Most Visited Monuments in Cyprus | Famous Monuments of Cyprus

If you want to explore the history of Cyprus through the ages there are a number of historical monuments in Cyprus including the time-honored buildings, palaces, and parks where you can learn about the glorious past of Cyprus. The presence of these monuments of Cyprus will take you on a walk through the country’s rich history. If you are willing to have in-depth historical information about Cyprus, we recommend that you take a wonderful guided tour to cover the major historical attractions. Also, check the opening and closing time for each so that you can organize your time. Make sure that you go through the complete list of historical sites and landmarks in Cyprus for a great trip:

List of Monuments in Cyprus 

1. Monastery of Agia Napa

The charming Medieval Monastery of Agia Napa was built in the form of a Medieval Castle around 1500 AD and stands in the middle of the village. Surrounded by a high wall, the monastery is partially built underground and cut into the rock. It is dedicated to ‘Our Lady of the Forests’, with the name coming from the Ancient Greek word for wooded valley (‘Napa’) as a result of the area’s past topography. The popular monument in Cyprus was restored in 1950 and in 1978 became an Ecumenical Conference Centre, serving churches in Cyprus and the Middle East. The monastery came under the administration of the Metropolis after the re-establishment of the Holy Metropolis Constantia Ammochostos (Famagusta) in 2007. A new church – also dedicated to the Virgin Mary – was built in 1994, southwest of the monastery. The ancient sycamore tree in front of the south gate is believed to be over 600 years old.

Address: Ayia Napa, Cyprus.

Read More: Why the Maldives famous For

2. The Cyprus Museum

This is the largest archaeological museum in Cyprus. It includes artifacts from the Neolithic Age to the Byzantine period (7th century AD). Of all the exhibits, the terracotta human figures from the Bronze Age are the most impressive. There are over 2,000 of these human and animal forms on display, each in amazingly good condition. The heritage landmark in Cyprus also houses an ancient coin collection, various cross-shaped idols from the Chalcolithic period, gold jewelry and statues of gods and goddesses. The collections consist of sculpture, coins, copper objects, pottery, jewellery, and other artefacts, all exhibited in chronological order in the various museum galleries. The museum building itself is also historic, and work on it commenced in 1908 and was completed in 1924, when Cyprus was still a British colony. Several extensions were later added for the museum to become the building it is today.

Address: Museum 1, Nicosia, Cyprus.

3. Kourion Archaeological Site

The ancient city-kingdom of Kourion was located about 20 km west of Lemesos. This important historical monument in Cyprus features a theatre, four Greco-Roman villas, public baths, a Roman agora (market), an early Christian basilica and an early Christian house. The theatre was modified by the Romans to be used by 2,000 spectators watching gladiatorial games. It has been completely restored and is still used for performances. Many of the mosaics in the villas are in superb condition. They depict gods, goddesses, hunting scenes, and blessings of the home. The mosaics are spectacular and the amphitheatre is in very good condition. There are a whole variety of buildings in varying states of preservation. Along with the cost from this elevated site, there are also spectacular views. The area has been subjected to 5 major earthquakes (none of significance in recent times) and areas have been rebuilt over time as a result. The people in charge of the site are to be commended for providing braille descriptions to the main features.

Address: Near Episkopi, Limassol City, Cyprus.

Read More: Why Denver is famous

4. Kolossi Castle

Kolossi Castle was built in 1210 by the Knights of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem (Hospitallers) and was their administrative seat until 1310. From 1373  to 1426 it suffered substantial damage from raids but was rebuilt in 1454 by the Hospitallers. Located at the village of Kolossi, 11 kilometres from Limassol, Kolossi Castle is one of the most important medieval fortifications and ancient monuments in Cyprus. This monument is interesting but not jaw-dropping. Quite small for a castle and though the structure is there, one has to imagine how rooms were used and furnished. Easy parking though there are many stairs and surrounded by a nice little garden with shade and famous trees.

Address: Agiou Antoniou 1 Road to Paphos, Limassol City Cyprus.

5. Paphos Mosaics (The House of Dionysos)

The Paphos Mosaics are located beside the harbour and famous as the finest mosaic in the Eastern Mediterranean. Around 40 mosaics have been discovered which date back to the second century A.D. These mosaics are situated in different villas namely, the House of Theseus, the House of Aion, the House of Orpheus, and the House of Four Seasons. The largest of all villas is the House of Dionysos containing wonderful mosaics of the ancient Greek god of wine. The mosaics are made from small cubes of marble and stone called tesserae. To develop the range of colours glass paste was used additionally. There is a small entry fee to enter this famous landmark in Cyprus, and the visitor’s centre at the entrance has toilets and sells souvenir books and postcards. You need a guidebook of some sort to help you around the large area, although helpful signposts exist to direct you to the various parts. Tourist guidebooks, if you already have one, usually detail the site well enough. There are also benches strategically located under trees, but you still need water and a sun hat or umbrella in the hot months.

Address: Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, Paphos, Cyprus.

