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Petra tou Romiou: Aphrodite's Legendary Birthplace

Discover the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, a stunning coastal landmark steeped in legend and natural beauty on the Paphos coast of Cyprus.

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Petra tou Romiou, also known as Aphrodite's Rock, is a captivating sea stack off the coast of Paphos, Cyprus. Legend says it's where Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, was born from sea foam. The area boasts stunning natural beauty and mythological significance, attracting visitors worldwide.

A brief summary to Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite's Rock)

  • MJ7G+CV7, Kouklia, CY
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during sunset for breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon behind Aphrodite's Rock.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the beach is pebbled.
  • Be cautious when swimming due to strong currents and rough seas.
  • Use the underground tunnel to access the beach safely, avoiding the hazardous road.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby archaeological site of Kouklia, the ancient Temple of Aphrodite.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Paphos, take the 630 or 631 bus to Petra tou Romiou. The 630 departs from 7 Elementary School - Agios Kendeas 1, while the 631 departs from Paphos Harbour Station. A single fare costs approximately €2. The journey takes around 40-45 minutes. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the beach via an underpass.

  • Car

    If driving from Paphos or Limassol, take the A6 highway and follow the signs to Petra tou Romiou. Exit onto the B6 road. The drive from Paphos is about 20 minutes (25 km), and from Limassol, it's about 30-35 minutes (42 km). There is a free parking area opposite the road from the beach. Use the underpass to reach the beach safely.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from both Paphos and Limassol. A taxi from Paphos to Petra tou Romiou costs approximately €30-€40 and takes about 18 minutes. From Limassol, expect a slightly higher fare and a longer journey time.

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Discover more about Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite's Rock)

Petra tou Romiou, or Aphrodite's Rock, is a renowned geological formation and mythical site located along the southwest coast of Cyprus, in the Paphos district. This iconic sea stack is best known as the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty. According to ancient myth, Aphrodite emerged from the sea foam (aphros) at this very spot, forever linking the island to her name. The legend recounts that Uranus' severed genitals were cast into the sea by his son Cronus, creating a frothy foam from which Aphrodite arose, fully formed and radiant. She was then carried ashore on a seashell. The site's Greek name, Petra tou Romiou, meaning "Rock of the Greek," however, tells a different story. It refers to the Byzantine hero Digenis Akritas, a warrior of mixed Greek and Arab heritage who defended the Byzantine Empire from invaders. Legend says Digenis hurled massive rocks from the Troodos Mountains to fend off Saracen ships, with Petra tou Romiou being one of these rocks. Visitors are drawn to Petra tou Romiou not only by its mythological significance but also by its breathtaking coastal scenery. The rugged coastline, dramatic rock formations, and crystal-clear waters create a mesmerizing landscape, particularly stunning at sunset. While swimming around the rock is discouraged due to rough seas, some believe doing so three times brings blessings of eternal youth, beauty, love, fertility, and good luck. Though climbing the rock is not permitted, the area offers a restaurant, a tourist pavilion, and the nearby Aphrodite Hills resort.

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