Deputy Culture Minister Vasiliki Kassianidou visited the Kourion archaeological site to review recently completed infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving visitor experience and accessibility, officials said.
The works include new access routes for people with disabilities, upgraded electrical systems and new lighting for the ancient theatre, as well as renovated backstage facilities for performers. Ongoing maintenance of protective shelters over mosaics and other remains is expected to finish in the coming months.
Kassianidou said significant resources were allocated in 2025 to protect the monument and modernize the site. The visitor centre has been fully renovated with a new shop, lecture hall and shaded rest areas, along with new restrooms. The project cost about €3.5 million.
Kourion is the second most‑visited archaeological site in Cyprus after Paphos, drawing tens of thousands of tourists and school groups each year. The ministry has also installed QR‑code digital guides at key points across the site.
Kassianidou said Kourion will host members of the EU’s Coreper I group in May as part of events linked to Cyprus’ EU Council presidency. The site will also be included in excursion options for informal ministerial meetings.
On security, she said the Department of Antiquities needs more site guards and is examining additional surveillance technologies in cooperation with research centres. “Illicit antiquities trafficking is not only a criminal offence but a serious destruction of our cultural heritage,” she said.
She added that accessibility varies across archaeological sites, but Kourion now includes pedestrian bridges, accessible points and new facilities for visitors with disabilities. A dedicated restroom has been added at the theatre, and temporary wooden platforms are installed during performances to accommodate wheelchair users. The ministry is also working with AbleBook on further accessibility studies.
The Department of Antiquities said it remains committed to preserving and presenting monuments in ways that serve both research and the wider public.
