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Paphos Mosaics: Ancient Art Underfoot

Discover stunning Roman mosaics in Paphos, Cyprus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing ancient artistry and mythology.

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The Paphos Mosaics, located within the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, are a stunning collection of Roman mosaics dating back to the 3rd and 4th centuries AD. Discovered in 1962, these well-preserved mosaics once adorned the villas of wealthy Roman citizens and offer a glimpse into the island's rich history and Greco-Roman culture.

A brief summary to Paphos Mosaics

  • Pafias Afroditis 19, Paphos, 8041, CY
  • Monday 8:30 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-7 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 8:30 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven ancient pathways.
  • Bring water, especially during the summer months, as the site offers limited shade.
  • Consider purchasing a multi-day entry card from the Department of Antiquities for access to multiple sites.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're near Paphos Harbour, walk east along the coastal promenade. The entrance to the Paphos Archaeological Park, where the mosaics are located, is about a 15-20 minute walk. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses frequently run from various parts of Paphos to the harbor area. Bus routes 615 and 611 are options. A single bus fare is about €2. Disembark at the bus stop near the Paphos Archaeological Park and follow the signs to the entrance.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Paphos. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Paphos Archaeological Park will typically cost around €8-€12. Ensure the taxi is properly marked and the driver uses a meter.

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Discover more about Paphos Mosaics

The Paphos Mosaics are a highlight of the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Paphos Harbour. These mosaics, considered among the finest in the Eastern Mediterranean, were uncovered by chance in 1962 when a farmer plowing his field made the initial discovery. The park is home to the remains of four Roman villas: the House of Dionysos, the House of Theseus, the House of Aion, and the House of Orpheus. Each villa features intricate floor mosaics depicting scenes from Greek mythology, daily life, and the natural world. The House of Dionysos is the largest, with mosaics showcasing mythological, vintage, and hunting scenes. The House of Theseus is named for its mosaic of Theseus battling the Minotaur, while the House of Aion boasts spectacular figural panels depicting scenes such as the birth of Dionysos and the beauty contest between Cassiopeia and the Nereids. The House of Orpheus features mosaics of Orpheus among the beasts and Hercules with the Lion of Nemea. Visitors can explore the well-preserved mosaics and other ruins within the archaeological park, gaining insights into the lives of the Roman elite who once inhabited these villas. Information panels provide context and detail about the mosaics and the historical significance of the site. The park also includes other monuments from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages, such as the Asklepieion, the Odeon, the Agora, the Saranta Kolones (Forty Columns) Castle, and the Limeniotissa ruins of an Early Christian Basilica.

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