Tamassus
Tamassus, an ancient town located in central Cyprus along the Pediaeus River, is notable for its historical significance and rich archaeological heritage. The settlement thrived due to its proximity to valuable copper mines, which were recognized for their medicinal properties in ancient times, as noted by the geographer Strabo. Tamassus is often associated with the legendary Temese mentioned in Homer's *Odyssey*, although its exact identification remains debated among scholars. The town was once ruled by King Pasicyprus, who sold his kingdom around 340 BCE to Pumiathon of Citium, only to have it later taken by Alexander the Great and given to another ruler.
Tamassus is recognized for its early Christian heritage, being home to the first Christian community in Cyprus and its first bishop, Heraclidius. Archaeological evidence suggests that a sanctuary dedicated to Apollo existed in the area, with significant artifacts like the Chatsworth Apollo statue found nearby. Additionally, remnants of a temple dedicated to Aphrodite have been uncovered, showcasing a history of reconstruction following various historical events, including the Ionian revolt against the Persians. Excavations have also revealed royal tombs containing bronze objects, highlighting the area's cultural and historical wealth.
Subject Terms
Tamassus
Tamassos (Politiko)
A town in central Cyprus, on the left bank of the river Pediaeus. The settlement existed from an early date owing to the proximity of mines, which produced, according to Strabo, sulphate of copper and copper rust, useful for their medicinal properties. (This place may be the Temese mentioned in Homer's Odyssey, although recent studies support an alternative view, quoted by Strabo, that Temese was in south Italy). King Pasicyprus of Tamassus in Cyprus sold his kingdom c 340 to Pumiathon of Citium (Larnaca), and retired to the city of Amathus; soon afterward however, Alexander the Great took Tamassus away from Pumiathon and gave it to Pnytagoras, king of Salamis. Tamassus was stated by Hierocles to have possessed both the first Christian community in Cyprus and its earliest bishop, a certain Heraclidius.
A sanctuary of Apollo, of which the existence is suggested by inscriptions, has been provisionally identified at a site northeast of the town, where a bronze statue of the god (the Chatsworth Apollo, now in the British Museum) was discovered. Beside an industrial quarter, traces of a temple of Aphrodite are also to be seen. Dating from the archaic period, the building was frequently damaged and reconstructed, notably on the occasion of the Ionian revolt against the Persians (499/8), and again in the times of Alexander the Great and Ptolemy I Soter (d. 283/2). At some date during the Hellenistic Age an earthquake appears to have shattered the shrine. Two large altars have been discovered beside it; the earlier of these was constructed c 500, but votive objects in the area date back to the seventh century. Excavations have also revealed two imposing royal tombs; recent finds in one of them included numerous bronze objects, including a horse blinker with a magic ivory eye.