It is well-established and documented that large quantities of goods were transported by sea, not only imports and exports, but also for distribution amongst the coastal cities of the island of Cyprus. The long history of Cyprus is, inevitably, directly related to the sea. Paradoxically, however, the island's relationship with the sea is not well studied. The research will examine sailing activity around Cyprus and the modules of contacts amongst the coastal centers of the island. By applying multi/interdisciplinary approaches, the research will combine archaeological and historical material with Geographical Information Systems (GIS) in order to illustrate the maritime activity of the island. In terms of methodology, the study will combine a broad spectrum of evidence, which derive from the study of archaeological remains, written sources and cartography, along with information from ethno-archaeology and experimental archaeology.

 

For more information, you can go to the project's website

 

• Create a database of all the collected data and link them to GIS in order to create models of sailing activity.
• Test the created models and assumptions via experimental archaeology, namely sailing with a replica of an ancient ship (Kyrenia-Liberty).
• Identify patterns of internal trade between the coastal cities.
• Link the known harbours, ports and anchorages to a system of sea-routes.

 Hosting Organization: Archaeological Research Unit, University of Cyprus

 

Cyprus University of Technology -

Dr. Dimitrios Skarlatos