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Local
Information
Brief
History
Pafos, situated on the south-west coast of Cyprus is
capital of the district, and historically one of the
most important centers on the island. Together with
Palai-Paphos (modern Kouklia) they illustrate some of
the most glorious moments of the island's history from
the times of the Trojan Wars. The Roman capital of
Cyprus, Pafos was famous throughout antiquity, for two
main reasons: its association with the cult of Aphrodite
and the spread of Christianity. In fact, such was the
role of Pafos and such is the importance of its ancient
remains, that, in 1981, the sites of Palai-Paphos and
Nea Pafos, were put on the World Cultural Heritage List
of UNESCO.
Paphos – Cyprus
The
moment you begin to explore Pafos (or Paphos or Pathos
as is sometimes writen by mistake) from the furthest
outskirts at Petra tou Romiou - where it is said that
Aphrodite was born from the foam of the sea - you
understand the reason for its existence on earth. Pafos
is a place specially created for holidays. Throughout
Pafos area, Pafos town, Yeroskipou, Peyia, Polis
Chrysohous and the entire countryside with all its colorful tradition,the visitor is enchanted by the
wonders of nature's special gifts. This part of the
island possesses all the elements of a perfect holiday
location, small sandy beaches that rank high on the list
of some of Europe's best, lush natural surroundings,
accommodation facilities for all budgets, entertainment
to suit all tastes and infinite sporting activities for
all ages.
Add to this a lovely subtropical climate, where the
changes of season are miraculously distinct. Springtime
signals colorful splashes of flowers, fruit and fauna.
In the summertime the wondrous Pafos beaches invite
sunning and swimming in the clear Mediterranean waters.
Autumn is the perfect time to experience the sheer,
natural beauty of the Akamas Peninsula where the
delicate balance of nature is kept intact. Winter is
subtly cooler and within half an hour of Pafos the
Troodos Mountains offer the opportunity for excellent
skiing. Here in Pafos the purest traditions of Cyprus
live on.
But it is also a land of striking contrasts.
Everywhere you turn,
the past mingles with the present. The Dionysos
“wine” mosaics,
the intriguing Tombs of the Kings, the 16th
century Fortress in the picturesque fishing
harbor, Byzantine painted churches, cathedrals
and museums are just some of the splendid
attractions that have been celebrated for
centuries.
Delightfully, Pafos is not just sea and sun, tradition
and antiquities, nature and beauty. Pafos embraces in
such a unique way both the tradition and
contemporary,
that makes you feel that this blend is just the way it
should be. It offers delicious restaurants, cozy pubs
and trendy outdoor cafes. Discos and luxury hotels along
the waterfront add just the right cosmopolitan flavor
not to mention an all – encompassing range of shops and
boutiques.
And for those who like more active holidays,
or just prefer to combine holidays with their favorite
activity, Pafos is again the right place. Whether it be
golf or bird wathing, water sports or bowling, car
rallies or yachting to name but a few, Pafos has it all.
Pafos has a charm and up to date quality all its own and
guests from around the world are assured by its
distinctive warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Shopping
Pafos offers an impressive selection of shopping options
that range from the typical handicrafts of the island
including lacework, weaving, art metal work, jewelry and
pottery as well as high fashion items in cloths and
leather.
Contact lenses and optical ware are known to be
extremely good "bargains" in Cyprus with a wide choice
of ordinary and designer frames.
Jewelry is handcrafted in 18 carat gold and 925 silver.
Crochet, needlepoint and embroidery are offered in
striking colors and patterns.
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The ancient craft of pottery is still popular in
Cyprus today and dishes, jars, vases, candle
holders and decorative ornaments are beautiful
purchases as well as antique wooden chests and
furniture.
Still one of the oldest crafts of this region
must be copper work. Modern earrings, bracelets
and age old plates and bowl are examples of fine
copper work in Cyprus.
Baskets and sponges are excellent bargains in
Pafos costing approximately one third of the
price you will pay at home. Pafos woven material
with cross stitched patterns are also lovely
purchases as well as ceramic pottery that is
styled in beautiful village patterns.
Most shops are still small, friendly and family
run where a cup of coffee is frequently offered
to go along with a smile which is still so
typical of Cypriot hospitality. |
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