Limassol - Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates (Ylatis)

This site is located three kilometers west of Kourion, on the road to Paphos. Apollo Hylates, God of the Woodland, was the protector of the city of Kourion. The cult of Apollo was celebrated here from the eighth century B.C. to the A.D. fourth century. Excavations have also revealed other structures of this important sanctuary such as the bath complex, the pilgrim halls, the palaistra and a holy precinct.

The first points of interest are the steps of the display hall and old Paphos Gate and then the circular structure of the votive pit. This is where the priests used to put unwanted ritual gifts and such pits are a very rich source of archeological finds.

The narrow paved road then leads to the Temple of Apollo, part of which has now been restored and is especially impressive. Most of the rituals probably took place outside as the temple itself is quite small.

Visitors can also see the Priest's House, where there are remains of a mosaic as well as some pillars. The paved route then passes along the portico of the South Building and then down a flight of steps to the Palaestra. This central court was used for athletics and the site has plenty of facilities for sportsmen, including another complex of baths. Next to the Palaestra were the dormitories, parts of which are quite well preserved.