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House of Dionysus: A Mosaic Masterpiece

Explore the stunning mosaics of the House of Dionysus in Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and step back into the world of Roman Cyprus.

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The House of Dionysus in Paphos, Cyprus, is a remarkable Roman villa famed for its exceptionally well-preserved mosaic floors dating back to the 2nd century AD. Named after the god of wine, Dionysus, the villa offers a captivating glimpse into the opulent lifestyle and rich culture of Roman Paphos through its intricate mythological and hunting scenes.

A brief summary to House of Dionysus

  • QC54+7C8, Paphos, CY

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the summer months.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the House of Dionysus and the surrounding Paphos Archaeological Park.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions in the Paphos Archaeological Park, such as the House of Theseus and the Tombs of the Kings.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The House of Dionysus is located within the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, near the Paphos Harbour. From most hotels in Kato Paphos, it's easily accessible by foot. Follow the coastal path towards the harbor and then follow the signs for the Archaeological Park. Once inside the park, the House of Dionysus is well-signposted. The entrance fee for the Archaeological Park is €4.50.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus, take any bus that stops at the Paphos Harbour bus station. From there, walk along the coastal path towards the Archaeological Park and follow the signs to the House of Dionysus. The bus fare within Paphos is typically around €1.50 for a single journey. The entrance fee for the Archaeological Park is €4.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Paphos. Ask the driver to take you to the entrance of the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park. From there, follow the signs to the House of Dionysus. A short taxi ride from most locations in Kato Paphos should cost approximately €8-12. The entrance fee for the Archaeological Park is €4.50.

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Discover more about House of Dionysus

Located within the Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the House of Dionysus stands as a testament to the grandeur of Roman Cyprus. This sprawling villa, covering 2,000 square meters, was built in the late 2nd century AD and likely belonged to a wealthy Roman family. The villa's rooms are arranged around a central courtyard, or atrium, a design characteristic of Roman houses, which served as the heart of the residence. The House of Dionysus is most celebrated for its stunning mosaic floors, which extend over 556 square meters. These mosaics, crafted from small limestone tiles, depict scenes from Greek mythology, including the triumph of Dionysus, as well as hunting and vintage scenes. The intricate details and vibrant colors of the mosaics offer a fascinating insight into the artistic and cultural influences of the time. Among the notable mosaics are those depicting Dionysus riding a panther, the myth of Narcissus, and the Four Seasons. Beneath the Roman villa, archaeologists discovered remains of an earlier 3rd-century BC Hellenistic villa, including a pebble mosaic representing the mythical sea-monster Scylla, providing a glimpse into the artistic evolution of the site. The House of Dionysus was destroyed and abandoned after earthquakes in the 4th century AD. The mosaics remained hidden until 1962 when a local farmer accidentally unearthed them. Today, the House of Dionysus is a must-see attraction for visitors to Paphos, offering a unique window into the world of Roman Cyprus.

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