Archaeological findings clarify habitation phases at Kition-Pamboula

In September 2026, the French Archaeological Mission conducted an excavation at the Kition-Pamboula site in Cyprus, focusing on Sector 11. The Department of Antiquities announced on Monday that the mission successfully clarified the chronological sequence of habitation phases in this area, building upon research from the 2025 excavation season.

The research revealed that what were previously classified as six main habitation phases now include several distinct sub-phases. The earliest identified layer, Phase I, dates to the Cypro-Archaic period, specifically between the 8th and 7th centuries BC. This is followed by Phase II, which represents a period of occupation or light resettlement for industrial purposes, occurring at the transition between the late Cypro-Archaic II and early Cypro-Classical periods (late 6th to early 5th century BC). Officials noted that this second phase is characterized by the opportunistic reuse of earlier, partially collapsed building materials and existing standing walls.

The findings provide a more nuanced understanding of how historical sites in the region were utilized across different eras. The Department of Antiquities continues to manage the site as part of its ongoing efforts to map the urban development of Kition.