Read More: Why Kochi is Famous

6. Saint Paul’s Pillar

Legend has it that St. Paul was tied to a pillar and given 39 lashes 5 times over. He had visited Paphos in 45 AD, with the aim to convert the people of Paphos into Christians. He had some success in doing so, but not before receiving severe punishment for his work. Today, the Pillar of Saint Paul is a sacred spot where every year thousands of people come for a pilgrimage. The grounds of the church are an ongoing archeological site, with remains of the original site uncovered. Inside of this old monument in Cyprus, there is a remarkable church. This is a Catholic church, but decorated in the Greek Authodox tradition, and quite beautiful. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, and you probably need to know it’s there, but it is really worth a visit to see a remarkable piece of biblical history.

Address: Pafias Afroditis, Paphos Cyprus

7. Chrysoroyiatissa Monastery

Situated at about 40 km northeast of Paphos the Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery is devoted to ‘Our Lady of the Golden Pomegranate’. The monastery was built in the 12th century, by a monk called Ignatius. According to the legends, the monk had found an image of the Virgin Mary off the shore of Paphos, which was thrown into the sea in the iconoclastic period. Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery is of great historical importance and holds Holy Books, sacred objects and artefacts which can be viewed at its museum. Such as Gialia and the Agia Moni from Paphos, few more noted monasteries are worth visiting for their architecture. This historical monument in Cyprus is open all day for the visitors. It is also known as one of the best wineries in the region. Two of their wines were awarded. It is well worth visiting the museum. The museum features two stores, upstairs they keep the old treasures of the monastery as well as icons from the 17th century restored by the older father Dionysios.

Address: E703, Pano Panagia, Cyprus.

Read Ab0ut: Monuments in Berlin

8. Church of Panagia Theoskepasti

The Panagia Theoskepasti church is located in the heart of Kato Paphos, and dates back to the Byzantine Empire. The church was constructed in the 10th century when Cyprus was under control of the Byzantine Roman Empire. The present day church which was devoted to Panagia (Virgin Mary) was constructed on the remains of the old church in 1923. The church is home to many historical icons including the miraculous silver-covered icon, which is believed to be painted by the Evangelist Luke. The architecture is simple and elegant almost in equal measure. This popular landmark in Cyprus seems to be frequented more by locals than tourists. It is definitely worthy of the relatively short walk to take in the beautiful edifice and if you have time the equally impressive interior.

Address: Panagias Theoskepastis, Paphos, Cyprus.

9. House of Dionysus

The House of Dionysus, or Paphos Mosaics as it’s sometimes referred to, is situated in the Kato Archaeological Park and when you pay your entry fee, it includes all sites within the park. If you have an interest in history, then a visit to this iconic landmark in Cyprus is a must and a trip to Cyprus really would not be complete without a visit to see these beautiful mosaics, which are mostly still intact. It really is quite remarkable that they have survived so long. If you are visiting during warm months, do take cold drinks with you and wear a sun hat as you will be outside for a few hours!

Address: Kato Paphos, near Paphos Harbour, Cyprus.

Get About: Famous Monuments in Bangkok

10. Tombs of the Kings

This World Heritage site and beautiful monument in Cyprus, located just 2 km (1.24 miles) north of Paphos harbour, is an underground monument carved out of solid rocks dating back to the 4th century BC. From the name, you would think it was a burial ground for the kings and royal families. On the contrary, high officials were buried here. The name was inspired by the size, and splendour of the tombs. The tombs are meticulously curved into shapes. Today, locals and visitors from far and wide come to admire the grand work of the ancient stone carvers. This is one of Cyprus’s top tourist attractions and even on a February day it was still quite busy. It is on the outskirts of Pathos, well signposted and a large car park directly at the entrance. The fee is only four and a half euros which turned out to be an incredible value for what you see. There is a small information board at the entrance which tells you a little about the site, there is also a very basic guide leaflet that you can buy at the entrance. 

Address: Tombs of the Kings, Paphos, Cyprus.

11. Omodos Village

Omodos Village is located about 42 kilometres (26 miles) north-west of the city of Limassol, in the geographical region of the wine-making villages. This most popular landmark in Cyprus is built near the west bank of the Cha-potami River. The picturesque village is surrounded by tall mountaintops, the tallest of which are “Afames” and “Kremmos of Laona” (Leona’s Cliff). It is really a beautiful and traditional village. There is no better way to absorb the surroundings of this village then to take a walk on the stone-paved alleys and enter the monastery of the Holy Cross. In the centre of the village, you can find coffee shops and restaurants as well as many souvenir shops with traditional products, the perfect way to spend a long afternoon.

Get: adventure sports to enjoy in Cyprus

Address: Omodos, Limassol 4760, Cyprus.

 So far we have discussed the best monuments in Cyprus, which contains the proper information regarding all the most visited monuments in Cyprus. I hope you might have loved reading this article and if you love to know more about Cyprus then kindly head to our other articles as well which will help you to get knowledge about Cyprus.

The post Most Visited Monuments in Cyprus | Famous Monuments of Cyprus appeared first on World Tour & Travel Guide, Get Travel Tips, Information, Discover Travel Destination | Adequate Travel.