Paphos Archaeological Park
Pafos [Baf]
Paphos Archaeological Park, located in Kato Pafos near the harbor, is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases a vast array of monuments dating from prehistoric times through the Roman and Byzantine periods. The park is famed for its exceptionally well-preserved floor mosaics, which vividly depict scenes from Greek mythology and are considered among the finest in the eastern Mediterranean. Visitors can explore significant ancient structures such as the Odeon, an amphitheater carved into Fabrica Hill and used for performances until the 5th century AD, the Agora which served as the city's central forum surrounded by Corinthian columns, and the Asklepieion, a sanctuary dedicated to the god of medicine and a healing center. The site also includes the Saranta Kolones Castle, the Tombs of the Kings, and the ruins of the Limeniotissa Early Christian Basilica, reflecting the area's religious and cultural evolution. The park offers a unique journey through time, illustrating the region's rich heritage from the Stone Age to the Byzantine era. Its accessibility features and extended opening hours in summer make it a welcoming destination for a wide range of visitors.
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Tip: The best time to visit Paphos Archaeological Park is during the cooler months from mid-September to mid-April when opening hours are from 8:30 to 17:00, or in summer from 8:30 to 19:30 for longer daylight exploration. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets on-site and check for any changes in opening hours or fees before visiting. Partial wheelchair access is available with staff guidance. Downloading the official Pafos region app can enhance the experience with personalized information and multimedia guides.
Interesting facts
- •The mosaics at Paphos Archaeological Park are among the best-preserved and most vibrant in the eastern Mediterranean.
- •The Odeon amphitheater was carved into Fabrica Hill and used for performances until the 5th century AD.
- •The site includes the Tombs of the Kings, monumental underground tombs dating back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods.
- •Paphos was selected as a European Capital of Culture in 2017, highlighting its rich heritage.
- •The sanctuary of Aphrodite at Old Paphos nearby was considered the goddess's mythical birthplace, with continuous worship from the Neolithic through Roman times.
History
Paphos Archaeological Park encompasses sites that trace back to prehistoric times, reflecting continuous human activity and worship since the Neolithic period.
The area was a major center for the cult of Aphrodite, linked to myths of the goddess's birth and worship.
The Roman era brought significant development, including the construction of elaborate mosaics and public buildings like the Odeon and Agora.
The site remained important through the Byzantine period until pagan religions were outlawed in 391 AD, leading to the sanctuary's decline.
Over centuries, the park's monuments have survived earthquakes and changing civilizations, culminating in its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980 for its outstanding archaeological and cultural value.
Place Guide
Odeon2nd century AD
A 2nd-century AD amphitheater carved into Fabrica Hill, built of carved limestone and used for Roman performances until the 5th century AD. It is extensively restored and hosts open-air cultural events today.
Agora
The central forum of the ancient city, surrounded by four porticoes of granite columns with white marble Corinthian capitals. It was the civic and commercial heart of Paphos.
Asklepieion
A sanctuary and medical healing center dedicated to Asclepios, the god of medicine, located south of the Odeon within the archaeological park.
Saranta Kolones CastleMedieval period
Ruins of a medieval castle known as the Forty Columns, part of the park's broad historical timeline from prehistoric to medieval periods.
Tombs of the KingsHellenistic and Roman periods
A monumental underground necropolis dating back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods, famous for its large, elaborate tombs carved out of solid rock.
Limeniotissa BasilicaEarly Christian period
Ruins of an Early Christian basilica within the park, reflecting the religious transition during the Byzantine era.
Contact
Phone: 26 306217
