Tombs of the Kings, Cyprus Travel Guide

Explore the ancient majesty of the Tombs of the Kings in Cyprus, a UNESCO site that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning coastal views.

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Tombs of the Kings

The Tombs of the Kings in Cyprus is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into the ancient world. Located near Paphos, this site features a collection of underground tombs dating back to the 4th century BC. Despite the name, no actual kings were buried here; the tombs were the final resting places for high-ranking officials and aristocrats of the time. As you explore the site, you'll be struck by the grandeur and intricate design of these tombs. Carved out of solid rock and adorned with Doric columns, they reflect the architectural influences of both Greek and Egyptian cultures. The sheer size and complexity of the tombs are awe-inspiring and provide a unique insight into the burial practices and social hierarchies of ancient Cyprus. The site is not just for history buffs. The Tombs of the Kings are surrounded by stunning coastal scenery, making it a perfect spot for photography and quiet contemplation. The area is well-preserved, offering a peaceful and reflective atmosphere. Whether you're interested in ancient history, architecture, or simply looking for a serene place to visit, the Tombs of the Kings is a must-see destination.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tombs of the Kings.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the midday heat.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the summer months.
Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the tombs.
Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby Paphos Archaeological Park for a more comprehensive understanding of the area's history.

Explore Tombs of the Kings: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Tombs of the Kings

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The Little Fisherman

Experience the scenic beauty and cultural heritage at The Little Fisherman, a charming statue overlooking the harbor in Paphos, Cyprus.

4.7

Λιμανάκι Πάφου

Explore Paphos Harbour: where ancient history meets modern charm, offering culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty on the sun-kissed shores of Cyprus.

4.4

Aphrodite Sunset

Experience breathtaking sunset views and mythological charm at Aphrodite Sunset, a must-visit coastal jewel in Paphos, Cyprus.

4.7

Kato Paphos - Ta Mpania

Discover the ancient wonders of Kato Paphos - Ta Mpania, a UNESCO World Heritage site with history, culture, and coastal views.

4.5

Best landmarks in Tombs of the Kings

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Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite's Rock)

Explore Petra tou Romiou, the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, where stunning coastal views meet ancient mythology and cultural heritage.

4.6

Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos

Discover the Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos in Cyprus, where ancient history, stunning mosaics, and cultural treasures await every visitor.

4.5

Archaeological Site of the Tombs of the Kings

Explore the Archaeological Site of the Tombs of the Kings, a captivating historical landmark in Cyprus filled with ancient tombs and breathtaking views.

4.4

Paphos Castle

Discover the historical beauty of Paphos Castle, a captivating landmark overlooking the Mediterranean, rich in history and stunning views.

4.1

Best restaurants in Tombs of the Kings

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The Harbour

Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at The Harbour in Paphos – where every meal is complemented by breathtaking sea views.

4.3

O'Neill's Irish Bar and Grill

Discover authentic Irish cuisine at O'Neill's Bar & Grill in Paphos – where warmth meets flavor!

4.4

Dias Zeus Restaurant

Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Dias Zeus Restaurant in Paphos - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.6

The Windmill

Discover delightful flavors at The Windmill, where traditional Cypriot cuisine meets modern dining in the heart of Paphos.

4.7

Best bars in Tombs of the Kings

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O'Neill's Irish Bar and Grill

Discover the heart of Ireland in Paphos at O'Neill's Irish Bar and Grill, where authentic cuisine meets vibrant atmosphere.

4.4

The Wooden Pub

Discover the heart of Paphos nightlife at The Wooden Pub, where unique beers, friendly faces, and unforgettable moments await.

4.6

Pit Stop Pub

Discover the lively charm of Pit Stop Pub in Paphos, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await every visitor.

4.5

Boulevard Bistro Wine Bar

Discover the delightful fusion of exceptional cuisine, fine wines, and live music at Boulevard Bistro Wine Bar in the heart of Paphos, Cyprus.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Tombs of the Kings

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Rainbow Club Paphos

Dance the night away at Rainbow Club Paphos – the ultimate nightlife destination with electrifying music and a vibrant atmosphere.

3.9

Loft Club

Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Loft Club Paphos, a premier destination for dance and entertainment in Cyprus.

4.0

Flairs

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Flairs, Paphos' premier night club, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments await.

3.9

Planeta Karaoke Club

Experience the thrill of karaoke at Planeta Karaoke Club, Paphos' premier nightlife destination for music lovers and party enthusiasts.

3.8

Best shops in Tombs of the Kings

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Kings Avenue Mall

Discover a world of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Kings Avenue Mall in Paphos, Cyprus - the ultimate retail destination for tourists.

4.5

The Place

Discover authentic Cypriot crafts and art at The Place, Paphos' cultural hub for unique gifts and local treasures.

4.6

Crystal Shop Cyprus

Explore the magical world of crystals and spiritual supplies at Crystal Shop Cyprus, your one-stop shop for unique gifts and aromatic delights.

4.8

JACK & JONES

Explore the latest men's fashion trends at JACK & JONES in Paphos, Cyprus, where style meets quality in a vibrant shopping environment.

4.8

Explore Tombs of the Kings on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Tombs of the Kings, mapped for you.

