| PAPHOS AREA
1. YEROSKIPOU FOLK ART MUSEUM
Yroskipou village, 3 km east of Paphos. Tel:(06)-240216
The name of the village comes from the Greek word "Hieroskepos", the sacred Garden of Aphrodite. Fascinating collection of Cyprus folk arts and crafts gathered together in the house known as Hadjismith.
2. AYIA PARASKEVI CHURCH
Yeroskipou village, 3 km east of Paphos.
One of the most interesting and attractive Byzantine Churches on the island, dating to the 10th century, with a vaulted basilica, a nave and two aisles surmounted by five domes, with later frescoes dating to the 15th century.
3. TEMPLE OF APHRODITE Kouklia village, 14 km east of Paphos.
This is Palaepaphos, Old Paphos, one of the most celebrated places of pilgrimage of the ancient Greek world, and once an ancient city kingdom of Cyprus. Here are the ruins of the famous Temple of Aphrodite, the most ancient remains, go back to the 12th century B.C. The temple was one of the most important places of cult and pilgrimage of the ancient world, till the 3rd-4th century A.D. The Museum, housed in the Lusignan Manor, is small but impressive with many finds from the area.
4. PETRA TOU ROMIOU (Birthplace of Aphrodite)
25 km east of Paphos.
According to legend, Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, rose from the waves in this strikingly beautiful spot. The Greek name, Petra tou Romiou (The Rock of the Greek), is associated with the legendary frontier-guard of Byzantine times, Dighenis Akritas, who kept the marauding Saracens at bay with amazing strength. It is said in one such fight he heaved a large rock (Petra), at his enemy.
5. PANAYIA CHRYSELEOUSA
3 km north of Paphos, Emba village.
6. PEYIA
Ayios Georghios Basilica and the picturesque fountains.
Peyia village, 19 km north-west of Paphos. In Peyia, do not forget to quench your thirst at the picturesque fountains which can be found in the beautiful stone-paved village square. 41/2 km from the village, near the fishing refuge, are the ruins of two early Christian basilicas with some very interesting mosaic floors depicting animals. This site must have been an important establishment in Early Christian times. There are also rock-hewn tombs of the Roman period above the sea.
7. AYIOS NEOPHYTOS MONASTERY
9 km north of Paphos.
Founded around 1200 by the Cypriot hermit and writer Neophytos. The Encleistra or Enclosure carved out of the mountain by the hermit contains some of the finest Byzantine frescoes dating from the 12th to 15th century. In the Monastery's church there is an interesting collection of icons and remains of 16th century frescoes
8. CHRYSOROYIATISSA MONASTERY
40 km north-east of Paphos, turn right before Stroumbi village. The monastery is also reached from Kykko (forest road).
Set in beautiful surroundings, this monastery, dedicated to Our Lady of the Golden Pomegranate, was originally founded in the 12th century but the present building dates to 1770. The monastery has a collection of important icons and treasures. An impressive religious ceremony and celebrations are held on 15th August. Recently the old winery of the monastery was reopened and produces some of the best vintage wine available in Cyprus.
9. PANO PANAYIA
On the west of Troodos 1 1/2 km from Chrysoroyiatissa Monastery.
The birthplace of President Makarios. The house, where he was born, has been turned in a museum.
10. POLIS (known in ancient times as Marion)
37 km north of Paphos
One of the ancient city kingdoms of Cyprus, it became an important commercial centre in Classical and Hellenistic times, with close relations with Athens. Some beautiful houses, dating to the beginning of this century, can still be seen here. Polis, with its excellent climate and beautiful beaches and scenery, is now developing into a popular resort.
11. BATHS OF APHRODITE (Akamas Peninsula, near Polis)
48 km north of Paphos
An area of breath taking beauty associated with Aphrodite. According to legend, the goddess Aphrodite used to bathe in the pool of the nearby natural grotto, which is shaded by a fig tree. A trail from the Baths takes you to Fontana Amorosa (8 km from the Baths, at the end of the Akamas Peninsula). Walking along this trail, one can enjoy an incomparable view and unspoilt nature (especially in Sing).
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