Meet Paphos, the Ultimate Cultural Hub
May 15, 2015
Are you travelling to Paphos? Then read on and find all you need to do and see while holidaying in Paphos!
- UNESCO Listed City-Back in antiquity Paphos used to be a celebrated 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!
- Modern City-The modern and cosmopolitan city of Paphos is known as Pano Paphos. The city’s contemporary part has nothing to envy from other top metropolitan destinations, as it has the buzz and character and overflows with trendy bars and cafes just like any other cosmopolitan destinations.
- 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.
- Charismatic Harbour-The picturesque Harbour 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.
- Medieval Castle- 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.
- Roman Agora- The awe-inspiring open-air market originates from the 2nd century. This is the place where vendors, farmers and handcrafters set up shop back in ancient times.
- Acropolis-You ain’t Greek unless you have an Acropolis! Although not much has remained of the once glorious Acropolis, the fact it represents the ancient Greek nation designates it as a must-see!
- Asklepion Temple- During antiquity Asklepion was celebrated as the God of Healing. As a dedication to the father of healing, his devoted disciples built a temple in his name which served as a place to learn and heal.
- Dionysos Roman Palace-The palace serves as an exquisite example of Roman architecture, decorated with elaborate mosaic floors.
- 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 actually rocked-carved, decorated with Doric pillars, wall paintings, and other architectural trimmings.
- The Sanctuary of Aphrodite- Back in the ancient times, the 12th century sanctuary was used to perform rituals in honour of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty. As legend has it, Aphrodite claimed her human form at exactly this spot.
- 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.
- Municipal Market-It’s always a great idea to stroll through the market place of a foreign country. Visitors are introduced to a side of the locals’ traditions and culture which they find nowhere else. The open-air bazaar is a busy, colourful and vibrant experience where you get to hear, smell and taste Cyprus in its purest form, not to mention the best spot to buy souvenirs!
- Garrison's Camp – is an underground group of chambers stone-carved chambers which served as soldiers’ dwellings.
- Archaeological Museum- showcases artefacts Museum dating back to the Neolithic Period up until 1700 AD. Each of its exhibition rooms offers insight on a different time period.
- 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.
- Saint Paul's Pillar- carries religious importance as it was at this exact spot that Saint Paul was whipped 39 times as a form of punishment for preaching the word of God.
- St. Solomonis Church- In the past an underground cave was the home to the Christian church. The underground cave formed a complex of chambers decorated with 12th century frescoes. The grounds the church lie on are so spiritual that it is said the tree found outside carries miraculous curing powers.
- St. Paraskevi Church-dates back to the 10th century. The most impressive features of the Byzantine church are the five domes that form a cross on its top as well as 15th century murals.
- Adonis Baths - The Baths of Adonis are every nature lover’s dream spot, often described as a wonder of nature. As legend has it, this is the area which Adonis and Aphrodite, the island’s lovers, settled down and created a family.
- Baths of Aphrodite- is a natural spring tucked under the cooling shade of a sky-scraping fig tree. As Aphrodite, was bathing in the spring when Adonis happened to pass by. The two fell in love at first sight right at this spot!
- 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.
- Lara Beach-is an intoxicating and protected natural stretch where visitors get to meet the Caretta Caretta sea turtles, which visit the bay to lay their eggs.
- Blue Lagoon- If paradise was on earth, Blue lagoon would be it! Blue Lagoon is a pictorial postcard-like cove distinct for its pristine waters and breathtaking scenery.
- Cultural Festival-The 2nd century Greco-Roman Odeon is brought to life every summer hosting the city’s Cultural Festival offering theatrical performances inspired by ancient Greek comedies and tragedies.
- Paphos Aquarium-is a thrilling experience for both children and adults offering a journey through the sea world and its creatures. Who wants to meet cute seals, or pat friendly dolphins or even see a shark or crocodile?
- Aphrodite Water Park-is open to all offering thrilling water rides and slides as well as loads of summer fun!
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!
Theodoros Dionysiou
I live in Nicosia, Cyprus and currently working at Louis Hotels.I enjoy writing and sharing my experience with others