This post should have appeared yesterday. Unfortunately, my PC was temporarily disabled by a Windows 10 update. It had to be remotely invaded before it could be persuaded to comply with my wishes. Out of action for the whole day. But back now.

Saturday sent us on another walk into the town to see more historical sites. We found the Odeum, an ancient Greek theatre, which has been restored in excellent fashion. As it was the weekend, we were not alone here, but all visitors were considerate. Masks had to be worn for the interior exhibition, which was well-presented and told the interesting story of the discovery and restoration. Outside again, a narrow passage led to a wide canopy sheltering a mosaic. On the way, we encountered a lizard, I think a Starred Agama (Laudakia Stellio), on part of the wall. Managed a quick shot before it slipped into a crevice.

We left the old theatre and crossed the road into the Western Archaeological Site. This was also free entry. And it was another site protected by fencing overnight, but now largely neglected due to financial pressures and the Covid crisis. Here, we encountered very few other visitors, perhaps because by this time it was the middle of the day and all but mad dogs and Englishmen were sheltering from the heat of the midday sun! We wandered the extensive site, exploring the many remains and trying to imagine life in those ancient times.

A large building has been fully restored, the Basilica, its walls sound and solid. But it was locked. A rough path up one side revealed a barred but unglazed window that allowed a view of the inside. The interior showed more pillars arranged around a square.

Elsewhere on the site a large arch showed signs of earthquake damage and a portico had been almost fully restored. There were mosaics and a processional way, all providing clues to the lifestyle of the ancient citizens of the old city.

Again, I’m not intending to do more than provide a flavour of the places we visited, rather than a guided tour. Hopefully, those intrigued will be able to visit the places in the future, when current restrictions have been lifted. Or, more environmentally friendly, research either online or through the local library.

As we left the town to return to the hotel for some refreshment, we noted clouds gathering around the heads of the nearby mountains, but they didn’t produce any rain or real cloud cover!

For our evening meal, we returned to Rustico Italiano and had more wonderful food and another shared bottle of Prosecco. A good day. What would Sunday, our 32^nd wedding anniversary, bring?