The Archaeological Park in Koto Paphos is one of the most famous historical sites in Cyprus. It is located near Paphos harbor, on the southwest of the island. The monuments, sites and artefacts there date from prehistoric times through to the middle ages, with the majority of the remains being from Roman times.
If you’re in Paphos city, the archaeological park is easy to get to. Just head for the harbor in the lower part of the city, Koto Paphos, and you’ll find the park just beyond it [need your help here Paris].
What to do in the Archaeological Park
There are lots of fascinating things to see here, and it’s not a bad idea to set aside a whole day to look around.
· Roman villas – there are four Roman villas that are very well preserved. Inside you will see mosaics that are considered some of the rarest and most beautiful specimens in the world.
· The Odeon – a limestone amphitheatre dating back to the 2nd century that still hosts performances
· Roman Agora – the remains of a roman marketplace
· Tombs of the Kings – an ancient burial place carved into underground rock, dating back to the 3rd Century
· Asklipieion – the remains of a religious sanctuary which was formerly a school of medicine and healing. The famous Greek physician Hippocrates taught here.
· Saranta Kolones – the remains of a Byzantine castle built to protect the harbour from the Arabs. Most of the castle was destroyed by an earthquake, but you can still see the impressive arches and columns spread across the site.
