Cultural Tourist in Paphos
Although being a small-sized island, Cyprus is a land which overflows with history and culture, packed with past remnants that survive till today. Paphos, the island’s cultural hub, has long been designated as an UNESCO World Heritage city as its numerous monuments and ancient sites carry cultural value. Let’s get started!
In 1200 BC, the Temple of Aphrodite was built on a crest of a hill, where according to legend, was the place where the Greek goddess of love and beauty was born. During the Hellenistic era, the temple attracted pilgrimages from all over the world. Today, the well-preserved temple is still one of the most visited attractions in Paphos as thousands of travel enthusiasts seek to view this extraordinary sanctuary from up close.
According to other myths, the goddess first emerged from the foam of the waves at Petra Tou Romiou, which is also known as Aphrodite’s Rock. Aphrodite’s Rock, one of the most scenic bays on the island, is a place of inspiration and natural beauty.
The name of the burial ground connotes that Kings were buried at the Tombs of Kings, which is not the case. The graveyard was named as such because of the architectural magnificence of the tombs, which were constructed out of gargantuan hunks of solid rock, decorated with impressive Doric columns as well as murals. The well-preserved tombs date back more than 2000 years!
The timeless Mosaics of Paphos are thought to be some of the most beautiful and impressive remnants inspired from Greek Mythology. The well-preserved mosaics depict scenes taken from Greek Mythology and are believed to date to around 200 – 500 AD. The most impressive are found in Greco-Roman palaces such as the Houses of Orpheus, Dionysos, Theseus and Aion. Even though the mosaics had been buried for over 1500 years, they somehow remained preserved.
The 13-century-old church of Panagia Chrysopolitissa was built over the ruins of the largest and oldest-known Byzantine church in Cyprus. Initially, the ageless church was formed with seven aisles, but during the passage of time, the seven-aisled church was turned into a five-aisled church. its most impressive feature is undoubtedly its colourful mosaics, which fascinate visitors till this day.
The Odeon was and still is the heart and soul of Paphos. Located in the heart of the ancient city-kingdom of Paphos, this Roman amphitheatre was built in the 2nd century and used for theatrical and musical performances. The open-air timeless structure was built out of hewn limestone blocks. Considered as an architectural masterpiece, life still breathes within its grounds as musical and theatrical performances are held during the summer months, inviting all of you to experience a magical night under the stars!
As for your hospitality, Louis Hotels in Paphos have you covered! You can choose from Louis Imperial Beach, Louis Phatheon Beach, Louis Ledra Beach, Louis Paphos Breeze and the King Jason Paphos as well as the brand new Polis 1907!