Archaeological work at the ancient harbor of Maniki reveals that the coastline was deliberately reshaped to support major harbor construction, providing new insights into Roman trade and ritual in Cyprus. Researchers identified a thick archaeological layer that was created to level steep bedrock, allowing ships to unload their heavy cargo.
This engineered surface contained large quantities of discarded amphora sherds, linking harbor expansion directly to periods of intense maritime activity.
The evidence indicates that Maniki functioned as a working harbor during the sixth century A.D., capable of handling bulk materials. Among the cargo were marble blocks imported from Proconnesus, as well as column drums and capitals transported for church construction at Cape Drepanon. These findings connect the harbor to imperial building programs carried out under Emperor Justinian.
Amphora assemblage maps Mediterranean trade networks
One of the most significant results of the 2025 season was the study of more than 700 kilograms (1,500 pounds) of Late Roman amphora sherds recovered from Maniki. Led by Professor Stella Demesticha of the University of Cyprus, the analysis shows that most vessels belong to the Late Roman 1 type.
The amphorae were produced locally in the Paphos region and in Cilicia, with additional imports from Palestine and Gaza. This mix points to strong and sustained trade links between Cyprus and the eastern Mediterranean. Particularly notable are 68 red-painted inscriptions, known as dipinti, preserved on the vessels.
Scholars say these markings may record commercial information such as contents or ownership, offering rare insight into Late Roman trade organization.
Tomb evidence documents long-term burial practices
Research also focused on a rock-cut tomb dating from the Hellenistic to the Roman periods. Pottery studied by Professor Jolanta Mlynarczyk of the University of Warsaw spans from the first century B.C. to the fifth century A.D., showing that the tomb remained in use for several centuries.
This long sequence highlights continuity in burial practices, while changes in vessel types reflect broader cultural and economic shifts over time.
Scientific analyses shed light on food and ritual
Specialist studies added new details to the interpretation of the tomb. Dr. Rebecca Gerdes of Cornell University analyzed organic residues from Roman cooking vessels. Early results suggest these pots once held food, offering evidence for diet as well as meals associated with burial rituals.
Glass vessels documented by Dr. Mariusz Burdajewicz date mainly to the Roman Imperial period and include tableware and containers for liquids and oils. Their variety reflects both everyday use and access to wider Roman production networks.
Burned animal remains point to funerary ceremonies
Bioarchaeological research also produced key findings. Dr. Effie Nikita examined human skeletal remains, while Dr. Paul Croft studied animal bones deliberately placed in the tomb. Many of the remains show signs of burning and deformation, indicating intentional exposure to fire.
Researchers interpret this as evidence of funerary offerings or ritual meals linked to burial ceremonies, providing rare insight into beliefs and practices surrounding death in ancient Cyprus.
Together, the 2025 findings show that Agios Georgios of Pegeia was closely tied to regional trade, imperial construction, and long-lived ritual traditions, connecting coastal infrastructure with daily life and belief systems across centuries.
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