The Roman Mosaics of Kato Paphos are a designated World Heritage site. Covering a large area of ground from the medieval harbour of Kato Paphos to the lighthouse the remarkably intricate and intact mosaics primarily depict scenes of the Roman Gods.
The Roman Mosaics of Kato Paphos a UNESCO world Heritage Site
The Roman Mosaics of Kato Paphos were discovered accidentally when a farmer was ploughing his land in 1962. The whole area between the harbour and the lighthouse is now protected as it is thought that there is much to still be uncovered.
Covering a fairly large area the site visitor is encouraged to visit three main areas which have been named after the Gods who are portrayed on the mosaics to be seen there
1.The House of Dionysos
Named after Dionysos the god of wine and happiness, it is thought that this, the largest area of mosaics on the site, was the home of a wealthy merchant built in the second or third century AD.
The majority of the scenes on the mosaics depict hunting scenes or grapes, the harvest and wine.
2. The House of Aion
The covered House of Aion has a large six part rectangular mosaic. The right hand side of the mosaic is less damaged and the scenes of Apollo, Cassiopeia and Hermes are easily recognised
3. The House of Theseus
This unroofed area has a circular mosaic of Theseus slaying the Minotaur as its centre point
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Roman Mosaics at Paphos
The entrance to the Paphos Roman Mosaics is near the harbour of Kato Paphos. There is ample free parking in a large car park nearby. Modern clean toilets are available adjacent to the entrance and ticket office.
The site is open daily from 8am with some variance depending on the season. It is worth visiting early in the morning or later in the day to avoid both tour groups and the heat of the sun, especially in the summer.
There is some walking between the houses and little shade so the visitor should take water with them. There is nowhere to purchase water on site.
Further information about UNESCO World Heritage sites
The UNESCO World Heritage Website provides listing and information on all eight hundred and sixty nine World Heritage Sites
The Roman Mosaics in Paphos can be combined with a visit to the nearby Tombs of the Kings
Some information for this article has been taken from
Paphos, Land of Aphropdite Renos G Lavithis Interworld Publication 4th Edition 1990
The Rough Guide to Cyprus Marc Dubin Rough Guides 5th Edition 2005
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