Archaeological Park Paphos (UNESCO)★★★
★★★ The Mosaics of Paphos
The Archaeological Park of Kato Paphos is Cyprus's most significant cultural monument and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. Situated on a vast area right by the sea are the remains of the ancient Roman city of Nea Paphos, which was the capital of the province of Cyprus from the 2nd century BC to the 4th century AD.
The absolute highlight is the floor mosaics — among the most beautiful and best-preserved in the entire ancient world:
House of Dionysos
The most impressive building with 14 mosaic rooms. The scenes depict the wine god Dionysos, hunting, the four seasons, the triumph of Dionysos over Ikarios (who made the farmers drunk — they thought they were poisoned and killed him). The colors are still vibrant after 2,000 years — orange, red, blue, black.
House of Aion
Five large mosaic panels from the 4th century AD with mythological scenes: Leda and the Swan, the beauty contest between Cassiopeia and the Nereids, the birth of Dionysos.
House of Theseus
Once the palace of the Roman governor. The mosaic shows Theseus fighting the Minotaur in the labyrinth — a masterpiece of composition.
House of Orpheus
Three mosaics, including Orpheus charming the wild animals with his lyre. Less visited than the others — perfect for a quiet moment.
Besides the mosaics: a Roman Odeon (concert theater, 2nd century), the Agora (marketplace), early Christian basilicas, and the Saranda Kolones (a Byzantine fortress destroyed by an earthquake in 1222).
Kato Paphos, directly north of the harbor. €4.50. Daily 8:30–19:30 (Apr–Sep), 8:30–17:00 (Oct–Mar). At least 2–3 hours. Little shade — sun hat, water, sunscreen! Best in the morning (less hot, less crowded).
