Paphos

Paphos is the capital city of the Paphos District, one of six districts on the island of Cyprus. The city lies on the island’s southwestern coast. From ancient times, Cyprus had an Old Paphos and a New Paphos. The current city is situated where New Paphos stood, and the city has the second largest of the island’s airports.

Old Paphos

Now, Old Paphos is famous as the site where Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of beauty and love, was born and so the worship of Aphrodite dominated the culture. In the 1st century A.D., Paul, the early Christian apostle, traveled to Paphos and it is known that it was while in this city that his name changed from Saul to Paul. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site today.

The region of Paphos has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. The elaborate ruins from the Greeks, Romans, the Classical and the Hellenistic periods include Neo Paphos’ lovely mosaics. Today, some of the famous landmarks of the area are the Tombs of the Kings, catacombs used by Christians, Paphos Castle and the Rock of Aphrodite.

Paphos Seaside Resort

Currently, Paphos is a popular seaside resort destination providing luxurious accommodation and much to see. The medieval port area has many fabulous hotels and cafes, and the port also is a major entertainment center. The main thoroughfare of the city that connects the two quarters is called St. Paul’s Avenue.

This scenic region has subtropical-Mediterranean weather and the rains come between November and March. Summers are generally rain-free. The area has long been known for its sports and today has teams of football, volleyball and basketball. Golf courses and tennis courts are found near the resorts. Fishing and other water sports are available in the harbor. Cityscape, forest, countryside, and coast add to the beauty of Paphos.