Polish researchers identify ancient monumental temple in Cyprus

A team of researchers led by Anna Kordas from the University of Warsaw has identified the remains of a monumental building near the ancient city of Kourion on the southern coast of Cyprus. The structure, estimated to have been built in the late 1st century BCE, stood approximately 5.87 meters high.

The discovery stems from 48 limestone fragments, including column parts and cornice elements, originally found in 1997. While initially unclear if the pieces belonged to a building or a local quarry, recent analysis using photogrammetry and digital modeling has allowed researchers to reconstruct the original layout. The findings suggest the site may have been a rare example of a temple located outside a traditional urban center.

The international research team included specialists from the University of Warsaw, the Vienna University of Technology, and the Wrocław University of Science and Technology. Their results have been published in the ‘American Journal of Archaeology’ much to the benefit of understanding Roman sacred architecture in the region.