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Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa: Echoes of Early Christianity

Discover the ruins of a 5th-century basilica in Paphos, where Byzantine artistry meets a turbulent history within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Explore the evocative ruins of the Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa, a 5th-century basilica dedicated to 'Our Lady of the Harbour,' located within the Paphos Archaeological Park. Discover remnants of colorful mosaics and restored columns, testaments to its rich Byzantine past and subsequent Arab and earthquake-related destruction.

A brief summary to Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa

  • 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

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the uneven terrain of the archaeological site.
  • Visit during the cooler morning or late afternoon hours, especially in summer, to avoid the midday heat.
  • Bring water, as the site is expansive and can get very hot; shaded areas are available, but limited.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Paphos Harbour, walk north towards the Paphos Archaeological Park. The Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa is located within the park, a short distance from the harbor and near several restaurants. The entrance to the park is a short walk from the bus station. Once inside the park, follow the signs to the basilica ruins.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus lines 612, 615, 631, 611 or 606 to the Paphos Archaeological Park. The closest bus stops are 'Λεωφ. Ποσειδώνος 1' and 'Λεωφ. Απ. Παύλου | ᴀᴘᴏsᴛᴏʟᴏs ᴘᴀᴠʟᴏs ᴀᴠᴇ.', both a 6-minute walk to the park entrance. From the bus station, walk towards the harbor; the park entrance will be on your right. A single bus fare within Paphos is approximately €2.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Paphos. A taxi ride from Paphos Harbour to the Paphos Archaeological Park is a short trip, costing approximately €5-€7. Alternatively, a taxi from Paphos International Airport to the park is approximately €20-€25. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa

The Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa, or 'Our Lady of the Harbour,' stands as a ruined testament to early Christianity in Paphos, Cyprus. Constructed in the early 5th century during the Byzantine era, the basilica was once a grand structure featuring three aisles, rows of marble columns, an apse, and a narthex, adorned with vibrant geometric mosaics. Over the centuries, the basilica faced numerous challenges. In 653 AD, Arab raids caused significant damage, leading to its repurposing as workshops, stables, and living quarters for the Arab garrison, who even erected a tower in the narthex. Though restored after the Arab retreat in 688 AD, it was later destroyed by an earthquake in 1159 AD, an event documented by Saint Neophytos. Further damage occurred due to another earthquake in 1222, leaving it in ruins. Rediscovered in 1937 and officially excavated in 1959, the basilica is now part of the Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the ruins, observe the remaining mosaics, and imagine the basilica's former splendor.

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