Tombs of the Kings Essentials

Tombs of the Kings is located on the outskirts of Paphos, a city on the southwest coast of Cyprus. The nearest airport is Paphos International Airport, situated about 15 kilometers from the site. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use public transportation to reach the Tombs of the Kings. There are also bus services that connect Paphos with other major cities in Cyprus, including Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca.
Paphos is well-served by a network of public buses, which are a convenient and economical way to get around. The bus routes cover most of the city and its surrounding areas, including the Tombs of the Kings. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. If you prefer more flexibility, consider renting a car, which will allow you to explore the region at your own pace.
The official currency of Cyprus is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Paphos. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in case you visit more remote areas where card payments may not be possible. ATMs are plentiful in Paphos, so withdrawing cash should not be an issue.
Paphos, including the area around the Tombs of the Kings, is generally safe for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving personal belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded areas to protect against pickpocketing. There are no specific neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number can be used for police, fire, and medical emergencies. Paphos has several medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, where you can seek treatment if needed. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Additionally, pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly and be quiet and respectful. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate of other passengers. Offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers if needed. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'yasas' (Greek for hello). Handshakes are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality as it is considered impolite.
To experience Tombs of the Kings and Paphos like a local, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon when the site is less crowded. This will also help you avoid the midday heat. Engage with local guides who can provide in-depth historical context and stories. Don't miss the nearby Paphos Archaeological Park, which houses ancient ruins and mosaics. For a unique culinary experience, try local tavernas offering traditional Cypriot dishes such as Souvlaki and Halloumi cheese.

When is the best time to visit Tombs of the Kings?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Tombs of the Kings

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Tombs of the Kings. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloΓειά σου
  [Yia sou]
- GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
- YesΝαι
  [Ne]
- NoΌχι
  [Ochi]
- Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
- Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
- Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
- How are you?Πώς είσαι;
  [Pos ise;]
- Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσύ;
  [Kala. Esi;]
- Do you speak English?Μιλάς Αγγλικά;
  [Milas Agglika;]
- I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menou, parakalo]
- I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
- Cheers!ΥΓΕΙΑ!
  [Yia]
- I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]
- Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
- Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
- Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
- Call a doctor!Καλέστε έναν γιατρό!
  [Kaleste enan giatro!]
- I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hafi]
- I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Ime arrostos]
- I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
- I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
- How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi;]
- That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
- Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na meiosete tin timi;]
- What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine;]
- It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
- Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (10)]
- MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
- AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
- EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
- YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
- TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
- TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
- 1Ένα
  [Ena]
- 2Δύο
  [Dio]
- 3Τρία
  [Tria]
- 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
- 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
- 6Έξι
  [Exi]
- 7Επτά
  [Epta]
- 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
- 9Εννέα
  [Ennea]
- 10Δέκα
  [Deka]
- Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...;]
- What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi;]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti);]
- When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio);]
- A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για ....)
  [Ena isitirio (ya ....)]

History of Tombs of the Kings

The Tombs of the Kings, or 'Tafoi ton Vasileon,' is a large necropolis located near Paphos in Cyprus. This UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods, and it is known for its impressive underground tombs that were carved out of solid rock. The site spans over an area of approximately 2 kilometers and showcases an extraordinary level of craftsmanship and architectural design.
The Tombs of the Kings were constructed during the Hellenistic period, around the 4th century BCE to the 3rd century BCE. This era was marked by the influence of Greek culture following the conquests of Alexander the Great. The tombs were built for high-ranking officials and noblemen of Paphos, reflecting the wealth and status of the individuals buried there.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Tombs of the Kings is their architectural design. The tombs are characterized by their Doric columns, frescoed walls, and intricate carvings. Many of the tombs are designed to resemble the houses of the living, featuring peristyles (columned courtyards) and symmetrical layouts. The use of natural light within the tombs is also noteworthy, as some chambers have openings that allow sunlight to illuminate the interior.
During the Roman period, from the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE, the Tombs of the Kings continued to be used and expanded. Roman influences can be seen in the decorative elements and the addition of new tombs. The Romans introduced new burial practices and artistic styles, contributing to the evolving landscape of the necropolis.
Despite the grand name 'Tombs of the Kings,' there is no evidence to suggest that any actual kings were buried here. The name likely arose from the tombs' impressive scale and grandeur. The site was meant for Paphos' elite class rather than royalty, but the moniker has persisted through the centuries, adding a layer of mystique to the site.
The Tombs of the Kings were rediscovered in the early 20th century, leading to extensive archaeological excavations. The pioneering work of archaeologists such as Menelaos Markides and others brought the site to international attention. Excavations revealed a wealth of artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, and sculptures, offering valuable insights into the funerary practices and daily life of ancient Paphos.
In 1980, the Tombs of the Kings, along with the nearby Paphos Archaeological Park, were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. This designation recognizes the site's outstanding cultural and historical significance. Efforts have been made to preserve the tombs and the surrounding area, ensuring that future generations can continue to explore and appreciate this remarkable archaeological treasure.
The Tombs of the Kings hold immense cultural significance, serving as a testament to the rich history and heritage of Cyprus. The site offers a glimpse into the ancient world, showcasing the craftsmanship, artistry, and architectural ingenuity of past civilizations. It continues to be a source of fascination for historians, archaeologists, and visitors from around the globe.