the southwest coast of Cyprus, near the city of Limassol. The nearest international airport is Larnaca International Airport, which is about 70 kilometers away. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use a shuttle service to get to Limassol. From Limassol, Kourion is just a short drive away, approximately 15 kilometers to the west. Public buses also operate from Limassol to Kourion, providing a budget-friendly option.

Once you arrive in Limassol, getting to Kourion is relatively easy. Renting a car is the most convenient option, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace. Taxis are also available and can be booked in advance. Public buses run regularly from Limassol to Kourion, with stops near major hotels and tourist areas. If you prefer guided tours, several companies offer organized trips to Kourion, often including other nearby attractions.

The official currency in Cyprus is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, including at the Kourion Archaeological Site's ticket office and nearby cafes. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of technical issues with card payments. ATMs are available in Limassol and other nearby towns, so you can easily withdraw cash if needed.

Kourion Archaeological Site and the surrounding areas are generally safe for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to remain vigilant. Petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas, so keep an eye on your belongings. Avoid isolated areas after dark and stick to well-lit, populated places. Limassol, being a larger city, has some neighborhoods where crime rates are higher, but these areas are not typically near tourist attractions.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number will connect you to police, fire, and medical services. The nearest hospital to Kourion is in Limassol, which has modern medical facilities. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Limassol where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be uneven. Avoid wearing high heels or flip-flops. Religion: Do respect the ancient ruins and any religious artifacts. Refrain from loud behavior and dress modestly. Public Transport: Do be courteous to bus drivers and fellow passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'kalispera' (good evening in Greek). A handshake is also appropriate. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine and drink plenty of water, especially in the summer. Don’t leave litter behind at the site.

To experience Kourion like a local, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Engage with local guides who can provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of the site. Don’t miss the ancient theater, which still hosts performances during the summer months. Nearby, the beach at Kourion is a great spot for a swim after your visit.