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Choirokoitia

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Historical site
—°4
Choirokoitia (Cyprus)

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Choirokoitia is an archaeological site in the Larnaca district and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of an aceramic Neolithic settlement in the entire Eastern Mediterranean. The settlement dates from the period between the 7th and 4th millennia BC and is renowned for its distinctive cylindrical houses built of stone and mudbricks. These circular structures stood closely together and were protected by a massive defensive wall. Excavations have shown that the inhabitants practiced agriculture, raised livestock, and possessed advanced craftsmanship for producing stone tools and jewelry. A unique feature of the settlement is the burial of the deceased beneath the floors of the houses. Choirokoitia was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1998, providing vital insights into the evolution of the first permanent human communities on the island. Several of the roundhouses have been reconstructed on-site to give visitors a vivid representation of prehistoric life.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Nov.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C141416192327303028242016
Rain mm7242231392116153071

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Choirokoitia is a Neolithic archaeological site open as an open-air museum. Visitors can see the reconstructed roundhouses and settlement remains.
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Typical hours
The site typically opens in winter from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., in summer until 7:30 p.m. It's advisable to check current times in advance.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site, but without flash indoors. The reconstructed houses offer particularly good subjects from various angles.
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Time needed
A visit to the site typically lasts between one and two hours. Those interested in the exhibition and details should allow more time.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the scenic village of Lefkara, known for its lacework. The nearby city of Larnaca with its sights is also easily reachable.
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Getting there
Choirokoitia is located near the A1 highway between Limassol and Larnaca, exit Choirokoitia. Parking is available right at the site entrance.
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Insider tip
Take time for the small on-site museum, which explains the artifacts and brings history to life. A morning visit is most comfortable as it is cooler.

Geography

Coordinates
34.79610, 33.34440

Facts

  • The settlement was discovered in 1934 by Porphyrios Dikaios.
  • The circular houses have an outer diameter of 2.3 to 9.2 meters.
  • Inhabitants cultivated grains such as wheat and barley.
  • Skeletal remains indicate an average life expectancy of 35 years.
  • The site was suddenly abandoned around 6000 BC.
  • It is estimated that 300 to 600 people lived in Choirokoitia.

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Sights in the town Choirokoitia (4)

Ekklisiastiko Museio🏛 museum

An ecclesiastical museum in the Choirokoitia community.

Choirokoitia Remains🏺 historical

Significant remains of a Neolithic settlement in Cyprus.

Reconstructed houses🏛 museum

Reconstructed prehistoric circular houses in Choirokoitia.

Basketry Museum🏛 museum

A museum about traditional basket weaving in Choirokoitia.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How old is Choirokoitia?
The settlement dates from the Neolithic age and is about 9,000 years old.
Why are the houses round?
Circular construction was typical for the architecture of this early era.
Can you see reconstructed houses?
Yes, at the entrance there are five reconstructions showing prehistoric life.
Is the site located on a slope?
Yes, the settlement stretches across a steep hill above the valley.
Are there toilets and a café?
Yes, there are basic facilities for visitors at the parking lot.
Choirokoitia: where is it located?
Choirokoitia is located in Cyprus.
Choirokoitia: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ekklisiastiko Museio, Choirokoitia Remains, Reconstructed houses.
Choirokoitia: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Nov.
Choirokoitia: why is it worth visiting?
Choirokoitia is an archaeological site in the Larnaca district and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of an aceramic Neolithic settlement in the entire Eastern Mediterranean.
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