Not far from Makronisos - the most famous beach resort of Ayia Napa - has at least the same name famous rock tombs. This place has become famous and has become popular thanks to built in the XVI century monastery of the Holy Virgin Mary. And, according to one version, it was chosen for burial because it was there for about 500 years before the first tomb was discovered icon of the Virgin.

The cave complex Makronisos was created in Greco-Roman period and consists of 19 small tombs carved directly into the rock, and the sanctuary, built of rough stones. And next to them quarries are located. Almost all the caves have the same layout: from the entrance to the stage led him, and almost every one of them is a rectangular little room, the walls of which there are three or four stone benches. Entrance is usually covered by a slab carved from limestone.

In the middle of the XIX century tombs interested in "black archeologists" who simply looted many burial. But large-scale official excavations began in this place only at the end of the last century, namely in 1989. Archaeologists have found that the bodies of the dead were placed in sarcophagi, which were made out of clay, and only then were placed in the crypt. According to Greek tradition next diluted ceremonial pyres

Despite the fact that the territory Makronisos still being excavated, the entrance to the tombs is completely free. And they are protected by the International Archaeological Society.