Paphos is a charming and colorful town on the west coast of Cyprus. It focuses around an attractive little harbor whose open air fish restaurants and taverns line a quayside with brightly colored fishing boats and pleasure crafts and an imposing fort. With a population of around 30,OOO.Paphos nestles in the lee of the western Troodos Mountains, which adds another dimension to this area of scenic beauty. The addition of its own international airport nearby has opened the Paphos area up and the resort is graced with some luxurious hotels along the coastline.

Paphos has an air of holiday charm combined with history. Olden day elegance is lent to the town by its classical style buildings in the upper part of town which leads to the shopping area. The lower part of town - known as Kato Paphos has a life of its own It is the home of the Harbor, fish taverns, souvenir shops and archaeological sites

Paphos is romantically associated in legend with Aphrodite, The Greek Goddess Of Love and Beauty, who legend says was born from the soft sea foam of the Paphian Sea.

The whole area abounds in historical and archaeological treasures. The most fascinating are the famous Roman Mosaics near the harbor. the 3rd century villas whose floors are brilliantly illustrated with colored mosaics depicting Greek Mythology are beautifully preserved after 16 centuries under the soil.

Another important site is that of The Tombs of The Kings, a large regal style burial ground of catacombs.

Further sites of interest in the Paphos area are St. Pauls Pillar ,The Fortress in the harbor and Petra Tou Romiou otherwise known as Aphrodites Rock, Birthplace of the Goddess Aphrodite

Related Pages

• About Cyprus
• Cyprus History
• Shops
• Market
• Chemists
• Banks
• Latchi
• The Akamas Area
• Nicosia
• The Troodos Mountains
• Limassol