Tenta, also known as Kalavasos-Tenta, is a Neolithic settlement which dates back to eighth millennium BC. According to local source, the locality of Tenta was named after St. Helena, mother of Constantine the Great, pitched her tent on the site when she returned to Cyprus in AD 327 from her trip to Jerusalem, bearing the Cross of the Crucifixion, before the construction of the Stavrovouni Monastery which is located close to the Tenta settlement.

There are relatively many similarities with the Khirokitia settlement. As mentioned by the first excavator of the two sites, Porphyrios Dikaios, the settlement of Tenta includes a small but densely populated to its center, village. The houses were built near the highest peak of a small natural hill and approximately 18 human skeletons were dug up from the site. In addition, a proportional large building discovered in the Western part of the settlement but archaeologists are still uncertain about its use.

References:

Comments

Your name



Address

A1, Larnaca, Cyprus
See all sites in Larnaca

Details

Founded: 800-700 BC
Category: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Cyprus

Rating

4.3/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Tom (Bozz) (17 months ago)
A fascinating neolithic village, located not far from main highway by car. There is another neolithic village nearby, that is worth visiting as well. There is a small lay-by for parking. The site is suited for those with accessibility issues. You have a dozen stone steps and then a dozen or so steeper wooden steps. I didn't see any toilet facilties next to the ticket booth.
Mária Schifter (2 years ago)
A nice little archeological site. A little bit "off the track" but very interesting and definitely worth a visit.
Chris Hughes (2 years ago)
A fascinating experience, well worth the entrance fee. Well maintained with lots of information boards and friendly, helpful staff. Please be aware that the site is not suitable for wheelchairs or anyone with walking difficulties. This is due to the steps leading to the elevated walkway.
Tyra (2 years ago)
Neat little site, free entry for students otherwise you gotta pay 2ish€ Shame most of the reconstruction work is overly noticeable. Either way! Worth giving it a look if you drive by.
Adrian Walter (5 years ago)
Very interesting Neolithic settlement with good explanation. Well worth the €2.50 entrance but note this - it's only open from 16th September to 15th April and from Monday to Friday 0830-1600 so it's not open weekends or in the holiday season.
Powered by Google

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Historic Site of the week

Kakesbeck Castle

Kakesbeck is one of the largest medieval fortifications in Münsterland and the oldest castle in Lüdinghausen. The imposingly grown complex originated in 1120 as a motte, a small hilltop tower castle. After numerous changes of ownership, the castle was extended onto two islands, but it was not until the 14th century that it underwent significant alterations and extensions under the von Oer family. The estate experienced its heyday in the middle of the 18th century, when it covered an area of almost one square kilometre and consisted of five further outer castles in addition to the core castle, which were secured by ramparts and moats.

The well-maintained condition of the castle today is thanks to the late Wilfried Grewing, the former lord of the castle. The foundation named after him has been particularly committed to preserving the property since 2020.