Once the largest city, the economic center of political and cultural life in Cyprus, Salamis (Salamis) is located near the modern Famagusta. This ancient settlement really played a huge role in the development of the whole island.

Scientists are inclined to think that the history of the city began in the days of the Trojan War, when on the coast of Famagusta was founded by Achaean Greek settlement. Over time, they moved inland, capturing the capital of Cypriot ALAS. Local residents had to look for another place to live. It was then that they established on the beach a new city, which later became known as Salamis.

According to another version the city was founded by one of the Trojan War Teucer, who was charged in the death of his brother Ajax. Because of this, he was cursed and banished from the home island of Salamis. Teucer settled in Cyprus and built a city, naming it in honor of his native country.

The first mention of Salamis appear in the VII century BC Over the entire period of its existence the city was ruled by different peoples: Egyptians, Persians, Romans. This village has always been a strategically important point - the one who managed to grab him, he could almost effortlessly capture and the whole island.

During the reign of Emperor Constantine Salamis it was rebuilt after the terrible earthquake that destroyed not only the city itself, but also led to the death of most of its inhabitants. The new town received the name of Constance. But Constance existed not so long. Constant pirate raids led to the fact that the city was almost completely destroyed, and people prefer to move to Famagusta.

Now, the Salamis ruins remained. But even they look big and majestic. So, there you can see the remains of the amphitheater, stadium, market square, and even public restrooms. In addition, it has survived and beautiful mosaics, which decorated many of the buildings of the city.