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Paphos Medieval Tower: A Coastal Sentinel Through Time

Explore Paphos Medieval Tower: A historic castle offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Cyprus's rich past by the harbor.

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The Paphos Medieval Tower, also known as Paphos Castle, stands proudly at the edge of Paphos Harbour. Originally a Byzantine fort, it has been rebuilt and modified by various rulers, including the Lusignans, Venetians, and Ottomans. Today, it's a landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into Cyprus's rich history.

A brief summary to Paphos Medieval Tower

  • Β6 19, Paphos, 8100, CY

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be climbing stairs to reach the top of the tower.
  • Visit during the cooler months or early morning/late afternoon in the summer to avoid the heat.
  • Check for events happening at the castle, such as the Paphos Aphrodite Festival, for a unique cultural experience.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along the Paphos Harbour promenade for a scenic experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere along the Paphos Harbour promenade, the Paphos Medieval Tower is easily accessible on foot. Simply follow the promenade west towards the end of the harbor. The tower is a prominent landmark and is hard to miss. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the Paphos Harbour area. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route from your location. From the main bus stops at the harbor, the tower is a short walk away. A single bus fare is approximately €2.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Paphos. A short taxi ride from the city center or nearby hotels to Paphos Harbour and the Medieval Tower will typically cost between €8 and €12, depending on the distance and time of day.

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Discover more about Paphos Medieval Tower

Paphos Medieval Tower, a robust structure at the western end of Paphos Harbour, encapsulates centuries of Cypriot history. Its story began as a Byzantine fort, designed to protect the harbor from invaders. The tower has seen numerous iterations, reflecting the island's turbulent past. In the 13th century, the Lusignan dynasty rebuilt and expanded the fort, adding what were known as the 'Genoese Towers'. These towers played a crucial role in defending the city against the Genoese in 1373. However, an earthquake in 1222 destroyed the initial structure, known as Saranta Kolones, which the castle replaced. The Venetians maintained the castle, but it was later dismantled in 1570 during the Ottoman invasion. The Ottomans reconstructed the tower in 1592, incorporating Venetian additions. An inscription above the entrance commemorates this restoration. The ground floor once served as prison cells during Ottoman rule, while the upper level accommodated a military garrison. During British colonization, the castle was repurposed as a salt storage facility. Declared an Ancient Monument in 1935, the Paphos Castle has undergone several restoration projects. Today, visitors can explore its interior, climb to the roof, and enjoy panoramic views of the harbor and the city. The castle also serves as a venue for cultural events, including the Paphos Aphrodite Festival, where operas are performed against the backdrop of this historic structure.

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