Rhapsody :: Excursions :: Cyprus

Paphos, Unesco's world heritage

Situated on the south-western part of the island the city of Paphos managed to maintain its countryside ambience and qualities winning Unesco’s attention to include it on the list of cultural and natural treasures, making the city a World Heritage.

The newly completed highway joins Limassol to Paphos within an hour on a relaxed and comfortable journey through scenic countryside spread with orchards, villages, mountains, small farms and golf courses.
On the way to Paphos a stop for photographs will be made at Aphrodite’s Rock where legend says the goddess Aphrodite, goddess of love, was born from the foaming waves.

At the village of Yeroskipou near the outskirts of the city visit the small church of Ayia Paraskevi and admire the beautiful murals dating from the 8th to the 15th centuries. With its five domes forming a cross the church is one of only two Byzantine churches found on the island. The village is also famous for its mouth-watering soft candy, the Cyprus Delights.

Extending from the seashore to the slopes of the nearby mountains dotted with small villages, their whitewashed houses a striking contrast amongst the greenery of the slopes, Paphos welcomes the visitor in a laid back and relaxed pace. Rich in antiquities the city is complete with a medieval castle and a picturesque harbour where fishing boats are moored.
Visit the House of Dionysos dating from the 2nd century BC and admire the beautiful mosaics depicting scenes from Greek Mythology. They are considered the finest in the Mediterranean. Continue to the Tombs of the kings for a visit. Dating from the 4th century BC the monumental, mysterious and magnificent tombs are carved out of solid rock.

A short and final stop at the restored seafront in front of the medieval castle for photographs and souvenir shopping will take place before returning to Limassol.

Special Notes:
Wooden ramps and some stairs at the House of Dionysos. Stairs at the tombs of the kings. Tour suitable for persons with limited walking capabilities. Not recommended for wheelchair confined. Tour can be extended to include lunch at a local restaurant ashore