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Petra tou Romiou: Aphrodite's Legendary Birthplace

Discover the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite at Petra tou Romiou, a stunning Cyprus landmark steeped in ancient legends and natural beauty.

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Petra tou Romiou, also known as Aphrodite's Rock, is a captivating sea stack off the coast of Paphos, Cyprus, steeped in mythology. Legend claims it as the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, making it a must-see for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance.

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, casting a golden glow over Aphrodite's Rock.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the beach is pebbly. Access to the beach is via a tunnel under the road.
  • Be cautious when swimming; the sea can be rough. Swimming around the rock is said to bring good luck in love and beauty.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Kouklia, the site of Old Paphos, to see the ruins of the ancient Temple of Aphrodite.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Paphos, take the Line 630 bus towards Limassol. The bus departs from the 7 Elementary School - Agios Kendeas 1 and arrives directly at Petra tou Romiou. The journey takes approximately 41 minutes and costs €2. Buses operate five times a day from Monday to Saturday. From Kouklia, the Line 631 bus will take you to Petra tou Romiou in about 14 minutes for €2. The nearest bus station to Petra tou Romiou is just a 4-minute walk away.

  • Car

    From Paphos, drive along the A6 highway towards Limassol. Take the exit towards Kouklia (B6) and follow the signs to Petra tou Romiou. The drive is approximately 25 km and takes about 20 minutes. There is a free parking area available on the opposite side of the road from the beach. Be careful when crossing the road; use the underground tunnel to reach the beach safely.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Paphos. A taxi ride to Petra tou Romiou takes approximately 18 minutes and costs between €30 and €40. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

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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 a coastal landmark in Cyprus, celebrated as the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite. According to legend, the goddess of love and beauty emerged from the sea foam at this very spot after Uranus's testicles were thrown into the sea by his son Cronus. The name 'Aphrodite' itself is derived from 'aphros,' the Greek word for foam. Beyond its connection to Aphrodite, Petra tou Romiou is also linked to Digenes Akritas, a Byzantine hero. Legend says that Digenes hurled massive rocks from the Troodos Mountains to fend off Saracen invaders, with Petra tou Romiou being one of these rocks. This blend of pagan mythology and Christian folklore enriches the site's cultural significance. Today, Petra tou Romiou attracts visitors with its breathtaking coastal views and the allure of its legends. The rugged cliffs, the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, and the unique rock formations create a picturesque setting, especially during sunset. While swimming around the rock is said to bring good fortune in love and eternal beauty, the sea can be rough, so caution is advised. Climbing the rock is not permitted. Visitors can explore the area via a tunnel that leads to the beach. Nearby amenities include a restaurant, a tourist pavilion, and the Aphrodite Hills resort. The adjacent National Forest Park offers recreational facilities such as picnic areas and nature trails.

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