Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Across the Green Line - Vuni Sarayu


Probably my favorite site in Cyprus, the Palace of Vuni is not served justice with my pictures - but I will still attempt to depict what a breathtaking and awe-inspiring place Vuni was, and continues to be.






Situated 250 meters above sea level, the Vuni Palace was built by a Persian sympathizer king. Initialy, the palace was built not only as a luxury acomodation, but as an advantageous spot to spy on the daily activities of Soli (a site I visited earlier) which can be seen across the harbor.

Although the architectural beginnings of the palace are Persian, after the Greeks overtook the palace it went under intense renovations. The remnants of the site indicate that there were at least three terraces that had extensive floor plans - private rooms, supply storage, multiple kitchens extensive Roman baths, reception halls and administrative sections were all included. 137 rooms have been accounted for thus far.

An elaborate cistern , courtyard and multiple fountains are also present. Findings from this site include gold and silver bracelets, silver cups, and hundreds of stamped coins from Marion, Kition, Lapithos and Paphos.


























The large cistern is shown above with the sprawling courtyard to the right. 

Part of the bathroom complex and water system. Although not labeled, it seems to be the central control system of water flow...or a human sized septic tank.























I cant get enough of this view!