Paphos or (Pafos), a town famous for its beauty and rich history from ancient times, is one of the towns one can explore and travel through time. The Old town Paphos, also known as Ktima. Within the old town you will find medieval, Ottoman and neoclassical builds demonstrating the island’s rich colonial history.
Why you should visit it?
Architecture
It was renovated in 2015 after an initiative by the municipality of Paphos with the help of The Cyprus Association of Librarians – Information Scientists (CALIS). Paphos’ Public Library opened its doors to the public in 1946, where it hosted many cultural activities. Founded by the mayor of time Christodoulos Galatopoulos, who it was named after subsequently. It now holds 26,000 volumes, including historic documents and rare publications.
Municipal Gardens
In the same square you will find the Town Hall, another neoclassical building built within the Municipal Gardens. An architectural reference to ancient Greece with the Parthenon like columns. Another neoclassical historic building found in the old city, is the District Administration of Paphos, which was renovated during the city’s restoration.
Old Post Office
Another 1920s build is the old Post office located next to the District Administration. Finally visit the ‘Palia Ilektriki’ (Old Powerhouse) Cultural Centre which has recently been transformed and hold various events.
Kenenedy Square & Shopping Street
Old Town Market
Shops selling leather shoes, jewellery, souvenirs, spectacles and sunglasses and designer labels and the Municipality fruit market. The Old town market is an experience that should not be missed. Built in the 1920s where meat, fish and vegetable traders sold their produce, it has now been transformed.
Take a stroll through the market to find unique shops selling leather shoes, jewelry, souvenirs, spectacles, sunglasses and designer labels and discover the Cypriot culture in person. Step out to the Municipality Market just next door and find an array of colorful fresh fruit, vegetables and local produce for a true taste of Cyprus.
Paintings, silk, porcelain and wood workshops
‘Hani of Ibrahim’ and cypriot craftsmen creating local art
Archbishop Makarios Avenue
Religious interest monuments
Religion plays an important part in the Cypriot culture, hence the old city includes many religious monuments including the St Kendeas church, St. Thedoros church, the Ottoman baths and Ayia Sofia mosque. Saint Kendeas church was built in 1923 and opened officially in 1952. The Saint’s name is celebrated on October 6th and many visit the church on the day to worship him. Saint Theodoros church is located near the Byzantine Museum, built in 1896 and renovated in 1917 and 1923.
Street Art
If you take a wander around the streets of old Paphos, you will occasionally stumble upon some random art installations. Most of them are situated in a small area to the west of Kennedy Square. However, there are a few others scattered around, so it pays to explore.
StreetArt Square is an annual event that takes place in Paphos Old Town. During the festival, street artists from all around the world are gathered in order to create their works on the walls of Paphos. Each year a different part of the town is chosen and parallel events such as concerts, conferences and screenings take place.
Musuems
Working Hours:
Monday-Friday: 08:00 – 16:00
Closed on weekends
Entrance Fee: €2,50
Sunset
Cafes, lounge bars & restaurants
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