Ancient & Historical Sites in Larnaca

This magnificent 18th-century Ottoman aqueduct stands as one of Larnaca's most photogenic landmarks. Commissioned by Ottoman Governor Bekir Pasha in 1746 and completed in 1748, it was built using classical Roman architectural techniques. The aqueduct solved Larnaca's chronic freshwater problems by transporting water from springs 15km away through an ingenious system combining underground channels (8km) and overland arches (7km). The surviving 75 arches, known locally as "Kamares," stretch impressively along the old Limassol road. Some historians believe it may have been built atop or using stones from an earlier Roman structure. The aqueduct remained operational until the 1950s and now serves as a popular backdrop for evening concerts and cultural events, beautifully illuminated at night.

The sparse but significant ruins of Kition (Area II) represent what remains of the original city-kingdom established around 1300 BCE. The Phoenicians rebuilt the city around 1000 BCE, and their influence is evident in the excavated structures. Visitors can see impressive cyclopean walls constructed from massive limestone blocks, foundations of ancient temples dedicated to the goddess Astarte, and remains of copper workshops that highlight Kition's importance in Bronze Age trade. The site includes five temples and evidence of sophisticated urban planning. Much of ancient Kition lies beneath modern Larnaca, making this archaeological area particularly precious. The birthplace of the Stoic philosopher Zeno of Citium (334 BCE), founder of the famous Stoic school of philosophy in Athens.