On Saturday morning, the group traveled to Kolossi Castle and learned about the Crusaders who occupied it. I was interested to learn more about the part the Crusaders played in Cypriot history ever since learning about the Knights of the Temple earlier in the week. Within the castle walls, there were remnants of Christianity and French influence. I enjoyed seeing these specific parts of Cypriot culture and was able to imagine the structure in history.

Later in the day, the group traveled to ancient ruins. I loved seeing and learning about the mosaic, which would’ve been the flooring of the house in agent times. It was interesting to see the way in which art helps us to understand the reality that took place in history. For example, we saw that the woman in the mosaic held a tool in her hand that would have been used as a measuring tool for construction. Seeing the device in the art helped historians confirm that it was actually used hundreds of years ago.

The group then traveled to a seafood restaurant on the coast. The view was different from our previous trips, and I got to experience a different side of Cyprus‘s nature. Additionally, the food was amazing and authentic.

Lastly, the group traveled to Limassol Castle, where we learned about many different pieces of Cypriot culture and viewed various different artifacts. I was astonished by the variety of pieces of art that were saved from being destroyed by conquerors. I remember our guide explaining how some of the statues on the wall would have been seen all over Limassol if they were not destroyed by the Turkish after the invasion. I was saddened to learn that such beautiful art pieces would’ve been numerous in the area if they were not destroyed. Still, the pieces did help me imagine how Limassol would’ve looked like in the past.