A Culture Buff in Paphos
Although being a small-sized island, Cyprus is a land that boasts with history and culture, packed with past remnants that exist till today. Paphos, known as Cyprus’ cultural hub, has long been designated as an UNESCO World Heritage city as its timeless monuments and ancient sites tell their story till this day. The purpose of the article is to give you, the enthusiastic wanderluster, a brief review of all the must-see cultural and historical sites found in Paphos! From outstanding mosaics, to ancient temples and grandiose castles, Paphos is indeed a must cultural destination everyone should visit!
Tombs of Kings: The name of the burial ground connotes that Kings were buried in the ancient underground tombs, which as it turns out is definitely not the case. The burial ground was given its name due to the tombs architectural magnificence. The tombs were constructed out of gargantuan solid rock and decorated with impressive Doric columns and murals. The well-preserved tombs date back to the 4th century.
Paphos Mosaics: The amazing Paphos Mosaics are thought to be some of the most impressive remnants inspired by Greek Mythology. That is, the 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 Dionysos, Orpheus, Aion and Theseus.
Panagia Chrysopolitissa: The 13-century-old church of Panagia Chrysopolitissa was built over the ruins of the oldest and largest-known Byzantine church in Cyprus. At first, the ageless church was constructed with seven aisles. As time passed by the church became five-aisled church. Its most impressive feature is its colourful mosaics, which inspire every visitor till this day.
Odeion: The grand amphitheatre was and still is the heart of Paphos. Located in the centre of the ancient city-kingdom, this Roman outdoor amphitheatre was built in the 2nd century and was used for musical and theatrical performances. The structure was built out of hewn limestone blocks. Considered as an architectural masterpiece, life still breathes within its grounds as performances still take place during the summer months!
Agora: Like the Odeion, the Agora (market) is found within the heart of Paphos’ ancient city kingdom and dates back all the way to the 2nd century. The foundations and remains of the columns which used to make up the Roman market are still visible. In the past the market served as the central courtyard of the city and was encircled by column entrances made of grey granite inscribed with marble Corinthian capitals.
Saranta Kolones Castle: The amazing castle was given its name (Forty Columns) because forty columns were used to construct it. At first, the dominant castle was surrounded by massive walls with towers on each side whereby the walls and entrance were separated with a moat. It is believed the castle was built over the site of an earlier Byzantine fortress in around 1200AD. However, after the 1223 AD earthquake, the castle was destroyed and was never restored. The structure’s arched doors, stairs and dungeons remain intact and awe every visitor.
Paphos Lighthouse: Found at the end of the city’s old and picturesque harbour, just steps away from the crystalline Mediterranean Sea, the imposing Paphos Lighthouse is the perfect place to visit and enjoy the breathtaking view of the entire city as well as infinite blue sea. Climbing to the top of the lighthouse is definitely a mission but well-worth every visitor’s time as the breathtaking views serves as compensation!
Paphos overflows in culture and history. While exploring the city, enthusiastic wanderlusters soon discover it is like taking a step back in time while taking a peak into the future. Paphos is a destination where the history and culture blend perfectly with modern times!