Ancient Salamis
The largest ancient city in Cyprus: marble columns of the gymnasium, a theatre, Roman baths and basilicas right by the sea.
Legend says Teucer, a hero of the Trojan War, founded it. For over a thousand years Salamis was the island’s main city; after earthquakes and raids in the 7th century people moved to Famagusta.
The gymnasium with its colonnaded court is best preserved, with baths and mosaic fragments next to it. The Roman theatre held thousands of spectators.
The ruins spread among pines, with a beach right next door.
Tips
- In summer arrive at opening time — little shade.
- A car helps connect the different areas.
- Nearby: St Barnabas Monastery and the Royal Tombs.
Getting there
9 km north of Famagusta, about an hour from Kyrenia.
Prices, opening hours and entry rules change — check official sources before you travel.
Nearby
Famagusta and the eastSt Barnabas MonasteryA monastery by the tomb of the Apostle Barnabas, founder of the Church of Cyprus — now an icon and archaeology museum.
Famagusta and the eastOthello CastleFamagusta’s harbour citadel, linked with Shakespeare’s “Othello”, set “in a seaport in Cyprus”.
Famagusta and the eastFamagusta Old Town and Lala Mustafa Pasha MosqueA fortress town behind Venetian walls: the Gothic St Nicholas Cathedral, ruins of dozens of churches and quiet lanes.