Kato Paphos Archaeological Park – Add to your bucket list!
As you all very well know, Paphos is the cultural and historic hub of Cyprus, with a history dating back thousands of years. Paphos boasts with historic landmarks and ancient sites every holidaymaker must visit during their visit. Most of the ancient sites and monuments are designated UNESCO Heritage sites, which is an impressive fact as well! Those looking to take a trip back to the past should definitely visit Paphos Archaeological Park. The unique park is made up of monuments and sites originating from the Middle Ages, Hellenistic and Roman periods. The aim of the park is to preserve archaeological ruins as well as enhance them and inform the public of the history they carry.
Some of the most-favoured treasures found at the park are the impressive Mosaics, the Saranta Kolones Fort, the Odeon as well as the Aklipieion temple and the Roman Agora.
Kato Paphos Archaeological Park is home to many aristocratic Roman Houses that date back to the 2nd century. All of them are adorned with preserved mosaic floors. The House of Dionysos was named after the mosaic floors depicting scenes of God Dionysos, the Greek God of wine. It is believed the houses were owned by Roman officials or local aristocrats. The mosaic floors found are said to be the most well-preserved mosaics across Eastern Europe.
The Roman Odeon dates to the 2nd century. The open-air amphitheatre was built using blocks of well-hewn limestone blocks. Every summer, the ancient Odeon is brought back to life as theatrical and musical performances are held, inviting all visitors to experience a magical night under the stars.
The ancient Asklipieion was dedicated to Asklipios, the God of Medicine. Besides being a sanctuary, the extensive complex was also used as a nursing home.
The large underground graveyard, the Tombs of Kings, dates all the way back to the 4th century. Although, the name connotes that Kings were buried there, the burial ground was named after the magnificence of the tombs. The tombs were literally carved out of stone. Some of the tombs are decorated with dominating Doric Pillars.
Holidaymakers seeking to get a taste of Paphos archaic world should definitely add the abovementioned landmarks to their to-do-list and dive into the world of ancient times. As for accommodation, Louis Hotels runs 7 hotels in Paphos, so simply pick the one that best suits your needs: Louis Imperial Beach, Louis Phatheon Beach, Louis Ledra Beach, The King Jason Paphos, Louis Paphos Breeze, Louis Ivi Mare and Sofianna Resort & Spa!