Across the Green Line - Soli

The Berlin Wall might be history...but the Green Line still exists on the island of Cyprus. As mentioned in my Lefkara post, Cyprus is de facto partitioned into north and south regions - more than half of the island under the order of the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Cyprus controlling the Northern coast. The Green Line - patrolled by UNFICYP - was established after Turkish invasion of the island in 1974.

Because of the tension on both sides of the island concerning the Green line (and the Turkish invasion in general) Cypriots are not permitted to cross into the North. Because of this tension, tourism to the North is rare, but not unheard of - so I was lucky enough to go on a day excursion to some very important sites overlooking the sea - with the coast of Turkey looming on the horizon.

To give a very brief history of Soli - the site dates back to the 11th century BC and was the capital under the Aepean King Philicypros. The king chose this location because of its sweeping views, lush vegetation and protected harbor. Alas, such a wonderful place cannot be left untouched for long - it was captured by the Persians in 498 BC, became an important Orthodox center during the early ages of Christianity, and eventually lost its importance over time and was destroyed by the Arab attacks during the 7th century.

Excavations at Soli have revealed the remains of a theatre, palace ruins, temples, an agora, church and a necropolis. All of these structures date back to different time periods - giving a very rich display of the many cultural influences and occupations of the site.

The mosaics, although somewhat faded, are beautiful representations of a variety of flora and fauna, interrupted periodically by the fallen drums of colossal columns. The Roman theater is heavily restored in order to permit theatrical performances to use the site - but the view from the theater is spectacular, carved into the hill looking over the city and facing out towards the sea.

Contemporary theater-going locals...must be a drama.