Take a plunge into amazing Paphos
Greetings to all travel enthusiasts! Today we shall put on our swimwear and take a plunge into ancient mythology and the amazing tourist resort of Paphos. Paphos is a coastal city in the southwestern part of Cyprus and it is a land of ancient ruins and castles, churches and monasteries, sandy beaches and blue seas. It is the must place to visit and is perfect for romantic couples and families that wish to soak up the sun in impressive style. In addition, Paphos has been designated as the European Capital of Culture for 2017, along with Aarhus of Denmark.
Paphos area is full of religious monuments and one that should catch your attention is the Church of Agia Kiriaki. The Church of Agia Kyriaki was built around 1500 A.D. next to the ruined Palaiochristian Basilica of Chrysopolitissa that was destroyed in 59 A.D. by an earthquake. According to the bible St. Paul and St. Barnabas visited Cyprus in 45 A.D. and converted the Roman proconsul who later on made Cyprus the first Christian country. The site still houses the column on which the Apostle was tied and whipped. This church is also known as “The Church by St. Paul’s Pillar”.
Outside the northern walls of Paphos town and two km away from the harbour, you shall find the Tombs of the Kings, one of the most important archaeological sites of Cyprus. It is a large necropolis that dates back to the 4th century B.C. and is a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site. The underground tombs are carved from stone and they were the final resting place for Paphos nobility. They are known as Tombs of the Kings due to their large size and the majestic finer details. Some of them were even constructed to imitate the actual house of the departed. Admission stands at only €2.50 and there so many tombs and rooms to explore on a site that goes on for miles. Also, the views of the Mediterranean Sea from the top are wonderful.
Akamas peninsula is a spot of enormous natural beauty that includes rare flora and fauna, hills, cliffs, beautiful coastline, amazing beaches, gorges and the baths of Aphrodite. Akamas is a protected National Park that has managed to brand itself as a different option for tourists who search for more than sun and sea.
Avakas Gorge is a scenic conception of nature located at the beginning of Akamas peninsula and lies 20 km away from Paphos. It is one of the best places on the island for people who love walking, hiking and amazing nature views. The gorge was created by the interaction of the continuous powerful flowing stream with the limestone cliffs thus creating magnificent rock creations and the walls at some point reach 35 meters in height. At some point, the crossings are too narrow and the terrain is pretty tricky due to the rocky surface. It is advised to visit Akamas with a 4×4 car and in order to complete the hike, it is best to wear the appropriate clothes/footwear and to carry with you the necessary refreshments. During the winter and when there is rainfall the stream becomes a torrent so for your own safety you should stay away.
This is all, for now, my dear fellow adventurers. In conclusion please remember that life is short and beautiful and it is strictly up to you to enjoy it and live it to the fullest.