Archaeologists have recently concluded a six-week excavation in Peyia, Cyprus, unearthing compelling evidence of a significant Byzantine harbour dating back to the 6th century AD. This period aligns with the reign of Emperor Justinian, a notable era of imperial expansion and construction. The project, a collaborative effort involving the Antiquities Department of Cyprus and New York University, has yielded a remarkable array of artefacts. Most notably, over 700 kilograms of fragmented Late Roman amphorae have been recovered, offering unprecedented insights into the region's past. These findings illuminate its crucial role as a nexus for maritime trade and extensive religious construction.
The ancient port of Peyia is believed by archaeologists to have been pivotal in facilitating the delivery of marble for the construction of basilicas at nearby Cape Drepano. The sheer volume of recovered amphorae fragments underscores the substantial logistical operations undertaken during this era. These vessels, predominantly from the 6th century AD, are not merely utilitarian containers; their surfaces bear 68 inscribed markings, known as *dipinti*, rendered in red ink. These inscriptions are proving invaluable for scholars seeking to decipher the intricacies of ancient trade routes, administrative practices, and the economic landscape of Late Antiquity. Researchers are meticulously cataloguing these fragments, with Professor Stella Demesticha of the University of Cyprus leading this crucial research aspect.
Beyond the immediate vicinity of the harbour, the excavation team also conducted extensive surface surveys at the Peyia necropolis, a sprawling burial ground also identified by local names such as Agios Georgios and Maniki. This area has been a focus of archaeological interest for some time, building upon the significant discovery of a Hellenistic tomb in 2018. The ongoing investigation of this tomb reveals a prolonged period of use, spanning from the 1st century BC to the 5th century AD, suggesting a continuous cultural and societal presence in the locale over many centuries.
The interdisciplinary nature of this excavation program is a testament to its comprehensive approach. Specialists from various institutions, including the University of Cyprus, the Cyprus Institute, and the University of Warsaw, are contributing their expertise. Professor Jolanta Mlynarczyk is examining tomb pottery, while Dr. Rebecca Gerdes of Cornell University is analysing Roman cooking vessels using organic residue analysis. Advanced techniques, such as X-ray fluorescence for metal artifact analysis, are also being employed. The study of human skeletal remains and animal bones further contributes to painting a more complete picture of life in antiquity.
The implications of these discoveries are far-reaching, providing concrete evidence of the Byzantine Empire's strategic interests in Cyprus. The inscribed amphorae, sourced from diverse regions, offer a tangible record of the extensive trade networks that sustained these imperial endeavours. Ongoing analysis promises to refine our understanding of the logistical challenges and achievements involved in constructing such port facilities. As research progresses, these ancient fragments are poised to significantly enrich our comprehension of Cyprus's vital role as a maritime and religious centre in the ancient world.