Choirokoitia
Location: Choirokoitia, Cyprus
Year of Inscription: 1998
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared.
Overview: Choirokoitia is an archaeological site located in the Larnaca district of Cyprus. It contains the remains of a prehistoric settlement that dates back to the Neolithic period, between 7000 and 4000 BCE. The site is considered to be one of the most important and best-preserved examples of prehistoric human settlements in the eastern Mediterranean region.
Prominent Features: The site of Choirokoitia covers an area of about 75 acres and contains the remains of circular dwellings, walls, and other structures that were built using mud-brick and stone. The settlement was arranged in a circular pattern and was surrounded by a defensive wall. The site also includes evidence of early farming practices, such as stone tools, grinding stones, and agricultural implements.
History: The settlement at Choirokoitia was first discovered in 1934 by British archaeologist Porphyrios Dikaios. Excavations began in 1936 and continued intermittently until the 1970s.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can enjoy a variety of activities at Choirokoitia, including: Visiting the Museum: The Choirokoitia Museum is located on the site and contains exhibits and artifacts related to the prehistoric settlement. Guided Tours: Visitors can take a guided tour of the site, which includes information about the history and culture of the Neolithic period. Picnicking: The site has several picnic areas where families can enjoy a meal while surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.
Fun Fact: Choirokoitia is thought to be one of the earliest known human settlements in the eastern Mediterranean region. It is believed that the settlement was inhabited for about 1,000 years before it was abandoned for unknown reasons.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Choirokoitia is 2.50 euros for adults and 1.25 euros for children.
How to Reach It: Choirokoitia is located about 30 kilometers south of Nicosia and 50 kilometers east of Limassol. Visitors can reach the site by: By Car: The site is easily accessible by car, with a well-maintained road network connecting it to major cities in Cyprus. By Bus: There are several bus services that connect major cities in Cyprus with Choirokoitia. The journey takes about 1-2 hours from Nicosia and 2-3 hours from Limassol.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in and around Choirokoitia, including: Vasilikos House: This is a traditional guesthouse located in the nearby village of Tochni. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a swimming pool. Lito House: This is a holiday home located in the heart of Choirokoitia village. It offers a fully equipped kitchen, a living room, and a private garden with barbecue facilities. It's also an easy day trip from Nicosia and Limassol
Next Stop: Painted Churches in the Troodos Region
Year of Inscription: 1998
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared.
Overview: Choirokoitia is an archaeological site located in the Larnaca district of Cyprus. It contains the remains of a prehistoric settlement that dates back to the Neolithic period, between 7000 and 4000 BCE. The site is considered to be one of the most important and best-preserved examples of prehistoric human settlements in the eastern Mediterranean region.
Prominent Features: The site of Choirokoitia covers an area of about 75 acres and contains the remains of circular dwellings, walls, and other structures that were built using mud-brick and stone. The settlement was arranged in a circular pattern and was surrounded by a defensive wall. The site also includes evidence of early farming practices, such as stone tools, grinding stones, and agricultural implements.
History: The settlement at Choirokoitia was first discovered in 1934 by British archaeologist Porphyrios Dikaios. Excavations began in 1936 and continued intermittently until the 1970s.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can enjoy a variety of activities at Choirokoitia, including: Visiting the Museum: The Choirokoitia Museum is located on the site and contains exhibits and artifacts related to the prehistoric settlement. Guided Tours: Visitors can take a guided tour of the site, which includes information about the history and culture of the Neolithic period. Picnicking: The site has several picnic areas where families can enjoy a meal while surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.
Fun Fact: Choirokoitia is thought to be one of the earliest known human settlements in the eastern Mediterranean region. It is believed that the settlement was inhabited for about 1,000 years before it was abandoned for unknown reasons.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Choirokoitia is 2.50 euros for adults and 1.25 euros for children.
How to Reach It: Choirokoitia is located about 30 kilometers south of Nicosia and 50 kilometers east of Limassol. Visitors can reach the site by: By Car: The site is easily accessible by car, with a well-maintained road network connecting it to major cities in Cyprus. By Bus: There are several bus services that connect major cities in Cyprus with Choirokoitia. The journey takes about 1-2 hours from Nicosia and 2-3 hours from Limassol.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in and around Choirokoitia, including: Vasilikos House: This is a traditional guesthouse located in the nearby village of Tochni. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a swimming pool. Lito House: This is a holiday home located in the heart of Choirokoitia village. It offers a fully equipped kitchen, a living room, and a private garden with barbecue facilities. It's also an easy day trip from Nicosia and Limassol
Next Stop: Painted Churches in the Troodos Region