Paphos Archaeological Park Cyprus – Spectacular Mosaics
1. History
2. Paphos Archaeological Park
3. Tombs of the Kings
4. Kouklia – Aphrodite’s birthplace
5. Modern Paphos
Paphos (in Turkish Pafos) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Cyprus. In antiquity, it was the centre of the cult of Aphrodite, and a temple in honour of the Greek goddess was erected by the Mycenaeans in the 12th century BC. Some kilometres from Paphos along the south coast, you will find the birthplace of Aphrodite, Aphrodite’s Rock.
Paphos Archaeological Park includes remains from the 4th century BC to the Middle Ages. It is both an ancient Greek and an ancient Roman city. Between the 4th century BC and the 2nd century BC, Paphos served as the capital of Cyprus. Moreover, it had great historical and religious importance. The remains cover a significant area, and the site is still being excavated today.
The archaeological site is also known as the Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos, meaning ‘New Paphos’, the part of Paphos located near the sea on the southwest coast of Cyprus. Nea Paphos was probably founded by the last king of Paphos, Nicocles, in the 4th century BC. Paphos Archaeological Park is one of the most important archaeological sites in Cyprus, included in the UNESCO World Heritage listing in 1980.
Most remains in Paphos Archaeological Park date to the Roman period. The site is known for its outstanding mosaics, which are world-famous for their beauty and architectural designs – every single one is a masterpiece!
Photo: Travel In Culture
The site consists of several Roman villas and palaces, tombs, a theatre, an agora, a basilica, an odeon, and other significant constructions and monuments. The excavation has contributed to understanding how life was in Cyprus more than two thousand years ago.
Photo: Travel In Culture
Among the rich villas with intricate mosaic floors found until today are the House of Dionysos, the House of Aion, the House of Orpheus, and the House of Theseus. Some houses were constructed above more ancient ruins, e.g. the House of Dionysos.
Photo: Travel In Culture
The most well-preserved mosaic floors are lively illustrations from everyday situations and Greek mythology. They include symbols and representations of Greek heroes and gods.
Photo: Travel In Culture
Photo: Travel In Culture
In the House of Dionysos, dating from the 2nd century AD, more than 500 square metres have been covered with mosaics with mythological motifs and hunting scenes. Wild boars, tigers, bears, panthers, oxen, and deer are among the animals depicted on the mosaic tiles. These are real works of art adorning the villa floors. There is also a floor of seashells, representing the sea monster Skyla, uncovered below the Roman villa. It had belonged to an earlier villa in the same place. The god Dionysos, the Olympian god of wine, is also pictured in the mosaic.
Photo: Travel In Culture
Photo: Travel In Culture
A courtyard (an atrium) is in the middle of the House of Dionysos. As can also be expected, there are signs that the house has been exposed to several earthquakes over time.
The Tombs of the Kings | Photo: Dimitris Vetsikas / Pixabay
In addition to Nea Paphos, the excavations include a cemetery, the necropolis, also known as the Tombs of the Kings (Tafoi ton Vasileon), about two kilometres north of the harbour.
The tombs are underground tombs that date back to the 4th century BC. It is spectacular that they are carved out of the rock! Most likely, the tombs have served as burial sites for aristocrats and other high-ranking people, although probably not including any kings – despite the name.
Supported by solid Doric columns, the imposing constructions resemble real houses. Also, the surrounding frescoed walls are spectacular.
Southeast of Paphos in Palaepaphos (Old Paphos), the village Kouklia is situated. It is also in this area that the birthplace of Aphrodite and the remains of Aphrodite’s Sanctuary are. Her temple dates to the 12th century BC when the Mycenaeans erected it. Aphrodite’s Rock is a beautiful rock formation in the sea that has become a symbol of the birth of the Greek goddess of love. It is today known as her birthplace.
Aphrodite’s Rock | Photo: Travel In Culture
Paphos Archaeological Park is in the lower part of town, Kato Paphos, below the streets stretching up in the hills opposite the coastline. It is today’s vibrant and modern part of Paphos, where the streets are dotted with enticing tavernas and souvenir shops.
Photo: Travel In Culture
At the end of Paphos Harbour, you can explore the medieval castle, a Byzantine fort that came into possession of both the Venetians and, later, the Ottomans. It is a massive construction with a courtyard in the middle.
Paphos is an idyllic place, especially around the harbour promenade, where you can take a walk and enjoy the atmosphere of a charming town with roots dating back to ancient Cyprus.
Read next: 9 Things to Do in Cyprus and 9 Things to Do in Istanbul – Where to Stay
Spectacular Mosaics at Paphos Archaeological Park Cyprus
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Spectacular Mosaics at Paphos Archaeological Park Cyprus:
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