CYPRUS LAUNCHES FIRST UNDERWATER ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK AT ANCIENT PORT

 Reuters 14 July 2022

© Reuters/YIANNIS KOURTOGLOUCyprus launches first underwater archaeological park at ancient port

LIMASSOL, Cyprus (Reuters) - Cyprus has opened its first underwater archaeological park, offering visitors a glimpse of history at one of the eastern Mediterranean's best preserved ancient harbours.

© Reuters/YIANNIS KOURTOGLOUCyprus launches first underwater archaeological park at ancient port

The now-submerged harbour lying off the ancient city-kingdom of Amathus was constructed between 312/311 B.C. and 294 B.C., when Cyprus was the focus of conflict between two successors of Alexander the Great. It was probably constructed as a naval base because of its narrow entrance, though experts say its combined commercial use cannot be dismissed either.

© Reuters/YIANNIS KOURTOGLOUCyprus launches first underwater archaeological park at ancient port

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

© Reuters/YIANNIS KOURTOGLOUCyprus launches first underwater archaeological park at ancient port

(Reporting By Yiannis Kourtoglou; Writing by Michele Kambas; Editing by Alex Richardson)

© Reuters/YIANNIS KOURTOGLOUCyprus launches first underwater archaeological park at ancient port