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Paphos Castle: A Coastal Fortress Through the Ages

Explore Paphos Castle: a historic fortress offering stunning harbor views, a glimpse into Cyprus's past, and a unique cultural experience.

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Paphos Castle, a historical landmark at the edge of Paphos Harbour, boasts a rich history dating back to its origins as a Byzantine fort. Rebuilt by the Lusignans in the 13th century and later by the Ottomans in the 16th century, the castle has served various purposes, from a defensive structure to a prison and even a salt storage facility. Today, it stands as a testament to Paphos's diverse past and offers visitors stunning views of the harbor and the Mediterranean Sea.

A brief summary to Paphos Castle

  • 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 you'll be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing stairs to reach the rooftop battlements.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Paphos Archaeological Park to explore more of the area's ancient history.
  • If visiting in September, check the schedule for the Paphos Aphrodite Festival to enjoy an opera performance in a unique historical setting.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Paphos Castle is located in the Kato Paphos area, right by the harbor, making it easily accessible by foot. From anywhere in the Kato Paphos area, a walk to the castle is generally short and pleasant. From the Kato Paphos Main Bus Station, it's a short, approximately 5-minute walk to the castle along the Coastal Broadwalk.

  • Public Transport

    If you're coming from other parts of Paphos, the local bus is a convenient and affordable option. Several bus routes serve the Kato Paphos area, including routes 610, 611 and 615. Take any bus heading to the 'Paphos Harbour Station' or 'Kato Paphos Main Bus Station'. From the bus station, it's a short, approximately 5-minute walk to the castle along the Coastal Broadwalk. A single bus fare costs €2, and a daily bus pass is available for €6.50.

  • Driving

    If driving, head towards Kato Paphos and follow signs for 'Paphos Harbour'. As you approach the harbor, signs will direct you to Paphos Castle. Ample free parking is available near the harbor, but it can get crowded during peak season. Arrive early to secure a parking spot. From the parking area, walk towards the Coastal Broadwalk, and the castle will be directly in front of you.

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Discover more about Paphos Castle

Standing proudly at the west end of Paphos Harbour, Paphos Castle is a striking reminder of the island's layered history. Originally built as a Byzantine fort to protect the harbor, it was rebuilt by the Lusignans in the 13th century after being destroyed by an earthquake in 1222. The Venetians later dismantled it, and in the 16th century, the Ottomans reconstructed it, leaving their mark on the structure that stands today. What remains is the Ottoman restoration from 1592 of the western Frankish tower, including Venetian additions. An inscription above the castle's single entrance commemorates this restoration. The main structure is a large square tower with an enclosed courtyard. The ground floor features a central hall with small rooms on each side, which were used as prison cells during Ottoman rule. Visitors can climb to the roof, where 12 battlements once held cannons. These cannons were removed when the British took over the island's administration in 1878, repurposing the castle as a salt store until 1935 when it was declared an Ancient Monument. Today, Paphos Castle is a popular tourist attraction that hosts various events and art exhibitions throughout the year, including the Paphos Aphrodite Festival, which features opera performances in the castle's open courtyard. Its location near other archaeological sites, such as the Paphos Archaeological Park, makes it a convenient destination for history enthusiasts.

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