The sea in Limassol is home to a hidden 'Atlantis,' a remnant of the glory of ancient times, when one of the largest kingdoms in Cyprus flourished on its shores.
It is located south of the ancient city of Amathus, in front of the city market, the ruins of which are visible under the sea today. It was built towards the end of the 4th century B.C. by Demetrios the Conqueror as a means of defense for the city, during a period of conflict with the Ptolemies of Egypt in their attempt to claim power in Cyprus.
Photo: Cyprus Aerial Photography
In addition to the harbor that is visible on the seabed, researchers have discovered that between the entrance to the archaeological site and the location of the main road today, there were areas where ships where towed to protect them from strong winds.
The existence of the harbor was short-lived. It quickly sunk into the sand, and thus Limassol acquired its own mini 'Atlantis.'
In 1985, the Agios Tychonas Community Council launched a campaign to raise funds to cover the cost of excavations at the Amathus archaelogical site and the sunken harbor. As soon as the shape of the harbor was revealed to a satisfactory level, a Dutch permanent resident of the area, Lucas Bernie, created 2 representations of its possible original form.
Approximately 1000 copes of these images were then printed and sold for 5 pounds each, with the proceeds aiming to boost the excavation fund. Approximately 100,000 pounds were collected.
Today, the ruins of this ancient harbor have been transformed into small biotopes, where several species of marine flora and fauna, including sea turtles, seek refuge. According to a decision made by the Department of Antiquities, an archaeological park will be set up in the area to showcase the sunken harbor.
* NOTE: The tributes of the Project "History of Limassol" present information that has emerged from historical research thus far. Any new data is embedded into the tributes, once it has been confirmed.
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