Meet Paphos & 10 Must-Visit Landmarks
Are you travelling to Paphos? Check out 10 must-visit landmarks!
UNESCO Listed City-Back in antiquity Paphos used to be a cultural and religious hub. Taking a walk through the city is as if visiting an outdoor museum, overflowing with inspiring landmarks and monuments. Allow yourself to get lost and discover the thousands of treasures this cultural hub has installed for you!
Old City– The Old City of Paphos is where to head for when looking to soak in the traditional character of the island. Taking a journey through the ages is the best way to explain the feeling one gets when exploring this well-preserved and timeless city.
Aphrodite’s Rock-is a mythical beach landmark in Paphos, also known as the Rock of the Greek. This is the place where the Goddess of Love and Beauty rose from the foams of sea waves making Cyprus her home.
Old Port & Medieval Castle-The picturesque port is a hopeless romantic’s dream setting where taverns and cafes overlook the infinite blue. The crowds gather to have a bite to eat or chill with a drink or coffee while watching the passing boats sail off into the horizon. The primeval Medieval Fort represents the city’s turbulent and rich past. The Fort was originally built to protect the Paphos Harbour by the Byzantines. However, it later fell into the hands of other nations whereby it was dismantled and restricted several times. The Turks were the last to reconstruct the fortification in 1592.
Odeon-a spectacular Greco-Roman amphitheatre built in the 2nd century! It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a cultural night with live performances being held all through the summer months.
Saranda Kolones Palace (Forty Columns) – The 13th century palace was named after its dominating 40 columns by the Lusignans. Even though little has remained from the palace, its towers and dungeons as still intact attracting all visitors to explore it.
Tombs of the Kings– The Tombs of Kings connotes towards a burial ground of kings, but in fact the 4th century necropolis is not the last home of kings but of the aristocracy. The area was named as such due to their impressive style and structure-they were fit for kings. The tombs were rocked-carved, decorated with Doric pillars, wall paintings, and other architectural trimmings.
The House of Leda-Paphos has several architectural jewels including the Greco-Roman Houses dating as far back as the 2nd century. One of its most inspiring is the House of Leda, home to the famed Leda and the Swam mosaic.
Byzantine Museum- exhibits a collection of artefacts ranging from the 12th-18th centuries. Its rich collection includes ecclesiastical icons, wood-carvings and other significant religious remnants.
Avakas Gorge– is a dream nature spot for any enthusiastic hiker. Hikers get to meet the island’s rare flora and fauna, wild animals in their natural habitat as well as enjoy the jaw-dropping views of the surrounding scenery and landscapes.
Paphos is the epitome of culture, a home to thriving ancient civilisations, mystical gods as well as a tourist resort blessed with jaw-dropping bays and stunning landmarks. Have fun exploring all of them!