During antiquity Cyprus was divided into city-kingdoms, in which settlements were being organized. The ancient city of Curium was one of the most impressive kingdoms of the island and along with the city of Amathus consisted the today’s city of Limassol. Situated at the west coast of Limassol, Curium is estimated to have been built in the late 13th and early 12th century BC, with remains that are still visible in the area of Episkopi.
The city, developed on the hills of the area, is considered to have been inhabited primarily by Mycenaeans-Argives, who seem to have developed this great kingdom. Since then, Curium has been an important historical area with many impressive monuments including the ancient theater (originally built in the 2nd century BC), the House of Eustolios and the Sanctuary of Apollo.
Despite its glorious course, the end of the great kingdom of Curium was meant to be brought by a great earthquake. On July 21st of 365 AD, a devastating earthquake struck the area, causing irreparable extensive damages, both in Cyprus and in areas of the southern Aegean and Egypt. Subsequent seismic vibrations led to the final destruction of the city, leaving the area completely desolate for many centuries.
Today, southwest of the village of Episkopi, the remains of the ancient city are preserved, attracting the interest of dozens of visitors every day. At the same time the ancient theater of the city frequently comes alive, since it hosts many remarkable performances, such as ancient tragedies and concerts, bringing the audience to a special coexistence between the past and the present. Find out more about the Curium archaeological site here.
Source of information: "Limassol, Journey to the Times of a City", (2006)
* 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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