Paphos is a captivating holiday resort with a vibrant, modern and progressive character. At the same time, it has retained its status as a traditional harbour town with a rich history: the town as a whole is on the UNESCO list of cultural and natural treasures, with many of its historical sites connected to ancient Greek mythology.
Highlights
- Petra tou Romiou Also known as Aphrodite’s Rock, this sea stack marks the spot where the legendary goddess was born from the sea foam.
- Akamas Wild flowers, picture-perfect landscapes, a rugged coast and the Avakas gorge make up this stunning protected natural park that ranks among the island’s top beauty spots.
- Laiki Gonia The traditional pedestrian quarter of Laiki Gonia offers a lovely stroll for traditional souvenirs or the freshest of local produce at the municipal fruit and vegetable market.
- Baths of Aphrodite The small grotto shaded by an old fig tree is where the goddess Aphrodite used to bathe and meet with her lover, Adonis.
- Local flavours Cyprus has an exciting cuisine that combines the riches of many diverse food cultures. A typical holiday table is a mini-tour of the entire Mediterranean.
- Entertainment One can always find something to do in Paphos as the nightlife is quite diverse. One can dance the night away in a clubs, watch rugby in the pubs, experiment with fusion restaurants or snuggle up in the romantic little taverns along the beach. Additionally, there are many festivals and cultural events taking place throughout the year. One of the most interesting is the ancient Greek drama festival throughout the summer months where performances are done by theatre companies from around the world.
Landmarks
- Goddess Aphrodite The Greek goddess of love was born from the sea foam at Petra tou Romiou and took her first steps in Pafos, which became her playground and the centre of her cult. According to legend, if you swim around Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou) three times, you will be blessed with eternal youth.
- Ancient Odeon Built on the hillside slopes of the Fabrica hill, and situated within a complex of ancient buildings, the Odeon was the focal point of the ancient city centre. Made entirely from limestone blocks, it was uncovered in 1973-74 and has been beautifully restored for theatrical and musical performances during the summer.
- House of Theseus The House of Theseus in Kato Pafos once belonged to a Roman nobleman. It had more than 100 rooms and many mosaic floors with varying themes. Among its beautiful mosaics are geometrical decorations that depict mythological scenes including ‘Theseus killing the Minotaur’ and the ‘Birth of Achilles’.
- Pafos Fort The focal point of Kato Pafos is the fishing harbour with its magnificent medieval fort surrounded by cafés and restaurants. Visitors can enter the fort, explore its passages and take in views of the whole harbour from the top. In September it is the site of the annual open-air Pafos opera. По легенде, если вы три раза проплывете вокруг скалы Афродиты (Петра-ту-Румиу), вам даруется вечная юность.
- History & Heritage Greek mythology and the Orthodox religion are the foundation of Pafos’s glorious cultural past. With so many significant historical sites, it is no wonder that the whole town is on the UNESCO list of cultural and natural treasures. The list of fascinating things to see is endless, from ornate Byzantine churches to ancient tombs and mosaics. These are complemented by a landscape that is famous for its outstanding natural beauty. Pafos has some of the most stunning beauty spots on the island which include sea caves, limestone cliffs, the breathtaking Akamas Peninsula and Lara Bay. The intricate architecture, icons, chandeliers and ceilings of some of the town’s Byzantine churches tell a compelling story of the local faith. Definitely worth a visit are Ayia Paraskevi Church in Geroskipou, the Byzantine Basilica in Kato Pafos and the monasteries of Ayios Neofytos and Chrysorrogiatissa. One of the area’s most famous sites is the Tombs of the Kings. The impressive underground tombs date back to the 3rd century BC. Carved out of solid rock, they are the final resting place of about 100 noblemen of the time.
- Beaches in Paphos Paphos beaches are ideal for practicing an array of water sports including surfing, snorkelling and swimming. One such Paphos beach is Coral Bay which is famed for its sandy beaches, sparkling clear waters, safe swimming areas and organized water facilities. A more remote Paphos beach is Lara Bay which is unique because sea turtles lay their eggs their each year. A boat can be taken from Paphos harbor to avoid the difficult roads leading down to the beach.