The most prestigious resort in Cyprus is Pafos, a historical city. There aren’t any wild parties or places where kids can play. However, there are numerous fine dining establishments, serene coves, and archaeological parks. It is best to be ready for numerous excursions if you choose Paphos. Being here makes it impossible to avoid visiting the distinctive remains of bygone civilizations.
In 1980, Pafos was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List as a result of the numerous archaeological artefacts found in the Kato Pafos old town. The majority of them are gathered in the Pafos Archaeological Park, together with other fascinating historical sites as the Pafos Mosaic and the Royal Tombs.
Archaeological Park
The sizable archaeological park is the most important archaeological find nearby Paphos. Numerous villas, including the homes of Dionysus, Theseus, Orpheus, and Aeon, contain colourful mosaics that are superbly maintained. They are based on mythological events such as the fight between the Minotaur and Theseus, Leda’s bathing, and Dionysus’ victory. Additionally, there is an agora, a tiny odeon (theatre), and an Asclepius temple with wall and column fragments. The late XIII century Saranta Colones Byzantine fortress was found in the park. Its main goal was to defend Pafos from Arab incursions. The thermae, pools, chapels, and workhouses’ foundations are still visible among the spectacular castle remains.
Villa Dionysus
The ruins of a Roman aristocrat’s home from the second century. Because it contains the mosaic known as the Triumph of Dionysus, which depicts the Greek deity of wine riding a leopard-drawn chariot, it is known as the Villa of Dionysus. The deities Satyr and Pan are with him.
The Odeon Theatre
An ancient amphitheatre from the 2nd century, built by the Greeks and the Romans. The Odeon is reasonably well preserved as it was carved almost entirely out of solid rock. This is why an earthquake in the fourth century did not cause much damage. The theatre was discovered in 1973 during the excavations. Nowadays, festivals and concerts are held there.
Royal tombs
Aristocrats and powerful people were interred in this underground necropolis until the third century. Many tomb vaults have columns and frescoes, and some have been converted into complete homes. In order to avoid persecution, the earliest Christians took refuge in these catacombs.
Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa
The Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa is a Byzantine church built in the 5th century that was once a place of worship. Today the ruins of this once majestic and beautiful basilica are just columns, foundations, and fragments of mosaics on the floor. Although it has long lost its original appearance, it is one of the most visited places in Pafos and offers an insight into the ancient history of the Cypriot people.
One of the advantages of Pafos is its unspoilt nature and proximity to the protected Akamas Peninsula. Pafos is home to the most beautiful beach in Cyprus, Coral Bay. It is one of the few areas completely covered in sand. Tourists are attracted by the bay’s shallow turquoise sea, the absence of waves and the cleanliness of the coast. As the resort has its own international airport where flights from all over the world regularly land, there should be no difficulty. For those arriving at the airport, we suggest taking the Paphos airport taxi, instead of the municipal express bus service, to get to the hotel. As a final reminder, don’t forget to take a swim in Aphrodite’s Bay to return home full of love, youth and inner glow!