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Petra tou Romiou: Aphrodite's Mystical Birthplace

Discover the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite at Petra tou Romiou, a stunning coastal landmark in Cyprus steeped in ancient legends and natural beauty.

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Petra tou Romiou, also known as Aphrodite's Rock, is a captivating sea stack off the coast of Paphos, Cyprus. Legend says it's where Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, was born from sea foam. With stunning coastal views and mythological significance, it's a must-see for tourists.

A brief summary to Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite's Rock)

  • MJ7G+CV7, Kouklia, CY

Local tips

  • Visit at sunset for breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon, casting vibrant colors across the sky and sea.
  • Take caution if swimming, as the waters around Petra tou Romiou can be rough and the currents strong.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the beach is pebbled.
  • Explore the nearby village of Kouklia and visit the ruins of the ancient Temple of Aphrodite.
  • Use the underpass to access the beach safely from the parking area.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Paphos, take the A6 highway towards Limassol. Near Kouklia, you'll see signs for Petra tou Romiou. Exit the highway and turn towards the coast. Follow the road to the parking area. Parking is free. From the parking area, use the underground tunnel to access the beach.

  • Public Transport

    From Paphos, take the Line 630 bus from '7 Elementary School - Agios Kendeas 1' to Petra tou Romiou. The bus operates five times a day, and the journey takes approximately 41 minutes. The ticket costs around €2. From Tombs of the Kings 1, you can take the line 631 bus to Petra tou Romiou. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 39 minutes and costs about €4.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Paphos. A taxi ride from Paphos to Petra tou Romiou takes about 18 minutes and costs approximately €30-€40.

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Discover more about Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite's Rock)

Petra tou Romiou, or Aphrodite's Rock, is a renowned geological formation and one of the most iconic destinations in Cyprus. Located off the southwest coast near Kouklia, in the Paphos district, this breathtaking site is steeped in mythology and natural beauty, attracting visitors worldwide. According to Greek mythology, Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, emerged from the sea foam at this very spot. The legend tells of Uranus's severed body parts falling into the sea, creating a foam from which Aphrodite was born, rising fully grown and carried ashore on a shell. This version of Aphrodite's birth is strongly tied to Petra tou Romiou, although other accounts exist. The name 'Petra tou Romiou,' meaning 'Rock of the Roman' or 'Rock of the Greek,' is linked to the Byzantine hero Digenis Akritas. Legend says that Digenis, defending Cyprus from Saracen invaders, hurled massive rocks into the sea, one of which became Petra tou Romiou. Another nearby rock is known as Saracen Rock. Today, Petra tou Romiou is a popular tourist destination offering stunning views, especially at sunset. While swimming around the rock is said to bring blessings like eternal beauty, good luck, fertility, and true love, the sea can be rough, requiring caution. Climbing the rock is not permitted. Visitors can explore the beach via a tunnel under the highway and enjoy amenities like parking, a restaurant, and a gift shop. Nearby attractions include the ancient Temple of Aphrodite in Kouklia.

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