Background

Paphos Archaeological Park: A Journey Through Time

Discover ancient Greek and Roman history at Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning mosaics and ancient ruins.

Explore the Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ruins from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. Discover Roman villas with intricate mosaics, ancient monuments, and a glimpse into Cyprus's rich history.

A brief summary to arceológiai park

  • QCGC+5P2, Paphos, CY

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat, especially during the summer months.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven and requires walking.
  • Bring water and snacks, as refreshments within the park are limited.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary between summer and winter seasons.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Paphos Harbour, head east along the coastal path for approximately 1 kilometer. You'll pass cafes and shops with sea views. Follow the signs for the Archaeological Park, leading directly to the entrance. The walk takes about 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Paphos Harbour, take bus 615 towards Coral Bay. Get off at the 'Archaeological Park' stop. The bus fare is approximately €1.50 for a one-way ticket. The park entrance is a short walk from the bus stop.

  • Car

    From Paphos city center, head towards the coast on Vasileos Georgiou Street. Turn left onto Poseidonos Avenue and follow it along the coast. After about 1.5 kilometers, signs will indicate the Archaeological Park. Turn right onto QCGC+5P2 for parking. Parking fees are approximately €2 for a few hours.

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Discover more about arceológiai park

The Paphos Archaeological Park, located in Kato Paphos near the harbor, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that brings together a wealth of historical treasures. This open-air museum showcases the heritage of various eras, from prehistoric times through the Middle Ages. The park includes monuments dating from the 4th century BC to the Middle Ages, with most remains dating to the Roman period. Founded in the late 4th century BC by Nicocles, the last king of Paphos, Nea Paphos (New Paphos) flourished as a prominent Hellenistic and Roman city. From the 2nd century BC to the 4th century AD, it served as the capital of Cyprus, becoming a hub of culture, trade, and religion. The park's main attractions include the intricate mosaic floors of four Roman villas: the House of Dionysos, Theseus, Aion, and Orpheus. These mosaics, considered among the finest in the Eastern Mediterranean, depict scenes from Greek mythology with excellent preservation and vibrant colors. Other significant monuments within the park include the Asklepieion (a temple dedicated to the god of medicine), the Odeon, the Agora, the Saranta Kolones (Forty Columns) Castle, the Limeniotissa ruins of an Early Christian Basilica, and the Tombs of the Kings. The Panagia Limeniotissa Basilica, built in the 5th century CE, was one of the earliest Christian churches in Cyprus but was destroyed during Arab raids in the 7th century. Visitors can explore the House of Dionysos, a Roman villa famous for its stunning mosaic floors depicting scenes of the god of wine, Dionysus, as well as other mythological and hunting scenes. The House of Theseus, once the residence of the Roman proconsul, features a mosaic of Theseus and the Minotaur. The House of Aion is known for its exceptional Roman mosaic floor with enigmatic symbolism, dating back to the mid-4th century AD. The Saranta Kolones Castle, meaning forty columns, is the ruins of a 13th-century castle built by the Lusignans on top of a previous 7th-century Byzantine fort.

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