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Kato Pafos Archaeological Park: A Journey Through Time

Explore ancient Paphos: Discover Roman mosaics, Hellenistic ruins, and UNESCO-listed monuments in this captivating Cypriot archaeological park.

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Explore the Kato Pafos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980, showcasing ruins from the 4th century BC to the Middle Ages. Discover Roman villas with intricate mosaic floors depicting scenes from Greek mythology, and wander through ancient monuments in this historically rich coastal park.

A brief summary to Kato Pafos Archaeological Park

  • Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the park covers a large area and requires a lot of walking.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially during summer, to avoid the midday heat.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade within the park.
  • Consider downloading a map or audio guide to enhance your understanding of the site.
  • Entry to the Archaeological Park of Kato Paphos is free for all persons over 65 and for all students, irrespective of their nationality; remember to bring an official ID.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Paphos Harbour bus station, walk straight towards the harbor area. The entrance to the Archaeological Park will be on your right, a short walk from the station.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus line 615 from the Coral Bay area or any bus heading towards Paphos Harbour. Get off at the Paphos Harbour bus station, and the park entrance is a short walk away. A single fare is approximately €1.50.

  • Taxi

    From Paphos city center, a taxi ride to the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park takes about 10 minutes. The approximate fare is €8-€12. Taxis are readily available throughout the city.

  • Driving

    Drive towards the Paphos Harbour area. There is a parking lot near the Promenade, a few meters from the park entrance. Parking fees range from €2-€5 for a few hours.

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Discover more about Kato Pafos Archaeological Park

The Kato Pafos Archaeological Park, located near Paphos Harbour, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of immense historical significance. The park contains ruins dating from the 4th century BC to the Middle Ages, offering a glimpse into Cyprus's rich past. Founded in the late 4th century BC by King Nicocles, Kato Paphos, or Nea Paphos (New Paphos), became a prominent center of culture, trade, and religion. From the 2nd century BC to the 4th century AD, it served as the capital of Cyprus. The park's main attractions are the remains of Roman villas, particularly the Houses of Dionysos, Theseus, Aion, and Orpheus, adorned with stunning mosaic floors depicting scenes from Greek mythology. The House of Dionysos features mosaics illustrating the god of wine, while the House of Theseus, believed to have been the residence of a Roman proconsul, contains mosaics depicting Theseus battling the Minotaur. The House of Aion showcases intricate mosaics from the mid-4th century AD, and the House of Orpheus displays mythological representations. In addition to the villas, the park includes other significant monuments such as the Asklepieion, Odeon, Agora, Saranta Kolones Castle, the ruins of the Early Christian Basilica at Limeniotissa, and the Tombs of the Kings. The Saranta Kolones Castle, dating back to the 13th century, was built by the Lusignans on the site of a former Byzantine fort. Visitors can explore the park's vast area, taking in the blend of Greek and Roman history. The park is still under excavation, revealing more treasures from a once-great civilization.

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