A second Larnaka region archaeological site has been virtually reconstructed under a cooperation between Larnaka Tourism Board (LTB) and the Youth Makerspace Larnaka branch of Youth Board of Cyprus (ONEK). Kalavasos-Tenta follows the virtual reconstruction of the Ancient Port of Kition, and alongside the Neolithic Settlement of Choirokoitia, is an excellent example of an early permanent settlement of populations on the island during the Aceramic Neolithic period (7.000-5.200 BC). 

The settlement is brought back to life through video and 3D visualisation VR, taking a journey back 9,500 years to the point where some of Cyprus' first permanent residents established a village west of the Vasilikos River plain. The ancient ruins are virtually restored, and whole buildings appear, with the main characteristic being the circular floor plan and the enclosure wall that surrounded the settlement. An example of the interior of a house is also presented, with focus on the rare decoration of a building, where two human figures with raised arms can be seen. The video also refers to the daily activities of the inhabitants and their coexistence with the animals of the time, while archaeological finds from the area are also presented, such as tools, stoneware and jewellery. 

The settlement of Tenta, like other settlements of the same period, was suddenly abandoned around 5.600 BC, with the reasons for this abandonment unknown. 

In order to accurately implement the project, the excavation site was carefully studied under the expert guidance of archaeologist Alison South, with LTB and ONEK expressing their thanks for her invaluable contribution, along with that of the Department of Antiquities and the Deputy Ministry of Tourism. 

Viewers can experience the 3D visualisation at Youth Makerspace Larnaka through the virtual reality equipment available at the premises. The video is also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pGWWbXR12_A  

February 15, 2023