The Larnaca District Archaeological Museum, nestled in the vibrant city of Larnaca, Cyprus, is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts and historical wonders. Established in 1969, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of the region, tracing the development of the ancient city of Kition and the broader Larnaca District. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, this museum promises an enlightening and captivating experience.
The Larnaca District Archaeological Museum was inaugurated in 1969 and has since been a beacon of Cypriot heritage. Managed by the Department of Antiquities, the museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the archaeological finds from the region. The museum is conveniently located near the Kition-Bamboula archaeological site, allowing visitors to explore both the indoor exhibits and the nearby ancient ruins. The entrance fee is a modest €1.70, making it an accessible destination for all.
The museum's exhibits are meticulously arranged to take visitors on a chronological journey through the ages, starting from the Neolithic period and extending to the Roman era. Each room in the museum is dedicated to a specific era, providing a comprehensive overview of the region's historical development.
Room I is dedicated to the Neolithic and Chalcolithic periods, showcasing artifacts that date back to the earliest days of human settlement in Cyprus. Here, you'll find bone tools, flint knives, and jewelry made from picrolite and dentalia, all unearthed from the ancient site of Choirokoitia. One of the most striking displays in this room is the remains of a Neolithic inhabitant, buried in a contracted fetal position with a heavy millstone placed on the chest and head—a burial practice that hints at the beliefs and customs of the time.
Other notable items in Room I include stone vessels, stone idols, and pottery shards from various sites, including Kalavasos-Tenta and Pyla. The collection also features Red Polished and Black Polished ware, offering insights into the early pottery techniques and artistic expressions of ancient Cypriots.
Room II highlights the Mycenaean period, a time when Cyprus was heavily influenced by Mycenaean culture. The exhibits in this room include jugs, stemmed kylikes, and amphorae, all characterized by the distinctive Mycenaean pottery styles. Among the most intriguing items are a faience scepter bearing the cartouche of Pharaoh Horemheb and an opium pipe, indicating the trade connections between Cyprus and Egypt during the Late Bronze Age.
Visitors will also find Horns of Consecration, a symbol of religious significance, and various imported items that reflect the cultural exchanges of the period. The wall-mounted texts provide detailed information about the excavations at sites such as Tourapi, offering a deeper understanding of the archaeological context of these finds.
Room III is dedicated to the Cypro-Geometric and Cypro-Archaic periods, showcasing a diverse array of figurines, pottery, and limestone sculptures. Highlights include terracotta figurines of horse and rider, a charioteer, and a chariot racer, all found in tombs at Larnaca-Mnemata. The room also features a limestone head of a male wearing a diadem, dating back to 550-525 BC, and a funerary stele shaped like a lotus flower.
These artifacts provide a glimpse into the artistic and cultural developments of ancient Cyprus, illustrating the evolution of religious practices, burial customs, and everyday life during these periods.
Room IV offers a rich collection of items from the Cypro-Classical and Hellenistic periods, including imported Black-figure and Attic Red-figure pottery. Among the standout pieces are a bell-shaped crater depicting a symposium scene, an oinochoe with female musicians, and a cup with incised Cypro-syllabic signs.
The room also features locally made vases, such as a hydria and amphoriskoros, known for their symmetrical shapes. Additionally, visitors can admire ceramics from the Roman period, including Roman Red Slip ware and various terracotta figurines. The collection of copper and iron artifacts, such as weapons, tools, and ornaments, further enriches the narrative of Cyprus's ancient history.
The museum's coin collection includes a silver coin from Kition, dating back to the reign of King Azbaal (449-425 BC), as well as coins from the Larnaca Hoard. These coins provide valuable insights into the economic history of the region and the trade networks that connected ancient Cyprus with the wider Mediterranean world.
In addition to the coins, the museum houses an impressive array of limestone sculptures, including a female head with a conical head-cover and a statue of Priapos, dating to the 2nd or 3rd centuries AD. These sculptures reflect the artistic achievements of ancient Cypriots and their interactions with neighboring cultures.
The Larnaca District Archaeological Museum is more than just a repository of ancient artifacts; it is a gateway to the past, offering visitors a chance to explore the rich and diverse history of Cyprus. With its well-curated exhibits, informative displays, and accessible location, the museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the island's archaeological heritage. Whether you are a seasoned historian or a curious traveler, a visit to this museum will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the ancient civilizations that once thrived in this beautiful region.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
