📖 About Paphos

Paphos is a coastal city in southwest Cyprus and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, legendary as the birthplace of Aphrodite, goddess of love. With approximately 36,000 residents, this ancient city contains some of the Mediterranean's most important archaeological treasures, including Roman mosaics of extraordinary quality and the Tombs of the Kings.

The city divides into Kato Paphos (lower, by the harbor and archaeological sites) and Pano Paphos (upper, the modern town). The picturesque harbor is overlooked by a medieval castle. Nearby, Petra tou Romiou is the legendary rock where Aphrodite emerged from the sea. Tourism drives the economy; the international airport connects to Europe. Paphos was European Capital of Culture 2017, celebrating millennia of Mediterranean heritage.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Paphos' economy is dominated by tourism—hotels, restaurants, and services cater to European visitors seeking sun, history, and culture. The international airport brings direct flights from across Europe. Real estate attracts British and other European retirees and investors. Agriculture in the region produces wine, citrus, and bananas. Government services and construction round out the economy.

Greek Cypriot culture defines Paphos—Greek is spoken, Orthodox Christianity is practiced, and Mediterranean lifestyle prevails. The British colonial legacy is visible in driving on the left and the English-speaking tourism sector. Traditional festivals include Easter celebrations and the Paphos Aphrodite Festival of opera. Food features meze, grilled halloumi, and seafood. The culture balances ancient heritage with modern tourism.

📜 History

Paphos has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. The cult of Aphrodite made it a major pilgrimage center from the Bronze Age through Roman times. New Paphos (Kato Paphos) became the capital of Cyprus under the Ptolemies and Romans; the mosaics date from the 2nd-5th centuries AD.

Earthquakes destroyed much of Roman Paphos. Medieval rulers—Byzantines, Crusaders, Venetians, Ottomans—left their marks, including the harbor castle. British rule (1878-1960) brought modern development. Since independence, tourism has transformed Paphos from a quiet town to Cyprus' main resort destination. UNESCO recognized its treasures in 1980; the 2017 European Capital of Culture designation highlighted its cultural importance.