The port of the kingdom of Kourion

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Topography

The kingdom of Kourion was found on the southwest shore of Cyprus. Its capital was at the cove of the bay west of Akrotiri peninsula. The first evidence of occupation in the area dates to Neolithic Period (at site of Sotira). Although a specific founder is not mentioned in ancient texts, Herodotus and Strabo attribute the establishment of the kingdom to colonists from Argos. The colonisation of the kingdom by Achaeans is further re-enforced by the presence of Mycenean tombs in the area. The city is well witnessed during Historical times through the archaeological remains and ancient written sources until the Arab raids, when the city was transferred to the area of Episkopi.

Research

The only underwater survey for the harbour remains was undertaken by J. Leonard (Leonard 1995, 137-138).

Moles

During Leonard’s investigation a silted breakwater was identified, with a number of fallen square blocks, which were recorded on the shore. The breakwater consists of two parts, the main one is about 68 m. long, narrowing toward its seaward end with maximum width of about 12m; the second one consists of square stones and rough rocks extending 30m. further.

Basins

The inner basin of the harbour was probably extended inland on the low sandy shore, to the south of the cliff, on top of which there are the ruins of the city. According to the researcher, rough sea conditions in the bay often covered and uncovered parts of the remains.

One more reason in making this place convenient for a harbour was the potential water supply, since even today brackish water can be found in this area of the shore. Another factor re-enforcing the use of this area as a harbour is the presence of at least three steps (1m. wide by 0.5m. high) on the side of the cliff, possibly representing the remains of a path leading to the town on the top.

Chronology

Concerning the chronology, Leonard places the site among the Roman harbour network of Cyprus. In addition Strabo was the only one who mentioned the anchorage(?). Due to the unique position of this point on the sea-route on the south coast of the island, the geomorphology of the area, and the short distance between the shore and the city, its possible that the bay was in use for maritime activity from earlier on than the Roman times.

Analysis

Of course this hypothesis can only be proved after further detailed investigation. It is quite possible that the harbour was abandoned when Episkopi succeeded Kourion, during the Byzantine Period. Mediaeval travellers often mention the anchorage of the new town on their way to Limassol.

Bibliography

Leonard R.J., 1995, "Evidence for Roman Ports, Harbours and Anchorages in Cyprus", in Karageorghis V.-Michaelides D., Proceedings of the International Symposium Cyprus and the Sea, University of Cyprus-Cyprus Ports Authority, Nicosia

Author

Θεοδούλου Θ. / Theodoulou, Th.