The Enchanting City by the Sea
Paphos, Cyprus is a city that has been chosen by the gods themselves. In fact, according to Greek mythology, it is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. Indeed, the rapture of Paphos has the power to stun even the most experienced of travelers.
This fascinating coastal city is located in the Southwest of the island of Cyprus. It borders the Mediterranean Sea on one side and is protected by the pine-tree covered Troodos Mountains on the other. It boasts of the most seductive beaches in the world, with their strikingly blue waters and white sands. While you can easily just spend your whole vacation sunbathing in the glowing, warm sand the entire day, cooling off in the sea and partying it up is only half the story.
Paphos strikes just the right balance of history and modernity. Many of its cultural treasures are part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. The city of Paphos is divided into two main districts, the upper, more commercialized section and the lower, or Kato Paphos. The Kato Paphos, by the harbor, houses the colorful history of the city.
The mysterious Tombs of the Kings are burial grounds for the rich aristocrats and officials of the 3rd Century. Carved out of solid rocks, its ghostly tombs have mystified archeologists and historians for years. Remains of fortresses, theaters, villas, and palaces can be found at the Paphos Archeological Park, providing great insight to Hellenistic and Roman times, when Paphos was the bustling capital of Cyprus. The mosaic floors of Nea Paphos, illustrating stories from Greek mythology, are said to be the most exquisitely carved in history. One spot that is not to be missed is the Petra tou Rominou, which means Rock of the Greek, and is also called Aphrodite’s Rock. Legend has it that the goddess was born in the foaming, rough waters. Although there is a general warning against swimming in the risky area, they say that any person who swims in the waters around the rock will be blessed with eternal beauty. You may not want to try that but it does add to the fantastical charm of the area!
Tucked inside the quiet residential area of Kato Paphos are the King Jason Luxury Apartments. Renowned throughout the island and the rest of the world for its impeccable taste and hospitality, the hotel will complete your experience of this timeless city. Its apartments are conveniently located just 7 kilometers from the Paphos International Airport, a 20 minute drive. The luxury hotel apartments are built Greek Island style with elegant furnishings and tasteful interior, surrounded by lush, green gardens. Windows of the rooms open to the view of a majestic seafront and the air has a mystical beauty about it. A step outside the hotel and you will be welcomed with quaint old stone houses and flowerpot-lined pathways. The hotel is also close to some of Paphos’ main attractions, such as the ancient Paphos Port harbor and the Paphos Castle.
A visit is a must for anyone who wants to witness the powers of nature and mankind together. The enchanting city of Paphos will silently whisk you into its magical world and you won’t help but succumb to its spells, the way countless civilizations have been for centuries.
Photos by danceinthesky , HolidayIslandCyprus.co.uk
