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Selected and rare materials, excerpts and observations from ancient, medieval and contemporary authors, travelers and researchers about Cyprus.
 
 
 
 
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GIOVANNI MARITI
Travels in the Island of Cyprus
page 164

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i6o Of the Site of Citium [CH. Χ ΧΙ Χ Greek larnax, a coffin or tomb. But I cannot therefore accept the suggestion that Larnaca was the necropolis of a village more than six miles distant. Besides the sarcophagi found in 1766 by Signor Zambelli's masons, my friend mentions a remarkable tomb found under the house of one Ianni, a Cypriot watchmaker, consisting of a large vaulted chamber supported by two arches, and containing two sarcophagi with bones indicating a stature beyond that of the tallest men of our days. Also in the garden of the house known as that of " the three cypresses," then inhabited by a French merchant, M. Hermitte, were laid open four sepulchral chambers of different sizes, constructed on the same model. Similar remains are noted by Dapper. The first settlers, be they who they may/ certainly sought out the most convenient landing-place; and their successors, always a seafaring and trading folk, would certainly have used and improved the facilities open to them at Larnaca, which are altogether wanting at Citi. Shall I convince my good friend? I hope so; but I remember Martial's wise saying " Aurum et opes, et rura frequens donabit amicus. Qui velit ingenio cedere rarus erit," and leave an impartial public to decide between us.

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