Tamassos Archaeological Site

Tamassos is the site of an ancient city-kingdom in central Cyprus, located within the modern Nicosia District near the village of Politiko.

In antiquity Tamassos was known as a centre for copper production and as an independent city-kingdom during the Iron Age and Classical periods; archaeological remains include settlement and burial features.

The site shows continuity of occupation through Hellenistic and Roman times and has been investigated in archaeological surveys and excavations that document urban layouts and funerary remains.

Geographically the ruins lie inland in central Cyprus, within Nicosia District, and are accessed from nearby villages that serve as the modern points of arrival.

• Copper production: Tamassos was historically important for copper extraction; archaeologists have identified slag and mining-related remains in the area.

Tamassos is near contemporary Nicosia District towns; access is by road from Nicosia. Local roads connect the site to nearby villages; driving is the most practical option and local signage points toward excavation areas and visitor markers.

• Visit the tumulus fields early to avoid heat and to appreciate the scale of the ruins in soft light.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat - the archaeological park has little shade.
• Combine Tamassos with nearby ancient sites (like Marion) to see continuity of Cypriot Bronze Age remains across the island.