In a remarkable archaeological breakthrough, researchers in Cyprus have rediscovered a long-lost sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god Apollo, 140 years after its initial discovery. Located in the ancient city of Tamassos, this sanctuary is believed to have been a significant center of worship and cultural activity in the ancient world. The find is being hailed as one of the most important archaeological discoveries in recent years on the island.
Under the direction of a group of archaeologists from the Universities of Cyprus and Münster, Germany, the excavation uncovered a variety of structures and relics that had been concealed for millennia. Two enormous marble statues, one of Apollo and the other probably of a female deity or priestess, are among the most remarkable finds. Despite their age and lengthy internment, the nearly life-sized statues are reported to be in very good condition.
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Along with the statues, the team discovered pieces of architecture, pieces of columns, and elaborately carved capitals that attest to the sanctuary's magnificence. The sanctuary was likely used for worship, sacrifices, and perhaps festivals honoring Apollo, the god of light, music, healing, and prophecy, according to pottery fragments and ceremonial items discovered on the site.
Near what is now Politiko village, Tamassos was a thriving city-kingdom in the first millennium BCE. In ancient Cyprus's political and religious life, it was extremely important. The recently rediscovered sanctuary attests to the extensive worship of Apollo on the island and validates historical reports that Tamassos was a major spiritual center.
This site was originally documented in the 19th century by German archaeologist Max Ohnefalsch-Richter but its precise location had since been lost to time. Thanks to modern excavation techniques and international collaboration, the sanctuary has now been brought back into historical focus.
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Both historians and archaeologists are excited about the rediscovery since it could provide additional insight into the religious rituals, artistic creations, and building designs of the ancient Cypriots. It also highlights Cyprus's significance as a Mediterranean cultural crossroads where Greek and Near Eastern customs coexist.
As excavation and analysis continue, experts hope the site will eventually be opened to the public, providing a new window into the island’s ancient past and boosting cultural tourism in the region.
Under the direction of a group of archaeologists from the Universities of Cyprus and Münster, Germany, the excavation uncovered a variety of structures and relics that had been concealed for millennia. Two enormous marble statues, one of Apollo and the other probably of a female deity or priestess, are among the most remarkable finds. Despite their age and lengthy internment, the nearly life-sized statues are reported to be in very good condition.
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Along with the statues, the team discovered pieces of architecture, pieces of columns, and elaborately carved capitals that attest to the sanctuary's magnificence. The sanctuary was likely used for worship, sacrifices, and perhaps festivals honoring Apollo, the god of light, music, healing, and prophecy, according to pottery fragments and ceremonial items discovered on the site.
Near what is now Politiko village, Tamassos was a thriving city-kingdom in the first millennium BCE. In ancient Cyprus's political and religious life, it was extremely important. The recently rediscovered sanctuary attests to the extensive worship of Apollo on the island and validates historical reports that Tamassos was a major spiritual center.
This site was originally documented in the 19th century by German archaeologist Max Ohnefalsch-Richter but its precise location had since been lost to time. Thanks to modern excavation techniques and international collaboration, the sanctuary has now been brought back into historical focus.
Read more: 6 Indian villages that are cooler than most cities
Both historians and archaeologists are excited about the rediscovery since it could provide additional insight into the religious rituals, artistic creations, and building designs of the ancient Cypriots. It also highlights Cyprus's significance as a Mediterranean cultural crossroads where Greek and Near Eastern customs coexist.
As excavation and analysis continue, experts hope the site will eventually be opened to the public, providing a new window into the island’s ancient past and boosting cultural tourism in the region.
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