History • Activities • Eating out • Nightlife • General information

Paphos, Cyprus

HISTORY
Paphos has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. It was a centre of the cult of Aphrodite and of pre-Hellenic fertility deities. Aphrodite's legendary birthplace was on this island, where her temple was erected by the Myceneans in the 12th century B.C. The remains of villas, palaces, theatres, fortresses and tombs mean that the site is of exceptional architectural and historic value.The amazing mosaic floors are considered among the finest in the Eastern Mediterranean. They mostly depict scenes from Greek mythology and are beautifully completed. The town of Paphos is included in the official UNESCO list of cultural and natural treasures of the world's heritage. From the modern town centre to the picturesque harbour and, stretching across the coastline, lie innumerable ancient sites which not surprisingly have now been included in UNESCO's list of World Cultural Heritage sites. After all, this is the birthplace and centre of worship of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty and the whole area retains some of this magic. The Odeon theatre is also in this region, a stone structure still used as it was in ancient times for outdoor concerts, games, and plays.

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ACTIVITIES (see Links)
There are activities available to suit all tastes and ages; fishing, golf, watersports, horse riding, parapenting, diving, nature walks, jeep safaris, cruises, sailing, skiing at Troudos mountains and more. The offers are many and varied and it can be a good idea to shop around for the best deals.

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EATING OUT
Paphos has an international restaurant scene, with anything from small 'hole in the wall' local places to up-market luxurious dining. Chinese, Indian, Italian, French, Thai and Greek - they are all represented. There are several lively and entertaining streets in Cato Paphos (by the harbour) - and there should without doubt be good eating to be found for all tastes. The most touristy areas tend to be the priciest - and it can be well worth looking up the back streets for some local delicacies.

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NIGHTLIFE
Paphos offers a busy and fun night's experience to rival any summer resort. There are various bar and night club streets, with bars from all corners of the world - and clubs offering many different themes and music. The famous Tomb of the Kings road, on the way to Chlorakas, is also a favoured place to visit, with its long line of restaurants, bars and clubs.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

• Paphos consists of two main areas:
1. Cato Paphos, which is the harbour area. This is more touristy, but also very nice and a great place to enjoy a refreshing drink by the sea or a day at the beach.
2. Old town Paphos. This is the original town, which is crested up along the hills behind the harbour. There is great shoppping to be found here, as well as cosy local restaurants with views over the whole area.

• Average temperatures in the area (in Celsius degrees):
Jan 17, Feb 17, March 19, April 23, May 26, June 30, July 32, August 33, September 31, October 26, November 22, December 19.

• The local money is Cypriot Pounds (CYP)

More information on Paphos and Cyprus visit: www.cyprus.com • www.paphosinfo.com

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