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Ruins of Amathus

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The ruins of Amathus are situated on the southern coast of Cyprus, east of Limassol, and constitute one of the island's oldest ancient city-kingdoms. The city was a preeminent center for the cult of Aphrodite, with her principal temple strategically positioned atop the acropolis. Due to its coastal location, Amathus flourished as a significant port involved in the export of grain and copper. One of the site's most famous artifacts is a colossal stone vase (pithos), the largest of its kind, which is now exhibited at the Louvre Museum in Paris; a replica stands at the original site today. Archaeological investigations have revealed the agora, lower city, early Christian basilicas, and harbor fortifications that are now partially submerged. The city's prominence waned following Arab raids in the 7th century, and it was finally abandoned in the 12th century during the conquest by Richard the Lionheart.

Location: Cyprus
Top sights: Water Tank · Stone Water Pies · West Portico
Nearby: Limassol (12 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Oct, Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	14	14	15	18	21	25	28	28	26	24	20	16
Rain mm	93	61	34	17	11	3	1	1	5	19	41	90

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The ruins of Amathus are an archaeological site east of Limassol and open to visitors. You can see the remains of the Temple of Aphrodite, the agora, and the acropolis.

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Typical hours

The site is typically open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., sometimes longer in summer. There is a lunch break; check current times before your visit.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the site, but without flash in protected areas. The ruins against the sea backdrop provide excellent photo subjects.

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Time needed

Visiting the ruins takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the main areas. If you also want to see the small on-site museum, allow 2 hours.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Amathus beach. The city of Limassol with its promenade and castle is also not far.

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Getting there

The ruins are easily reachable by car via the coastal road. There is a parking lot right at the entrance. Bus line 30 from Limassol stops nearby.

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Insider tip

Bring sunscreen and water as there is little shade on the site. Visit in the late afternoon when the light is softer and fewer cruise ships are docking.

Geography

Coordinates

34.71300, 33.14300

Facts

Established around 1100 BC by the Eteocypriot population.
Site of the renowned Temple of Aphrodite Amathusia.
The original monumental stone vase weighs approximately 14 tons.
Ancient harbor remains are still visible beneath the water surface.
Plundered by Richard the Lionheart's forces in 1191.
Archaeological finds on the acropolis span from the Geometric to Byzantine eras.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Amathus<1 km · SExplore →

St. Raphael Marina3 km · NExplore →

Cyprus on Ice5 km · SExplore →

Masterland The Children's City of Craftsmen5 km · SExplore →

Vasilikos Power Station5 km · NExplore →

Germasogeia Dam5 km · SEExplore →

Pharmanel Pharmaceuticals7 km · SExplore →

VTTV Vasiliko Oil Terminal7 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Ruins of Amathus (10)

Water Tank

Ruins of a water tank in Amathus, Cyprus.

Stone Water Pies

Ruins of stone water pipes in Amathus, Cyprus.

West Portico

Ruins of the west portico in Amathus, Cyprus.

Amathus

Major ancient city on Cyprus, founded around 1100 BC. Center of Aphrodite worship and copper trade.

🌐 ancientcyprus.com🕒 Nov-Mar 08:00-17:00; Apr-May 08:00-18:00; Jun-Aug 08:00-19:3💶

Amathus Port Buildings

Archaeological site of the port buildings of Amathus, Cyprus.

Amathus Ancient Port

Ancient port of Amathus, a city founded around 1100 BC on Cyprus.

Amathus necropolis

Necropolis of the ancient city of Amathus, founded around 1100 BC on Cyprus.

Loures

Beach near Amathus, Cyprus.

Agia Barbara municipal beach

Agia Barbara municipal beach near Amathus, Cyprus.

Vouppa Beach

Vouppa beach near Amathus, Cyprus.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Amathus located?

The ruins are located on the southern coast of Cyprus, about 11 km east of Limassol.

To which deity was Amathus dedicated?

The site was a major center for the cult of Aphrodite.

Are there sunken ruins in Amathus?

Yes, parts of the ancient harbor are now underwater and can be seen while snorkeling.

Can you visit the Amathus acropolis?

Yes, the climb to the acropolis also features a great view over the coast.

What is the largest stone vase find?

Huge stone vessels were found in Amathus; the original of the largest is now in the Louvre.

Ruins of Amathus: where is it located?

Ruins of Amathus is located in Cyprus.

Ruins of Amathus: what is there to see?

Highlights include Water Tank, Stone Water Pies, West Portico.

Ruins of Amathus: when is the best time to visit?