Castle on the edge of Paphos harbour, Paphos castle is one of the most famous landmarks of the city. A number of archaeologists have taken an interest in excavating and investigating the castle as it dates back to the Roman era. The Byzantine fort, originally built to protect the harbour was destroyed because of an earthquake in 1222. It was then rebuilt by the Lusignans in the 13 th century and since then has seen a few more reconstructions till date. It currently serves as a background for the annual open-air Paphos cultural festival, which takes place in September.
Aphrodite’s Rock - Petra Tou Romiou (Birthplace of Aphrodite)
Named after the Greek Goddess of love and beauty; Aphrodite, the rock located between Limassol and Paphos is believed to be sacred. Legend says that this is the point where Aphrodite emerged from the sea in a surge of amazing sea foam in 1200 BC. She herself chose this rock as the ideal location to begin her life as a mortal.
Tombs of the Kings
Tombs of the Kings is a large necropolis burial ground situated about two kilometres north-west of Paphos harbour in Cyprus. Many of these underground tombs that date back to the 4thcentury BCE, are sculpted out of solid rock. Believed to be the burial sites of Paphitic aristocrats and high officials, some of the tombs have frescoed walls and Doric columns. The tombs are listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites for their archaeological magnificence.
Paphos Archaeological Park
Paphos Lighthouse
Situated in close proximity of Odeon, Paphos lighthouse is a golden point of the city as it can be seen from any corner of Paphos. If you are fit enough to climb the staircases successfully, the top of this lighthouse offers you an opportunity to catch panoramic, magnificent glimpses of Paphos. Once you reach to the top of this lighthouse, a look at the historic and scenic city of Paphos makes your visit worth a treasure.
Akamas Peninsula, PaphosT
he most beautiful location on the entire island, the Akamas Peninsula is located to the west of Cyprus. The peninsula covers approximately an area of 230 square kilometres surrounded by mountains and densely wooded, almost inaccessible forests. These forests incrude around 530 plant species endemic to Cyprus and hence enjoy a great biodiversity. Because of its ecological significance, the Akamas peninsula is not only a tourist attraction, but also of great interest for botanists from all over the world.
he most beautiful location on the entire island, the Akamas Peninsula is located to the west of Cyprus. The peninsula covers approximately an area of 230 square kilometres surrounded by mountains and densely wooded, almost inaccessible forests. These forests incrude around 530 plant species endemic to Cyprus and hence enjoy a great biodiversity. Because of its ecological significance, the Akamas peninsula is not only a tourist attraction, but also of great interest for botanists from all over the world.
Ayios Neophytos Monastery
The historic Ayios Neophytos monastery takes you back to the ancient life of Cypriot hermit and writer, Neophytos, who carved the monastery out of mountain rock in the year 1159. Today, home to only a handful of monks and a museum, the monastery is famous for the grottoes dating back to the Byzantine Empire. Located just 20 minutes from the busy Paphos town centre the monastery holds a two-day religious fair in January to sell Cypriot arts & crafts.
The historic Ayios Neophytos monastery takes you back to the ancient life of Cypriot hermit and writer, Neophytos, who carved the monastery out of mountain rock in the year 1159. Today, home to only a handful of monks and a museum, the monastery is famous for the grottoes dating back to the Byzantine Empire. Located just 20 minutes from the busy Paphos town centre the monastery holds a two-day religious fair in January to sell Cypriot arts & crafts.
Agia Solomoni Church
Originally, a Christian catacomb, Ayia Solomoni Church was carved underground out of limestone rock. Home to several 12th century frescoes, the church also houses some of the original graves that date back to the Hellenistic period. The remains of the old frescoes from the 12th century and some holy water are the main attractions of Ayia Solomoni Church.
Ethnographical Museum
Considered as the richest museum of Cyprus, Ethnographical Museum was known as the Folk Art Museum until 1971. It holds a collection of woodcarvings, jewellery, tapestries, woven goods, pottery, embroidery, and national costumes from the 19th and 20th centuries. Today it is famous among tourists, especially among history and art lovers as an excellent place that introduces the lives of the people from the prehistoric era.
The Mosaics of Paphos
Famous as the finest mosaic in the Eastern Mediterranean, the Paphos Mosaics are located beside the harbour. The mosaics seen in the Villa of Dionysos, Orpheus and Aion, and the Villa of Theseus depict compositions from Greek mythology. They are made from small cubes of marble and stone called tesserae. Additionally, glass paste was used to develop the range of colours.
No comments:
Post a Comment