Paphos

The city of Paphos is located on the southwest coast of the island and dates from 1400 BC. Local legend has it that the city is built on the spot where the Greek Goddess of Love Aphrodite was born. In Roman times the city was the capital of the island and the city retains many connections to this period. There was a devastating earthquake in the 4th century and over the following centuries the city survived and endured numerous foreign incursions and raids. Today Paphos is a popular seaside resort that is prospering from tourism and the resulting improvements in its infrastructure

Local excavations have unearthed spectacular mosaics including the House of Dionysus, Orpheau and Aion as well as the Villa of Theseus. Incredibly these mosaics, which date back to the 3rd-5th century, were buried for sixteen centuries but still remain in excellent condition. The impressive Tomb of the Kings ancient burial site is a maze of vaults and tunnels carved into the rock which housed the bodies of the islands rulers dating back to 4AD. An impressively preserved Byzantine fort stands proudly in the harbour overlooking the Mediterranean sea and a number of excellent restaurants are close by, offering a wonderful setting for al fresco lunches or dinner. In Paphos you will find that culture and convenience sit side by side in the old town with winding streets packed full of local craft shops, meze style tavernas and crumbling buildings. The main tourist areas can also cater for more modern tastes with a wealth of shops, boutiques, international restaurants, bars and cafes.