One of the eastern Mediterranean’s best preserved ancient harbours is now available to see as Cyprus has opened its first underwater archeological park, giving visitors the opportunity to look at history right below their feet.
The now submerged harbour was constructed between 311 and 312 BC, while Cyprus was the focus of conflict between the two successors of Alexander the Great, and lies off the ancient city-kingdom of Amathus.
The city was probably constructed as a naval base because of its narrow entrance, though experts have said that the possibility of its use for commercial purposes cannot be dismissed.
Over the centuries, and due to natural water levels rising, the old city has developed into a natural reef where an ecosystem exists and marine life thrives.
For the first time, Cyprus has opened up this part of history through the creation of an underwater archaeological park.
Minister for Transport, Yiannis Karousos said that the opening of this park was an amazing opportunity for the public to see ancient history and to see the marine environment.
“The surviving architectural remains and the special biodiversity of the marine area makes for a unique place to visit,” Karousos said.
“Where the public have the opportunity to join the ancient history and get acquainted with the amazing marine environment.”
This special project was carried out within the framework of the European Cross-Border Cooperation (CBC) program in conjunction with the Andikat project.
The Andikat project oversees diving routes in marine protected areas of the eastern Mediterranean Sea and the development of diving tourism in the region.
