Salami
An important center in the Saronic region, already from prehistoric times. The Peristeria cave has been inhabited since the Neolithic period and was used until the Mycenaean era. In Koulouri, Mycenaean vaulted tombs (14th - 12th century BC) were found, and in Navsthamos, sub-Mycenaean box-shaped tombs with cremations (13th - 11th century BC). The name of the island became famous after the victorious naval battle of the united Greek fleet led by the Athenians against the Persian fleet of Xerxes (480 BC). The ancient city of Salamis was located on the site of the village of Ampelakia (Gulf of Palukion). Part of the brick wall is preserved. South of Ampelakia, on the peninsula of Kynosoura (originally also Tropaia Akra, because there was a trophy for victory), opposite the islet of Psypalea, a burial mound, Polyandrion, is visible. for the Greek dead of the naval battle. Circular tower of classical times on the beach of Agios Nikolaos.
Early Christian tombs have been excavated in the city of Salamis. On the S. slope of Mount Mavrovuni, around the ruined Byzantine church of Agios Dimitrios, there are early Christian building remains. In Perani, remains of an early Christian basilica. Architectural sculptures of the same era in second use in the church of Panagia Peraniotissa.
In the current capital of the island, Koulouri, there is a small Museum with findings from Ampelakia (classical times, mainly tombstones).
Editor: Fotini Anastasopoulou