Cyprus Island is a paradise for both its pristine beaches and archaeology. After all, according to ancient Greek mythology, Aphrodite, the Goddess of love was born here. This island is a wonderful getaway for both culture and natural beauty. I stopped here on my cruise at Limassol and enjoyed a wonderful island tour and love sharing tips. So, read on to learn more about a Cyprus Paphos archaeology tour, including Tombs of the Kings and Kouklia.
About Republic of Cyprus
The island country, Cyprus lies in the Mediterranean Sea. Its northeastern area is occupied by Turkey (recognized by United Nations as illegal). Nicosia is the nation’s largest and capital city. Evidence shows that Cyprus is a very ancient country, dating back to the 10th millennium BC. The Mycenaean Greeks settled Cyprus in the 2nd millennium BC. This continues to impact the culture, language and architecture. Today, a majority of Cypriots identify as ethnic Greek, and modern Greek is the official language. As a member of the EU, the Cyprus currency is Euro.
Cyprus flourished during the Bronze Age due to its large copper resources. After the Bronze Age collapse, Cyprus was occupied by numerous ancient powers. Cyprus became an independent sovereign state in 1960 after a War of Independence. Today, it’s a democracy with high-income economy. Cyprus is a major tourist destination with incredible beaches, culture and archeological sites, such as, Paphos Archeological Park, Tombs of the Kings and Kouklia.
My Tour from Limassol to Paphos District
As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I spent my day off while in Cyprus on a Paphos Archeological Tour. From Limassol the tour stopped at Aphrodite’s Beach, Paphos Archeological Park and Tombs of the Kings. It’s about an hour drive from Limassol to Paphos District. Afterwards, I walked in Limassol at the Old Port waterfront and Old Town.
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Cyprus Paphos Archaeology Tour
Paphos Archaeological Park &
Tombs of the Kings
First Stop at Aphrodite’s Beach (on the way to Paphos)
Travelling along the southern coast, from Limassol to Paphos, we stopped at a clifftop, overlooking Aphrodite’s Beach. The viewpoint is mesmerizing with the large rocks marking the mythological birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of Love.
Paphos Archaeological Park – Roman Villas
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered the most important archeological site on Cyprus. Still under excavation, Paphos Archaeological Park dates back from prehistoric times through the Middle Ages. Its most significant sites include 4 Roman villas, renowned for their outstanding and well-preserved mosaics and remains. Remember while touring that these pieces of art are over 2,000 years old. Since 1965, the Polish Archeological Mission of Warsaw University has been performing excavations at Paphos Park.
House of Dionysus (2nd – 4th century AD):
The House of Dionysus is the main attraction of Paphos. Enclosed inside one building, a raised walkway takes you through the complex, showcasing stunning floor mosaics. Overall, it consists of an atrium, garden pool and about forty rooms paved with ancient mosaics. This villa tour displays about 17 mosaic floors. The house is named after the numerous mosaic scenes depicting Dionysus, the “God of Wine.” For instance, themes include the triumph of Dionysus, Dionysus and Acme, Poseidon and Amymone and metamorphosis of Daphne. On the reception room floor is a series of hunting scenes. Other themes include Narcissus and the four seasons as well as Zeus and Ganymedes.
House of Theseus (2nd – 6th century AD):
This house is outdoors with a marked walkway. It’s named after the elaborate medallion mosaic of the mythic duel between Theseus and the Minotaur in the Labyrinth of Crete. This was my favorite archaeological gem for the entire tour. The detailed artwork and deep symbology is so inspiring. The next mosaic on the walkway is Achilles’ Bath and other mosaics remain covered. Also, in this house stand 6 intact columns.
House of Aion (3rd -5th century AD):
Named after the God of Eternity, Aion, only one part of this house has been excavated. Significant mosaics to not miss include the Bath of Aphrodite and the Beauty Contest between Cassiopeia and the Nereids.
House of Orpheus (2nd – 3rd century AD):
To the west of the House of Theseus, this villa features Orpheus, the God of music and poetry. Three mythological themes display here: “Orpheus and his Lyre,” “The Amazon” and “Hercules and the Lion of Nemea.”
Besides these main 4 houses, at Paphos there is also the House of Four Seasons. Plus, other excavations include a basilica, agora, theatre and 2 km away is the necropolis, “Tombs of the Kings.”
Tombs of the Kings
Cyprus Paphos Archaeology Tour
Just 2 km north of Paphos harbor is the Tombs of the Kings, a necropolis dating back to the 4th century BC. Carved out of rock, this contains ancient burial sites for Roman aristocrats. Along with Paphos and Kouklia, Tombs of the Kings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The underground tombs are carved in rock with some displaying frescoed walls and Doric columns.
Kouklia
Cyprus Paphos Archaeology Tour
My tour didn’t include a stop at Kouklia, but I wanted to suggest if for those that have the time. About 16 km east from Paphos is the village of Kouklia, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The entire area is a significant archaeological site. Its main attraction is the sanctuary of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Fertility. Nearby, a Roman villa features an uncovered mosaic, Leda and the Swan.
Limassol
After my tour, I had a couple hours in the Limassol Old Town and Old Port waterfront. In the Old Town is the Limassol Castle surrounded by a variety of restaurants and shops. Today, the castle remains as it was since last rebuilt in 1590 under Ottoman rule. Unfortunately, the castle was closed when I was there. Nearby, is the Old Port waterfront promenade with plenty of shops and restaurants.
Enjoy Cyprus!
Cyprus is an island from which myths are made with its pristine beaches, rich culture and deep archaeological gems. Even though I was just there one day, I feel my time was well spent. As always, I welcome comments or any suggestions on how best to enjoy this incredible island.
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