Nea Paphos is the archaeological park of Kato Paphos, on the coast beside the harbour and Paphos Castle. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an open-air museum covering a large part of an ancient city founded in the late 4th century BC. Most of the remains are Roman. The main draw is the mosaic floors of the Houses of Dionysos, Theseus, Aion and Orpheus, which show scenes from Greek mythology. The Odeon, the Agora, the Asklepion and stretches of the city walls are also on the route. Entry is €4.50 per person.
An ancient capital founded in the late 4th century BC
Nea Paphos, meaning New Paphos, was founded in the late 4th century BC. One account credits King Nicocles with its construction. The city was enclosed by strong walls and became the centre of political and administrative life on Cyprus.
Around 58 BC the city came under Roman rule. It stayed a political, cultural and commercial hub of the island, and most of what is visible today dates from the Roman period. The site is still being excavated, and parts of it have not yet been fully uncovered. Beyond the Roman layer, the park holds monuments from prehistoric times through to the Middle Ages.
The villas and their mosaic floors
The mosaics are the main reason people come. They were found in 1961, when a farmer ploughing his land struck them, and excavation has continued since. The floors belong to four large villas of wealthy residents: the Houses of Dionysos, Theseus, Aion and Orpheus. Each is named after the figure from Greek mythology that its mosaics show.
The House of Dionysos is the best known, with scenes that include the triumph of Dionysos. In the House of Theseus, look for the panel of Theseus fighting the Minotaur, an easy one to point out to children. Across the villas the scenes are detailed and the colours remain clear.
Not every mosaic is on view. Some are no longer in their original place, and others are covered with sand or gravel for protection, with little explanation on site. The e-guide and app help fill that gap.
Public buildings, walls and the medieval fort
Away from the villas, the park shows how the city worked. The Odeon is a small limestone theatre used for performances. The Agora was the ancient marketplace, and the Asklepion is linked to early medical practice. Remains of the city walls are also visible.
The medieval fort of Saranta Kolones, dating from the 7th century, stands within the park. The stone building with buttresses that now serves as the visitor centre also belongs to the site. The lighthouse can be seen from inside the grounds, and the sea is never far from view.
Walking the site
The park is large and spread out, and a full visit takes two to three hours. Some people spend a whole morning or afternoon here. The ground is open and unpaved, so the walk is a gentle outdoor one. The entrance is wheelchair accessible, but the paths inside are uneven.
The free e-guide, reached by QR code at the entrance, lets you read as you walk or return to it later, which suits families with young children. The Paphos UNESCO app adds maps and audio tours, and it also covers the Tombs of the Kings.
The park sits next to Paphos Harbour and Paphos Castle, so it combines easily with a walk along the waterfront and a meal at one of the restaurants nearby. The Tombs of the Kings are a short drive to the north and can be seen on the same day.
FAQ
How much does it cost to enter the Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos?
Entry is €4.50 per person. Check the official Paphos heritage website before you go in case prices have changed.
How long do you need at Nea Paphos?
Plan on 2 to 3 hours to see the main areas. The site is large, and you can easily fill a whole morning or afternoon.
Is Nea Paphos good for children?
Yes. The mosaics with gods, heroes and the Minotaur hold children's attention, and the free e-guide lets parents read as they walk. Toilets are at the entrance and at a couple of points inside.
Is there parking at the site?
Yes, there is a free car park by the entrance, and it has wheelchair accessible spaces.
What should you bring?
Bring water, sunscreen and a hat, because there is little shade. Wear sturdy shoes, as the paths are not paved. A vending machine at the entrance sells cold drinks.
Can you combine Nea Paphos with other sights?
Paphos Harbour and Paphos Castle are right next to the park. The Tombs of the Kings are a short drive north of the harbour area.
