Ancient Amathus is an archaeological site 11 km east of Limassol centre, on Cyprus’s southern coast. Its hilltop Temple of Aphrodite, remains from several historical periods and coastal setting make it a rewarding day trip from Limassol.
- Location: Lemesos (Limassol) region, east of the city centre
- Opening pattern: open 24 hours
- Standard entry: €2.50
Where is Ancient Amathus?
Amathous Archaeological Site lies in the Lemesos region, 11 km east of Limassol centre. The ancient city-kingdom occupies a coastal setting, with the Acropolis rising above the lower town. Visit Cyprus describes Amathus as one of Cyprus’s significant ancient city-kingdoms.
From Le Village Hotel rooms, the site is about 10.8 km away. Its position on Limassol’s eastern side also makes it a natural pairing with time along the coast.
What remains at the Amathus archaeological site?
The site brings together remains from different periods, with the Temple of Aphrodite on the hill of the Acropolis as a key landmark. Finds from tombs in both the Acropolis and lower town date to the Archaic, Roman and Christian periods.
Five early Christian basilicas are also represented among the ruins. The site is linked in local myth to Theseus, who, according to the story related by Visit Cyprus, left the pregnant Ariadne in the care of local women.
How do you get from central Limassol to Ancient Amathus?
You can travel east from central Limassol by car or bus.
A third-party bus guide identifies Limassol route 30 and two stops serving the site: Amathountos Ave. - Ag. Varvara Church and Amathountos Ave. - Ancient Amathounta. Its displayed Sunday times are not confirmed against an official operator timetable, so verify service details with the bus operator before travelling.
If you’re spending more time in the city, a walking route through central Limassol covers a different way to structure your day.
How much time should you plan for a visit?
Plan your visit around the two main areas: the lower town and the Acropolis hill, where the Temple of Aphrodite stands. The site’s historical remains extend across both, so allow time to look around rather than treating it as a single monument.
Access is partial for wheelchair users: the lower town can be viewed by wheelchair, and disabled toilets are available. If access requirements shape your plans, confirm the current arrangements with the Department of Antiquities before setting out.
What can you combine with Ancient Amathus on the eastern coast?
The archaeological site’s location east of Limassol centre lends itself to pairing the ruins with time on the coastline. For a beach-focused plan, the guide to Limassol beaches and access from the city can help you consider coastal stops alongside the ancient site.
When is Ancient Amathus open, and what does entry cost?
It is closed on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Greek Orthodox Easter Sunday.
The standard entrance fee is €2.50. Organised groups of more than 10 people receive a 20% reduction. Special entry cards covering ancient monuments and museums cost €8.50 for one day, €17.00 for three days or €25.00 for seven days; each card can be used once at each museum or ancient monument.
Before you go, check the official site before you go with the Department of Antiquities, which manages Cyprus’s ancient monuments.
FAQs
Where is Ancient Amathus?
It is in the Lemesos region, 11 km east of Limassol centre, in a coastal setting.
What is the main landmark at the site?
The Temple of Aphrodite stands on the hill of the Acropolis. The ruins also include remains of five early Christian basilicas.
Can wheelchair users visit Ancient Amathus?
Access is partial. The lower town can be viewed by wheelchair, and disabled toilets are available.
How much is admission?
The standard entrance fee is €2.50. Organised groups of more than 10 people receive a 20% reduction.