The temple front
Rebuilt columns.
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The Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates was one of the main religious centres of ancient Cyprus, about 2.5 km west of the ancient city of Kourion on the road to Paphos. Apollo was worshipped here as god of the woodlands, and its best known sight today is the restored temple front with its columns against the sky. Worship began here as early as the 8th century BC and continued until the 4th century AD. The site changed much over time, and most of what stands today belongs to restorations of the 1st century AD. It first consisted of a temple, a circular monument perhaps used for processions around a sacred grove, and an archaic altar. In Roman times the South and North Buildings were added, perhaps for votive offerings or visitors. You enter between walls and along paved paths, passing rows of columns and the remains of baths before reaching the temple itself at the edge of the site. Part of its front has been rebuilt and has become the emblem of the place. From the edges the view runs to the south coast and the green woodland around the site. It is 16 km in a straight line from Limassol. A car is best, and it pairs naturally with Kourion on one visit. Shade is scarce, so morning or late afternoon works best. Wear shoes suited to the stones, and bring water and a hat in summer.
Rebuilt columns.
From Roman times.
From the edges of the site.
On the Paphos road, about 2.5 km west of Kourion
One source says so, but we found no recent official tariff, so ask at the gate.
It probably comes from the Greek for forest, as Apollo was worshipped here as god of the woodlands.