Overview:

Paphos Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the western coast of Cyprus. The park is a collection of archaeological ruins and monuments from the Roman, Byzantine, Medieval and Ottoman periods. The area includes a large open-air theatre, the House of Dionysos, the Odeon, the Pillar of St. Paul, the remains of Roman villas, Byzantine fortifications and other important archaeological sites. It is one of the most interesting and important cultural heritage sites in the country. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Cyprus
Prominent Features:

1. Painted Stoa: The painted Stoa is an ancient portico dating back to the Hellenistic period and is believed to have been a shopping arcade. 2. Odeon: An Odeon is an ancient Greek theatre and one can be found in the Paphos Archaeological Park. 3. Tombs of the Kings: The most notable feature of the park is the Tombs of the Kings – a complex of ancient royal tombs that are thought to date back to the 4th century BC. 4. House of Dionysus: This finely-preserved mansion is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Paphos. It dates back to the 2nd century AD and features stunning mosaic floors. 5. Ancient Stadium: There is also an ancient stadium in the park, built in the 3rd century BC and used for ceremonies, sporting events and other public gatherings. 6. Ancient Roman Theatre: The park also boasts an intact Ancient Roman theatre, believed to be the second oldest surviving public theatre in the Mediterranean. 7. Mosaics: The park also contains an array of beautiful mosaics, some of which date back to the 2nd century BC. 8. Ancient Aqueducts: Also in the park, you can find ancient aqueducts that were used to supply water to local towns and villages. This national monument of Cyprus portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Paphos Archaeological Park is located in the city of Paphos, Cyprus. It is one of the few such parks in the world and it has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. The site's remains and artifacts span from the Neolithic period to the Roman era and encompass the archaeological sites of Nea Paphos, Kato Paphos, Palaepaphos, and the Tombs of the Kings. The archaeological park is historically significant due to the presence of the Greek goddess Aphrodite. In mythology, Aphrodite is said to have emerged from the waves in a beautiful scallop shell near Paphos. This legend has played a large role in drawing visitors to this unique archaeological park in search of ancient history and mythology. The earliest archaeological remains date to the Neolithic period and have been discovered in Kato Paphos at the site of Kouklia. From the Early and Late Bronze Ages until the Mycenaean and Hellenistic periods, the inhabitants of Paphos built a significant number of settlements throughout the area. Also, from the 9th century BC onwards, the area was gradually transformed into a major urban and commercial center, culminating in the Roman period when the city became the capital of Cyprus from the 2nd century AD until the 4th century. The park also features the Tombs of the Kings, a series of five underground tombs that are remarkable examples of the Hellenistic burial customs. These tombs, which are believed to have belonged to noble Ptolemaic families, are especially noteworthy due to their remarkable preservation. Throughout the years, the Paphos Archaeological Park has been excavated and the area has undergone several archaeological restorations. The park is now a celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the world in search of a glimpse into history. You must visit one of these historical places in Cyprus on your Cyprus tour

Interesting facts:

1. Paphos Archaeological Park in Cyprus contains some of the most well-preserved monuments and ruins in the Mediterranean and offers a unique insight into the island’s ancient history. 2. The park contains the remains of several important archaeological sites such as the oldest known city in Cyprus, the ruins of the 11th-century castle of Paphos, and the 3rd-century House of Dionysos, an ornate mosaic-decorated mansion. 3. Some of the earliest known artifacts and monuments in the park have been dated back to the Neolithic Period, making it a perfect spot for archaeologists and history buffs alike. 4. The Neolithic settlement at Paphos was built on a natural terrace of land and extended for many centuries. 5. The park also contains the remains of several Early Christian churches, as well as ancient Greek tombs. 6. Despite the damage caused by earthquakes in the past, some of the artifacts in the park are still in excellent condition and tourists can explore them on guided tours. 7. The park also houses the remains of some of the oldest known aqueducts in the world, making it a must-see for engineering enthusiasts too. Visit one of the famous monuments of Cyprus with your friends and family.