When you think of the island of Cyprus, dreamy beaches, turquoise waters and Mediterranean flair probably immediately come to mind. But Cyprus has much more to offer, especially for those interested in history and culture. One of the most impressive historical highlights is undoubtedly the ancient city of Salamis.
Salamis, located in the east of the island, was once an important city during the ancient times and is now one of the most important archaeological sites in Cyprus. The history of Salamis dates back to the 11th century BC and the city experienced its heyday during the Roman and Byzantine eras.
To explore the historical treasures of Salamis, it is recommended to go there early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Upon entering the site, you will immediately be fascinated by the impressive size and scale of the ruins. You can literally feel the past come to life.
Buildings in the ancient city of Salamis
An absolute highlight is the well-preserved amphitheater. With a capacity of around 15,000 spectators, it was once a place for cultural events and gladiator fights. Sitting down on the old stone rows and imagining how people gathered here centuries ago is an unforgettable experience.
Another impressive structure is the Gymnasium, which once served as an educational center. Here you can stroll through the remains of the columns and marble floors and imagine how students once walked the halls. The excavation site also includes an impressive basilica, an agora, and numerous dwellings that offer a glimpse into life at the time.
After exploring the historical sites, a stroll along the nearby beach is a great option. The golden sand and crystal clear water invite you to take a refreshing break. Here you can review the impressions of the ancient city of Salamis and enjoy the beauty of nature.
A visit to the ancient city of Salamis in Cyprus is a journey into the past and an absolute must for every culture and history lover. The impressive ruins tell a story of the former greatness and importance of this ancient city. Whether you are interested in the architecture, the history or just the feeling of nostalgia, Salamis will definitely not disappoint you.
Guided tours
If you want to visit Salamis, there are several guided tours available on TripAdvisor. These tours offer a convenient way to get to Salamis as the pickup is usually right at the hotel in Agia Napa.
Some of the tours include not only a visit to Salamis, but also other attractions in Northern Cyprus. The ancient city is part of many day trips, which also include the old town of Famagusta and the port city of Kyrenia. One particularly recommended tour is Andreas’ tour, offered by TUI. This tour not only offers the opportunity to explore the fascinating ruins of Salamis, but also to visit the old town of Famagusta and the port city of Kyrenia.
Discover Salamis on your own
If you want to explore the ancient city on your own, you have several options to get there. One option is to take the bus to the Deryneia border crossing and from there continue to Salamis. To get to the Deryneia border crossing from Agia Napa, you can take bus line 501. The bus stop is called Deryneia (Green Line). The bus leaves approximately every hour. You can download the exact schedules on the website of the bus company OSEA. The return journey is by bus line 502.
At the border there is one passport control on the Greek Cypriot side and a second passport control on the Northern Cypriot side. For German citizens the identity card or a passport is sufficient. No visa is required. It is important to note that Northern Cyprus does not have a well-developed bus network. Therefore, it is best to ask the border official to call a taxi to get from the border to Salamis.
Alternatively, you can also travel by car. However, it should be noted that most car rental companies do not allow you to drive to North Cyprus. Also, a separate car insurance for €25 is required for Northern Cyprus. The ancient city of Salamis is located directly on the sea near the town of Yeni Boğaziçi. In any case, it is advisable to get information about the sights beforehand with a guide.
