DESCRIPTION:

The Palaestra dates to the 1st century A.D. It consists of a central courtyard surrounded by colonnades (Stoae). Various athletic games such ball games and wrestling took place in this area. The rooms that existed on the perimeter obviously served the needs of the athletes. At the northwest corner, a colossal stone jar contained water, serving the athletes’ needs.

The games constituted a significant social institution, which was introduced in Cyprus during the Hellenistic period and was maintained throughout the Roman period.