Overview:

Saint Paul's Pillar is a Roman monument in the town of Paphos on the island of Cyprus. It is believed to be the place where the Apostle Paul was tied and whipped when he visited the city in 45 AD. The pillar has been partially destroyed over the centuries and is now broken into three parts. The top section of the pillar is missing. The base is a tall stone column, nearly 15 feet in height, which is decorated with a relief featuring a seated eagle. The eagle's wingspan is nearly 9 feet across and its head is turned towards an amphora which is believed to symbolize the blessing of God. The site is a popular tourist attraction and is also a revered historical site for Christians. Every year, on June 29th, religious pilgrims from around the world gather at Saint Paul's Pillar for a celebration of the holy Apostle. The event features outdoor masses, religious processions and traditional music and dance. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Cyprus
Prominent Features:

1. Saint Paul's Pillar is a symbol of the island of Cyprus and one of the most significant Christian monuments on the island. 2. It is currently located in the ancient city of Paphos and is a popular tourist destination. 3. Located near the beautiful harbour of Paphos, Saint Paul's Pillar is believed to be the place where Saint Paul was bound and whipped during his mission to spread Christianity on the island. 4. This spiritual monument was built in the 4th century AD by the Byzantine Empire to commemorate Saint Paul's mission and sacrifices. 5. The main architectural features of Saint Paul's Pillar are its long body and its seven marble pillars which symbolize the seven years of Jesus's public ministry. 6. The pillars are topped with crosses which symbolize the crucifixion of Jesus. 7. At the base of the pillar are engravings depicting the four Evangelists along with a sitting angel. 8. The pillar was also adorned with other decorations, including a metal statue of Saint Paul and a marble depiction of Jesus's baptism. This national monument of Cyprus portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

According to tradition, Saint Paul's Pillar is an ancient pagan site near Paphos, Cyprus which was the site of St. Paul's miraculous escape from prison. It is believed that the Apostle Paul, whilst preaching in Paphos and converting locals to Christianity, was arrested and imprisoned by the Roman authorities. However, during the night an angel appeared before him and led him away from the prison and onto the pillar where a miraculous transformation took place and he was freed and able to continue his preaching. The exact date of the event is unknown, but it is believed to have occurred around the 4th century A.D. This pillar is said to be the very same one which the apostle used to make his escape. In the 1800s the area was developed to become a tourist attraction which today has an amphiteatre, a chapel, and many monuments. Each year, during the feast day of the apostle's escape, pilgrims flock to the site to remember and pay homage to Paul's miraculous escape. The more modern history of the Pillar of Saint Paul can be traced back to the Allies invasion of Cyprus in 1974. During this invasion, the Turkish military destroyed the site, leaving behind ruins. In 1996, the site was restored by the Cyprus Department of Antiquities with the support of UNESCO, and many of the ruins were repaired. The Pillar of Saint Paul today stands as a symbol of hope and a reminder of the power of faith. You must visit one of these historical places in Cyprus on your Cyprus tour

Interesting facts:

1. Saint Paul's Pillar is a Roman pillar found in the ancient city of Paphos in Cyprus. 2. Legend has it that Saint Paul was flogged here by Roman soldiers during his visit to Paphos. 3. The pillar stands at almost 7 meters high and has a grave cut in its sides. 4. It is believed that the pillar was constructed in the 1st century AD and was used by early Christians as a pilgrimage site. 5. The pillar has a long history and has been an important archaeological site since the 19th century. 6. In 1980, the pillar was included on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. 7. It is now a popular tourist attraction and is one of the most visited ancient ruins in Paphos. Visit one of the famous monuments of Cyprus with your friends and family.