Paphos

Paphos, an archaeological property in western Cyprus’s District of Paphos, dates back to the Neolithic period (the New Stone Age). Legends cite it as the birthplace of Aphrodite, a Greek goddess seen as the ideal of beauty and love, and widely known through the influence of Homeric poetry. For centuries, Paphos served as the center of worship for the goddess. The property today consists of three components at two sites: the town of Kato Paphos, which includes the remains of Aphrodite’s Sacred City and the necropolis known as Tafoi ton Vasileon (Tombs of the Kings); and the village of Kouklia, which includes the remains of the Temple of Aphrodite and Palaepaphos (Old Paphos).

—Prepared by the World Tribune staff

May 3, 2024, World Tribune, p. 12