Exploring a foгɡotteп Greek Sanctuary in Cyprus That Spans a Century.

Jan 28, 2024

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In the midst of the ancient wonders buried beneath the sands of time, archaeologists unearthing the secrets near ancient Tamassos have stumbled upon a remarkable discovery. Over a century has passed since the exact location of one of Cyprus’ most significant sanctuaries faded into obscurity, only to now emerge from the shadows of history.

Discoveries from Max Ohnefalsch-Richter’s 1885 excavations at the Sanctuary of Apollo in Frangkissa echo through time, weaving a narrative rich with archaeological intrigue. This sacred haven, adorned with a plethora of sculptures, underwent a rescue mission led by the German archaeologist, retrieving artifacts that eventually found homes in museums abroad, while the renowned Colossus of Tamassos graced the halls of the Cyprus Museum in Nicosia.

Regrettably, the sanctuary’s whereabouts slipped into the recesses of forgetfulness, eluding search efforts throughout the years. Now, guided by the expertise of archaeologists affiliated with two German universities, the sanctuary’s resurrection has become a reality. Dr. Matthias Recke from the University of Frankfurt and Field Director Dr. Philipp Kobusch from the University of Kiel spearheaded archaeological and geophysical surveys. Recent archival studies paved the way, narrowing down the sanctuary’s location to a distinct valley south of Pera Oreinis.

Through meticulous valley exploration, the exact site of the sanctuary has been unequivocally identified, the Department of Antiquities announced. The survey unveiled a concentrated trove of shards, alongside fragments of ancient sculptures and terracotta figurines, confined to a relatively defined area.

Collaborating with the University of Cyprus, a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey, directed by Apostolos Sarris, corroborated these findings. According to the survey, profound subterranean structures are exclusively situated in the valley segment highlighted during the archaeological investigation.

Preliminary analyses of the discoveries indicate the enduring occupation of the area since the Iron Age, witnessing utilization throughout the Archaic, Classical, and Hellenistic periods. The layers of history, unveiled by this archaeological odyssey, promise to reshape our understanding of this once-forgotten sanctuary and its profound cultural significance.

In the intricate tapestry of historical findings, a compelling link between the past and present has emerged with the discovery of a shoe fragment in 2020, intricately connected to the excavations of 1885. While the numerically smaller artifacts from the Roman and Byzantine eras bear the unmistakable scars of erosion, likely originating from a settlement downstream already known to archaeologists, the treasures hailing from earlier epochs tell a different tale.

These relics, attributed to the usage of the Sanctuary of Apollo, have endured remarkably well. Seemingly overlooked amidst the debris of the 1885 excavations, these fragments, particularly the numerous pieces of limestone figures and generously-sized terracotta statues, unveil the vestiges of an ancient sanctuary. The scarcity of corresponding finds in settlements and necropolises underscores the uniqueness of this discovery.

Notably, the figurative artifacts align precisely with materials excavated in 1885, now housed in museums across Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, and possibly Russia. A mere fraction of the 1885 finds remains in Cyprus, currently safeguarded within the Cyprus Museum.

Among the characteristic discoveries are diminutive chariots, equestrian figures, and warrior figurines in terracotta, alongside large hollow terracotta statues portraying donors at life size. Limestone crafted draped figures of votaries add to the archaeological ensemble, while fragments, especially those featuring horses or riders on horseback, contribute to the narrative.

Confirmation of the sanctuary’s significant location in this area is reinforced by the presence of an approximately 15-meter-long trial trench. Tracing its origin to the activities of 1885 and documented in the old excavation reports, this trench, precisely two feet wide, aimed to explore the adjacent terrain, discerning the exact boundaries of the sanctuary. Notably, remnants of ancient double-shelled masonry in the trench suggest an integral part of the sanctuary’s architectural design, offering a glimpse into the sacred structures that once stood tall in reverence to Apollo.

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