DESCRIPTION:

Around 1200 BC, a sanctuary of monumental architecture was constructed here (Temple 1: shown in red as no.1). This was an open-air sanctuary surrounded by a wall, with a Holy-of-Holies at its western part. It was built in the area of a Sacred Garden, which existed there from the early 13th century BC. Finds from Temple 1 imply that the Great Goddess, the goddess of fertility, was worshipped there.

To the north of Temple 1, there is a group of rooms where copper working activities were detected (shown in green as no.2). The workshop area communicated directly with Temple 1, implying that the temple authorities controlled copper working and the production of metal objects. It appears that this precious metal was under the protection of the Goddess.

Along the south external face of Temple 1, incised drawings of ships can be seen. Ancient Kition was close to the sea and was endowed with a large port, which should not in fact been too far from this area. Worshippers may have incised these pictures, in order to secure the protection of the Great Goddess for their sea voyage.