#salamis

residentparkyologist:

An Archaeological Wonder: Salamis

Salamis, Northern Cyprus

I had the opportunity to explore these amazing ruins while traveling around Cyprus.  You can wander around the archaeological site and easily imagine the bustling city it once was.  Salamis became the ancient capital of Cyprus as far back as 1100 BC and was occupied by a number of civilizations.  The site is approximately one square mile.  Parts of the site were built by Trajan and Hadrian, particularly after an earthquake in 76 AD.  The Romans built baths, mosaics, etc.  The city was destroyed by an invasion around 674 AD, forcing the occupants to the area around Famagusta.  The site was looted constantly until 1952 until 1952, when excavations by the Department of Antiquities began.  Personally, I think this site should be designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Site.