Paphos: A Journey Through Time by the Mediterranean Sea

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Ya sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Andio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είσαι;
  [Pos ise;]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσύ;
  [Kala. Esi;]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε Αγγλικά;
  [Milate Agglika;]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menou, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!ΥΓΕΙΑ!
  [Yia!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosou, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε έναν γιατρό!
  [Kaleste enan yatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Ime arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει αυτό;
  [Poso kostizi afto;]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na miosete tin timi;]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine;]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (10)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Aurio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dyo]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
• 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
• 9Εννέα
  [Ennea]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένας/η...
  [Pou ine enas/i...]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi;]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti);]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio);]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για ....)
  [Ena isitirio (ya ....)]

According to Greek mythology, Paphos is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. Legend has it that she emerged from the sea foam near the rock formation known as Petra tou Romiou, also called Aphrodite's Rock. This myth has made Paphos a significant site for ancient worship and a popular destination for modern tourists seeking to connect with the island's mythological past.

Ancient Paphos, also known as Palaepaphos, was one of the most important religious centers of the ancient world. It was located near the modern village of Kouklia. The Sanctuary of Aphrodite, dating back to the 12th century BC, was a major pilgrimage site. The ruins of the sanctuary, along with various artifacts, offer a glimpse into the religious practices and architectural styles of the time.

During the Hellenistic and Roman periods, Paphos flourished as a cultural and political hub. The city was redesigned in the 4th century BC with a new layout and monumental buildings. Notable sites from this era include the House of Dionysus and the House of Theseus, which are renowned for their intricate mosaics depicting scenes from mythology. Paphos also became the capital of Cyprus during the Roman era, further cementing its importance.

In the Early Christian and Byzantine periods, Paphos continued to be a significant urban center. The ancient city was adorned with basilicas and churches, many of which featured beautiful mosaics. One of the most remarkable sites is the Panagia Chrysopolitissa, a basilica built in the 4th century AD. The site also includes St. Paul's Pillar, where it is believed that the Apostle Paul was flogged before converting the Roman governor to Christianity.

During the medieval period, Paphos faced numerous challenges, including invasions by Arab forces and natural disasters like earthquakes. Despite these difficulties, the city remained resilient. The Byzantine Castle of Paphos, also known as Saranda Kolones, was constructed to defend the harbor. Though it was largely destroyed by an earthquake in 1222, its ruins still stand as a testament to the city's strategic importance.

Paphos came under Ottoman rule in 1571, marking a new chapter in its history. The Ottomans constructed public buildings and mosques, some of which still exist today. In 1878, Cyprus was handed over to the British Empire, leading to significant developments in infrastructure and governance. The British influence is still visible in Paphos, particularly in its colonial-era buildings and administrative structures.

In the modern era, Paphos has transformed into a vibrant city blending history with contemporary life. In 1980, the archaeological sites of Paphos were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, recognizing their global significance. The city has since become a major tourist destination, celebrated for its well-preserved ruins, beautiful coastline, and rich cultural heritage.

Paphos is served by Paphos International Airport (PFO), which is located approximately 15 kilometers from the city center. Direct flights to Paphos are available from many European cities. Alternatively, you can fly into Larnaca International Airport (LCA) and take a bus or taxi to Paphos, which is about a 1.5-hour drive. Regular intercity bus services connect Paphos to other major cities in Cyprus, including Limassol and Nicosia.

Paphos has a reliable public transportation system, including local buses that connect major attractions and neighborhoods. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the streets or booked via phone. Car rentals are popular and allow for greater flexibility in exploring the region. For short distances, walking is a feasible option, especially in the city center and the Kato Paphos area.

The official currency of Cyprus is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available throughout Paphos, making it convenient to withdraw cash as needed. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in areas where card payments might not be accepted, such as local markets.

Paphos is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any tourist destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. While Paphos has a low crime rate, areas like Kato Paphos can experience petty crimes such as pickpocketing. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Paphos General Hospital provides medical care for emergencies, and there are several private clinics available as well. Pharmacies are plentiful and can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Paphos like a local, visit the Old Town and its local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Cypriot goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Paphos Archaeological Park and the Tombs of the Kings, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For a unique experience, attend a local festival or event to immerse yourself in Cypriot culture.