Choirokoitia

Guide to Exploring Choirokoitia: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Cyprus

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on visiting the ancient settlement of Choirokoitia! Located in the southeastern part of Cyprus, this extraordinary archaeological site is a must-see for anyone interested in history and culture. This guide will provide you with all the essential information to make the most of your visit to Choirokoitia.

Overview

Choirokoitia, also known as Khirokitia, was initially inhabited around 7000 BC, making it one of the oldest Neolithic settlements in the Mediterranean region. The site covers approximately 25 hectares and consists of nearly 300 well-preserved circular houses, storage facilities, workshops, and communal areas. In 1998, UNESCO added Choirokoitia to its list of World Heritage Sites, recognizing its outstanding universal value.

Getting There

  • By Car: The best way to reach Choirokoitia is by renting a car during your stay in Cyprus. From the capital city of Nicosia, it takes approximately 40 minutes to drive south along the A6 motorway and follow signs for Larnaka-Limassol (E751) towards Lemesos (Limassol). Exit at the sign for Choirokoitia, which is about 23 km from the Lemesos city center.

  • By Public Transportation: It’s possible to reach Choirokoitia by bus, but the service is infrequent, and you may need to change buses along the way. Consult the CYTA (Cyprus Public Transport Corporation) website or ask your hotel for information on bus schedules and routes.

Entry Fees & Opening Hours

  • Entry Fee: The entrance fee for Choirokoitia is €2.50 for adults, and free for children under 18 years old.

  • Opening Hours: The archaeological site is open every day from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, except on January 1st (New Year’s Day) and December 25th (Christmas Day).

What to See at Choirokoitia

  • Circular Houses: Explore the well-preserved circular houses that were once home to the Neolithic inhabitants of Choirokoitia. Notice the central hearth, storage areas, and benches around the perimeter.

  • Public Buildings: Visit the communal areas, such as the tholos (round, beehive-shaped structures) used for religious or ceremonial purposes. You can also see large storage buildings that housed food and other essential supplies.

  • Workshops: Discover the workshops where artisans created tools, pottery, and textiles to support the community’s needs.

  • Findings Museum: Visit the on-site museum, which showcases artifacts discovered during excavations at Choirokoitia, providing valuable insights into the lives of these ancient people.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: The site is relatively large and has uneven terrain, so wear comfortable walking shoes to make your visit more enjoyable.

  • Bring Water: It can get quite warm in Cyprus, especially during the summer months, so remember to bring water with you to stay hydrated while exploring Choirokoitia.

  • Use Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.

Nearby Attractions

After visiting Choirokoitia, consider spending some time exploring nearby attractions such as:

  • Kourion Ancient City: Located just 10 km away, Kourion is another significant archaeological site with an impressive amphitheater and Roman villa.

  • Lemesos (Limassol): The second largest city in Cyprus offers a wide variety of restaurants, shops, museums, and beaches to enjoy during your stay.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has given you valuable insights into the ancient settlement of Choirokoitia and helped you plan your visit. This extraordinary site is just one example of the rich history and culture that Cyprus has to offer, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking adventure and learning opportunities. Enjoy your exploration of Choirokoitia!