Discover the Hidden Gems of Paphos: Your Ideal Family Escape

Paphos is a mysterious and ancient city that is also the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite. The city is named after Paphos, the son (or daughter, in some versions) of Pygmalion and the mythical figure Galatea.

The original Paphos, known as Palaepaphos (Old Paphos), was located at what is now Kouklia, about 16 kilometres east of modern Paphos. It was an important religious centre, home to the Sanctuary of Aphrodite, one of the important shrines in the ancient world.

Around the 4th century BC, Nea Paphos (New Paphos) was founded closer to the coast, where we are now. In this article, you’ll learn about the historical sites in Paphos and the experience that it gives. Whether you’re looking for a Paphos all inclusive holidays trip or for a family trip, this article will convince you to make up your mind to visit Paphos right away.

It’s a City with a Rich History

The Mediterranean is regarded as an ideal destination for historical tourism. However, in many regions, the culture has shifted away from its roots, and history only exists as inscriptions and monuments. In Paphos, the tradition of the ancient Greeks lives to this day in the modern-day Cypriots, which gives a glimpse of how life in ancient Greece must’ve been. Let’s take a look at some of the historical sights and ancient cultures that live to this day that one can witness and experience the wonders of the ancient world.

The Historical Sites

The Sanctuary of Aphrodite

Just outside the city of Paphos stand the ancient ruins of the Sanctuary of Aphrodite. In the ancient world, it was a site of pilgrimage and was depicted in the coins minted by the Roman Empire. The sanctuary was abandoned in the 4th century BCE following the persecution of pagans under the Roman Empire, and it has remained desolate ever since.

Paphos Archaeological Park

This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a treasure trove of ancient ruins dating back to the Roman period. The park includes several important monuments, the most famous of which are the well-preserved Roman villas with intricate mosaic floors. These mosaics depict scenes from Greek mythology, such as the tales of Dionysus, the god of wine, and Theseus, the hero who defeated the Minotaur. The park also houses the Odeon, an ancient theatre still used for performances, and the Agor5 a, the central public space of the ancient city. Luckily, the site is just a 5 minutes drive from the best family hotels in Cyprus.

Tombs of the Kings

Despite its name, the Tombs of the Kings are not the resting place of royalty but rather the final resting place of high-ranking officials and aristocrats from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Egyptian burial practices inspired these underground tombs, which generally feature Doric columns and frescoes.

The Culture

Though the culture might not be the same as it was centuries ago, it evokes how people might have once lived. For instance, Aphrodite Worship doesn’t exist anymore, but cultural reverence for Aphrodite persists through music festivals such as the Aphrodite Festival in Paphos.

Early Christian influence dates back to the Apostle Paul himself living through the early church, such as Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church, and through the observation of the Christian holidays such as Easter and Christmas. One can experience the true Christian orthodox culture as it was during the time of apostles passed down through the church, unchanged till this date.

Additionally, there’s Cypriot cuisine, winemaking, pottery, and many more that you can experience first-hand.

To experience what the city of Paphos has to offer, one must be carefree of his day-to-day needs and of his accommodation. This is why it is recommended to book a hotel all-inclusive in Paphos that’d cover all your needs without needing to spend a single additional penny for your hotel and food expenses.