The ruins of the ancient Roman city of Salamis constitute one of the most impressive archaeological sites on Cyprus.

History of Salamis

St. Barnabas and St. Paul arrived in Salamis and established a church near here.

After surviving earthquakes and pirate raids, the city was abandoned in the 7th century AD when the population moved to what is now Gazimagusa.

What to See at Salamis

Most of the ruins date from the Roman Empire, including a well-preserved theater, an amphitheater, villas, and superb mosaic floors. Much of the ancient city is overgrown with a tangle of bushes and dune grass, which only serve to enhance the site's serene, poignant beauty.

There are very extensive ruins. The theatre, and the gymnasium have been extensively restored. Numerous statues are displayed in the central court of the gymnasium most of which are headless, destroyed by Christians. While a statue of Augustus originally belonged here, some columns and statues originally adorned the theatre and were only brought here after an earthquake in the 4th century.

The theatre is of Augustean date. It could house up to 15.000 spectators. It was destroyed in the 4th century. There are baths, public latrines (for 44 users), various little bits of mosaic, a harbour wall, a Hellenistic and Roman agora and a temple of Zeus that had the right to grant asylum.

Byzantine remains include the basilica of Bishop Epiphanos (AD 367–403). It served as the metropolitan church of Salamis. St. Epiphanios is buried at the southern apse. The church contains a baptistry heated by hypocausts. The church was destroyed in the 7th century and replaced by a smaller building to the south.

Quick Facts on Salamis

Site Information
Names:	Salamis
Categories:	biblical sites; city ruins; ruins
Status:	ruins
Visitor and Contact Information
Coordinates:	35.183611° N, 33.878889° E
Address:	Cyprus
Lodging:	View hotels near Salamis

Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours and prices can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

References

1. Fodor's Europe, 59th Edition (Fodor's Gold Guides)
2. Salamis, Cyprus - Wikipedia, Sept. 2006

More Information

• Photos of Salamis - here on Sacred Destinations