Cyprus-Forum.com

[Sotos]

I think this article could be interesting for tourists.

1. Tomb of The Kings

Spread over a vast area, these impressive subterranean burial chambers were built in Paphos from 3rd Century BC to the 3rd Century AD. They are carved out of solid rock with some being decorated with Doric pillars. Put on your walking shoes and climbing pants and don't be afraid to get yourself a little dirty at this site. Fun to explore and full of some very atmospheric places.

2. Paphos Mosaics

Cyprus history proclaims Aion as the Greek God of eternity. The house of Aion has an amazing five-paneled mosaic which shows the Greek God in the unenviable position of having to judge what appears to be a beauty contest.

'Unenviable?!', I hear our modern day Gods proclaim.

The difference in this beauty contest is that his choice lies between the ordinary and smug looking Queen Cassiopeia and a number of much prettier, but unhappy looking Nereides water nymphs.

I'm sure that all of you will be able to guess who the eventual winner is!!

3. Aphrodites Rock

The most awe inspiring piece of coastline to be seen in Cyprus, when the sun is out, and I defy any couple, regardless of how young or old, to not be bewitched by it's spell. Of all ancient Greek myths, the story of Aphrodite's creation will bring water to your eyes, but the story lives on as one of the well known legends surrounding this stunning rock formation.

Cronos was begged by his mother Gaia to be released from the embraces of her husband Uranus. In order to assist his mother in her plight, Cronos castrated his father with a sickle and threw his genitals into the sea. The foam gathered around them and the Goddess rose from the sea as a fully grown woman.

4. St George Fishing Harbour

I recommend that you visit this memorable place in Paphos with someone very special to you and a camera. Arrive late afternoon and watch the fishing boats come in with their daily catch. Have a drink or two at the beach side bar but don't stay too long before securing yourself a spot on the harbour wall. Take along the camera or video and make sure you have plenty of film as this is one of those special places to catch the most romantic of sunsets in Cyprus. Enjoy!

5. Sterna Winery

Located on the outskirts of the village of Kathiskas, 15 mins drive from Paphos. Be entertained by the charismatic Cypriot owner who will treat you to free wine tasting and a tour of this very small winery. Do not miss out on their own peach schnapps - powerful enough to blow your head off and must be thrown back in one go. If you make a purchase of their very fine wines you will probably find that a complimentary bottle of schnapps is thrown in. Not recommended to light the Xmas pud with!
http://www.market-day.net/article_29389 ... lidays.php

[anastasiaC]

the whole area of Paphos is really amazing! very magical - I dont think the locals realise that
legend has that it was the love playground for Aphrodite and Adonis..........

[sueandsandy]

Thanks for the places to visit item. My sister and I are coming out to Paphos on January 8th. I will visit the winery if it is open then. I have visited the other places and they are great.

Any other suggestions will be welcome.

We are meeting some friends who moved out to Paphos approx a year ago.

[steveash]

interesting post, shame the link dont go to the right place tho

[Cypriotatheart]

Certainly the Paphians know the legends of Aphrodite. Probably foreigners who have settled in Paphos may not all be aware of it, but it is well advertised and most people should certainly know it.

[orokliniservices]

We visited Tomb of the Kings a few weeks ago, were the only ones there! Quite creepy when you're there all alone. Watch out for the 20ft drop off's to the Tombs.. there are no safety rails or warnings anywhere.

[anastasiaC]

its an amazing place!!!
i have some pics in my flickr page....yes wouldnt want to be there on my own though!

[Svetlana]

The catacombs are an interesting place to stop off, they are on the right when you drive from the harbour towards the town, about 100m BEFORE the first set of lights. You will see a tree with many hundreds of rags (wishes) hanging from it. Go down the steps and there are two shrines with dozens of icons and light candles.

On Sundays there are many Sri Lancans there; Bhuddists and Christians mixing together. I was there yesterday lighting a candle; it has a very special feeling - more than any church or temple I have been in.

Lana

[sueandsandy]

Thanks Lana

I know where you mean.

We have driven past it many times and not realised that there was anything of interest there.

I am really looking forward to being in Cyprus next week cannot wait. It is raining and cold here.

Thanks all

[Baggieboy]

We stayed in Kathikas a year or so ago and can recommend the Sterna Winery. Had some free samples to start with (served with olives) and a little tour of the winery after. Then bought a few bottles for around £3 each. And very good they were too!

As a little postscript, we were walking along what you could call the main Kathikas lane a few days later. We planned on walking for about an hour, having lunch and then walking back. We'd somewhat underestimated the gradient of the hill on our return and our house was still a long way away. It was very hot and my wife was starting to struggle a bit. Next thing a truck pulls up and the driver shouts out "Do you want a lift?" (We have learned that Cypriots have little understanding of this walking business - only poor people walk!).

We eagerly took him up on his offer and on the journey back he proudly pointed out his winery. Yes - he was the owner of the Sterna Winery!

Just another example of the kindness we frequently experience in Cyprus.

regards,

Richie