3 Must-Visit Landmarks in Paphos
Paphos is the cultural hub of Cyprus. The city boasts with rich cultural heritage and history, visible through the vast range of temples, castles, mosaics, palaces and ancient burial grounds the city is decorated with. Paphos has been inhabited since the Neolithic era and with the passage of time has been conquered by multiple foreign invaders, all leaving behind traces of their time spent on the island. Apart from the city’s cultural significance, Paphos is a place of beauty accentuated by the multiple unmanned landmarks, timeless villages and golden coastline. Paphos is well-worth every wanderluster’s visit.
The ancient Odeon is one of the most impressive archaeological treasures in Cyprus. The inspiring Greco-Roman amphitheatre dates as far back as the 2nd century and was completely constructed by hewn limestone rocks. It is not only one of the most favoured attractions, but also one of the most famed open-air amphitheatres which still holds live theatrical and musical performances during the summer months. In the summer the Odeon is brought back to life as theatrical and musical performances take over the stage, attracting the locals and tourists that watch with amazement while marvelling at the structure’s impressive architecture.
Found close to Paphos Old Harbour, Saint Solomon’s Church is one of the most important religious landmarks on the island as it is also home to underground Christian catacombs which date back to the 12th century. Upon the entrance of the catacombs you’ll encounter a soaring pistachio tree covered with cloths. The tree is believed to have miraculous powers. According to the locals, those suffering from illnesses tie strips of their clothes on the branches of the tree and are cured.
The Medieval Ottoman Baths (Hammam) are located near the Old Market in Paphos. During Medieval times, the Ottoman Baths were part of a larger structure. During the time in history when the Ottoman Empire ruled the island, the baths were expanded and modifications were made to its actual structure. The Ottoman Baths are a typical representation of any stone-vaulted Hammam, consisting of three main rooms. The first was used to undress, the second was the warm room and the third was the hot room.
The Ottoman Baths closed doors in the 1950s but remains a UNESCO listed site, therefore it has been restored the building which houses the Paphos Municipal Cultural Centre and museum. The Medieval Ottoman Baths are merely one of the many architectural treasures left behind by the Ottoman Empire, revealing the rich historical and cultural heritage of Cyprus.
That’s all on Paphos for now folks, stay tuned for more!