Dive, explore: Submerged ancient site dazzles off island of Cyprus
A visitor looks at the ruins as he swims at the underwater archaeological park of the ancient port of Amathus in Limassol, Cyprus, July 9, 2022. (Reuters Photo)
by Reuters
Jul 15, 2022 11:28 am


The first underwater archaeological park to be established just off the island of Cyprus takes visitors on a historical tour around one of the best preserved ancient harbors in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Visitors paddle on a stand up paddle board (SUP) at the underwater archaeological park of the ancient port of Amathus in Limassol, Cyprus July 9, 2022. (Reuters Photo)
Visitors swim at the underwater archaeological park of the ancient port of Amathus in Limassol, Cyprus, July 9, 2022. (Reuters Photo)

The now-submerged harbor lying off the ancient city-kingdom of Amathus was constructed between 312 B.C. and 294 B.C. when Cyprus was the focus of conflict between the two successors of Alexander the Great.

People swim at the underwater archaeological park of the ancient port of Amathus in Limassol, Cyprus, July 9, 2022. (Reuters Photo)
A general view of the underwater archaeological park of the ancient port of Amathus in Limassol, Cyprus, July 9, 2022. (Reuters Photo)

It was probably constructed as a naval base because of its narrow entrance, though experts say its combined commercial use cannot be dismissed either.

Visitors swim at the underwater archaeological park of the ancient port of Amathus in Limassol, Cyprus, July 9, 2022. (Reuters Photo)

Over the centuries, it has developed into a natural reef where marine life thrives.