**Ancient Paphos Defences Revealed in New Excavation at Fabrika Hill**
Recent excavations at Fabrika Hill in Kato Paphos have unveiled significant insights into the defensive structures and urban development of ancient Nea Paphos. The archaeological mission, led by Professor Claire Balandier from Avignon University, in collaboration with the French School at Athens and the Department of Antiquities, focused on the acropolis of Nea Paphos and the remnants of its Hellenistic walls.
Among the notable discoveries was the identification of a major defensive tower that was part of the ancient city's fortifications. Archaeologists located the remains of a large square tower carved into the bedrock, situated near the church of Ayios Agapitikos. This structure is believed to have been integral to the Hellenistic defensive wall that protected Nea Paphos over 2,000 years ago.
In addition to the tower, the excavation team uncovered part of the preserved floor inside another defensive tower located near the city's north-west gate. This finding adds to the understanding of the city's military architecture during its peak.
One of the most intriguing discoveries was related to an underground water system adjacent to the ancient theatre. The team found that a rock-cut channel, initially discovered in the previous year, extended further than previously documented. This channel was designed to transport water to an underground storage gallery dating back to the Hellenistic period. Researchers believe that this system underwent modifications during the Roman era, which included the construction of a well to redirect water into the storage area before it was conveyed to a nearby cistern.
During their investigations, the archaeologists also recovered fragments of a large terracotta pipe, which likely played a role in the water distribution system. Evidence suggests that the water system may have suffered damage from an ancient earthquake, as a significant crack in the gallery wall appears to have allowed water to escape, potentially leading to the abandonment of the structure.
In proximity to the water system, excavators encountered a previously unknown wall standing approximately three meters high. The origins of this wall remain uncertain, as the team has yet to reach its foundations. Further investigations are planned for next year to determine whether the wall dates back to the Roman or Hellenistic period.
The excavation also included work within one of Fabrika Hill's underground chambers. Originally carved as a quarry during the early Hellenistic era, this space was later repurposed, possibly intended to serve as a tomb. However, it was abandoned prior to its intended use, likely due to the expansion of the city. Over the centuries, the chamber was reused, first during Roman times and later as a church in the early Byzantine period.
These discoveries contribute to an ongoing international research program aimed at examining the history, fortifications, and urban development of ancient Nea Paphos. The findings not only enhance the understanding of the city's defensive mechanisms but also shed light on the complex water management systems that supported its inhabitants.
As the excavation continues, researchers anticipate further revelations that will deepen the historical narrative of Nea Paphos, a city that has played a significant role in the cultural and historical landscape of Cyprus. The ongoing work at Fabrika Hill promises to uncover more about the ancient civilization that once thrived in this region.