Archaeological sites in Paphos Municipality

Ancient Ruins and Tombs

Paphos is home to an extensive collection of UNESCO World Heritage archaeological sites dating from the Hellenistic to the Roman periods. This list includes the Nea Paphos archaeological park, featuring Roman villas with intricate floor mosaics like the House of Dionysos and the House of Theseus. It also covers the Tombs of the Kings, a rock-cut necropolis, and religious landmarks such as the 5th-century Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa and the Agia Solomoni Catacombs.

Tombs of the Kings

The Tombs of the Kings is a large necropolis lying about two kilometres north of Paphos harbour in Cyprus.

Odeon

The Roman amphitheatre was built in 2nd century and nowadays it serves as a venue for all kinds of performances.

St Paul's Pillar

Said to be the pillar where St. Paul was tied and given 39 lashes before he coverted his tormentor to Christianity.

Saranta Kolones Castle

A 7th-century Byzantine fortress built to protect the harbor from Arab raids. Destroyed by an earthquake in 1222, the ruins are named after the numerous granite columns found scattered across the site.

The House of Theseus

This 2nd-century Roman villa served as the residence of the Roman governor. It is the largest villa in Paphos, featuring a famous mosaic depicting Theseus killing the Minotaur within the Labyrinth.

Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa

Ruins of a 5th-century Early Christian basilica dedicated to Our Lady of the Harbour. The site contains remains of marble columns and floor mosaics that survived Arab raids and a 13th-century earthquake.

The House of Orpheus

A Roman villa containing a significant floor mosaic depicting Orpheus taming wild animals with his lyre. The site also features mosaics of Hercules and the Nemean Lion.

Toumpallos

An underground complex carved into the rock, believed to have functioned as a sanctuary or a garrison's camp during the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

The House of Dionysos

A 2nd-century Roman villa renowned for its well-preserved floor mosaics covering over 500 square meters. The artwork primarily depicts mythological scenes featuring Dionysos, the god of wine.

The House of Aion

Named after the god of eternal time, this villa contains 4th-century mosaics illustrating mythological scenes, including a beauty contest between Cassiopeia and the Nereids.

Asclepieion

An ancient healing center and temple dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. The complex includes several rooms used for patient treatment, located near the Roman Odeon.

Roman Amphitheater

Located on the slope of Fabrika Hill, this Hellenistic-Roman theater dates to the 4th century BC. It was once the city's largest performance venue, seating approximately 8,000 spectators.

Agia Solomoni Catacombs

A subterranean complex of rock-cut chambers used as a Christian chapel and burial site. A large terebinth tree at the entrance is traditionally decorated with votive rags left by pilgrims.