The Kalavasos-Tenta Archaeological site has been virtually reconstructed with a historically accurate video that shows how the Neolithic settlement appeared 9500 years ago. 

The video takes viewers back in time to the site during the Aceramic Neolithic period (7.000-5.200 BC), when the island’s first permanent residents established a village west of the Vasilikos River plain.  

The settlement comes to life through the reconstruction of the characteristic, circular dwellings housed within an enclosure, amidst the lush, fertile landscape of the area that was abundant in wildlife and crops. The dwellings were built with mud and stone bricks with flat rooves of reed and clay 

Images and information about tools, stoneware and jewellery found at the settlement during excavations of the archaeological site paint a vivid picture of how this civilization lived day-to-day. The remains of the settlement in Kalavasos village - alongside those at Choirokoitia Neolithic Settlement – are an excellent example of an early permanent settlement of populations. 

Of particular note is the rare building decoration of two human figures with raised arms, which was painted in red ochre. Its depiction remains unknown, and it is the only completed figural painting on the island from this era. 

The village was eventually abandoned in 5.600 BC for reasons unknown. 

The initiative is a collaboration between LTB and the Youth Makerspace Larnaka branch of Youth Board of Cyprus (ONEK). In order to accurately implement the project, the excavation site was carefully studied under the expert guidance of archaeologist Alison South, and supported by the Department of Antiquities and the Deputy Ministry of Tourism. 

You can watch the video here to find out more about this fascinating and sophisticated settlement. 

Viewers can also experience the 3D visualisation at Youth Makerspace Larnaka through the virtual reality equipment available at the premises. 

It is the second Larnaka region archaeological site to be virtually constructed following the award-winning Ancient Port of Kition Reconstruction Video in 2022; the first such virtual reconstruction on the island.