Legend has it that Paphos was home of Aphrodite, goddess of beauty and love. Still under the spell of the goddess, the area retains her magic and has remained intact by time. It seduces its visitor with its majestic landscape, lovely coastline and historical treasures.
Our first visit will be to the Tombs of the Kings, an early Hellenistic monument dating from the 4th century BC. They are burial caves carved into the bedrock of the hill and decorated with Doric columns and capitals.
We continue to The Church of Panayia Chrysopolitissa, built in the 13th century over the ruins of the largest Early Byzantine basilica on the island. Within the compound one can see St. Paul's Pillar, where according to tradition; the saint was flogged before the Roman Governor Sergius Paulus converted to Christianity. The floor of the basilica was covered with colourful mosaics, some of which are still preserved today.
We will then visit the Mosaics of the Roman period, dating from around the 3rd century AD. These are situated in four main houses: the House of Aion, House of Dionysos, House of Orpheus and House of Theseus. They include many attention-grabbing geometrical decorations and draw inspiration from Greek mythological scenes.
Our guests can enjoy their lunch the Limanaki of Paphos with stunning views of the fishing harbour and the medieval castle of Paphos.
Optional and Time Permitting:
We can visit Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou) the birthplace of Aphrodite, where according to legend, the Goddess was born from the foam of the sea.
And/or
We can visit, the ancient Kingdom of Kourion, which is placed on one of the most spectacular sites in the island, with extensive archaeological ruins including well-preserved mosaics. Its Greco-Roman theatre, built in the second century BC, is famous for its vistas of the Mediterranean Sea. Fully restored, the theatre is today used for musical and theatrical performances. Kourion is also renowned for its preserved mosaic floors in the House of Eustolios, the House of Achilles and the House of the Gladiators.
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*The above rates are subject to our terms and conditions. Please contact our staff at info@drakostravel.com for more information and bookings.
