Ancient Soli
A city-kingdom site on Morphou Bay with a mosaic-floored basilica and a theatre, near the hilltop palace of Vouni.
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Soli was one of the ancient city-kingdoms of Cyprus, on the coast of Morphou Bay where copper from the hills behind was shipped out. What is exposed is a Roman theatre rebuilt into the hillside and a fifth-century basilica whose floor keeps large areas of mosaic, including a swan panel that is the site's best-known image, all under a modern shelter. A few kilometres west, on a hill above the sea, are the foundations of the palace of Vouni, a fifth-century BC complex with a view over the whole bay.
What you actually see
- The basilica mosaics - fifth-century floors including the swan panel, under a shelter.
- The theatre - a Roman theatre rebuilt into the slope above the site.
- Vouni palace - hilltop palace foundations a few kilometres west.
- Morphou Bay - the wide bay the ancient harbour served.
When to go
March to May and October to November are the best; the site is exposed and very hot in summer. Morning light is best for the mosaics. Winter rain can make the Vouni track awkward.
Honest expectations
Much of the city is unexcavated and what shows is limited relative to Salamis. Vouni requires a separate drive up a rough track and is foundations only. Bring ID for the crossing points.
Nearby
Morphou is inland nearby, and Kyrenia is east along the coast.
What to pack for Ancient Soli
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
