10 Reasons to Visit Paphos in 2017
Did you know that during antiquity Paphos was the capital of Cyprus for nearly 600 years? Did you know that Paphos has been crowned the 2017 European cultural capital? Did you know that Paphos boasts with archaeological sites and landmarks that date back to ancient civilisations or that the city used to be the cultural and business hub of the Mediterranean back in the days? Did you know that Paphos has been blessed with a sun-kissed coastline attracting beach lovers from all over the world?
No? Let’s get you informed:
The picturesque Old Harbour of Paphos is a tourist’s dream, decorated with numerous tourist shops, jewellery shops, and shops selling locally produced handicrafts. There are also cafes, taverns and restaurants that dot the coastline, ideal for those looking to take a relaxing break and have a bite to eat. While strolling along the port you’ll get to meet the city’s celebrity which is none other than, Kokos the friendly pelican!
The ancient open-air amphitheatre, the Odeon is traced back to the 2nd century. It is a semi-circled structure made up of a stage and 12 rows of seats completely built out of limestone. In fact, many musical and theatrical performances are still held at the Odeon all through the summer months and every visitor should definitely not miss this incredible experience.
Overlooking the Paphos harbour stands the famous Paphos Medieval Fort carrying a long past. The fort was initially built by the Byzantines in order to protect the city’s harbour from enemy raids and attacks, but was later dismantled and re-built by the Lusignans. After that, the fort was destroyed by the Venetians and re-constructed by the Turks in 1592. All through its history, the castle has witnessed many of the island’s foreign conquerors and has been used for protection, as a prison as well as a storage unit.
The Tombs of Kings is an underground necropolis dating back to the 4th century, where the tombs were carved into actual rock and decorated with Doric-style pillars, wall paintings, and other architectural embellishments. Kings do not lie in the tombs. The area was given the royal name due to the tombs magnificence. In fact, it is believed, due to their mastery, that Paphos aristocracy was buried within the tombs.
Dionysos Roman House is a Roman-style palace decorated with elaborate and well-preserved mosaic floors. The mosaics are famed for their beauty as well as being the finest throughout the Mediterranean region. The roman house was named after Dionysus, the god of wine, as the famous mosaics found within the house depict Dionysus riding his chariot and drinking wine.
The Paphos Archaeological Museum offers an insightful journey through the city’s historical past beginning from the Neolithic Era up until 1700 AD. The museum includes four exhibition rooms, where each room depicts the artefacts and findings of a different era.
The Baths of Aphrodite are in fact where the Greek goddess, Aphrodite bathed daily under the shade of a big fig tree within a natural spring. As legend has it, this is the spot where Adonis and Aphrodite first met and fell in love at first sight! Apparently whoever drinks from the spring is granted eternal youth and beauty.
Initially Saint Solomonis church was a Christian underground cave, made up of a group of chambers decorated with 12th century frescoes. According to folklore, the tree outside is believed to have miraculous powers, curing the sick from illnesses. Strong believers tie strips of cloth on the tree’s branches, hoping that their illnesses will be cured.
A paradise-like cove, tucked away within Akamas peninsula, Blue Lagoon is every wanderluster’s dream destination! Glistening blue-green crystalline waters stretch as far as the eyes can see! Jump in!
Besides the bay’s impressive ragged beauty, Lara Beach is famous as being home to the Caretta Caretta turtles, which are protected in the area. Those who visit the stunning bay may get to witness the miracle of nature in the process as the Caretta Caretta turtles lay their eggs or baby turtles hatch and head for the sea.
Paphos is undoubtedly amongst the top holiday destination in our times. When visiting the city it is easy to know why as the ancient city overflows with cultural heritage, breathtaking bays and inspiring archaeological landmarks! That’s all for now, stay tuned for more on Paphos!