You will find this grand structure — Paphos Castle, or the fort — at the far end of Paphos harbour, where it was built to protect the harbour and its surroundings. It was originally built in the Byzantine era, then rebuilt twice over the years, and finally restored to its former glory during the Ottoman era.
The castle is a listed building and is now open as an attraction, so you can walk around and see it from the inside. There are views everywhere you turn, and the courtyard in the middle sets you wondering what it must have felt like to be here defending the harbour.
Two odd facts
There is only one way in and out — the same main gate for both. And the building has had several lives: a fortress that became a prison, and then a warehouse for storing salt.
Festivals on the quay
Many festivals, events and functions are held around and in front of the castle. Picture the Aphrodite Festival in September, starting in daylight with the castle behind, turning into a sunset backdrop, and finishing with the castle lit up at night. There are local markets to explore too, and the birds and pelicans make for a relaxed walk along the pier. The views alone will have you coming back by day, at sunset and after dark.
More sightseeing around Paphos
Tombs of the Kings
A Hellenistic necropolis cut into solid rock, with underground peristyle atriums — and, despite the name, no kings.
Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock)
Where the goddess rose from the foam — sand on one side, pebbles on the other, and a myth about swimming round it three times.
Akamas Peninsula
230 square kilometres of untouched headland — the last large unspoiled coast on the island, and a Natura 2000 site.
Agios Neophytos Monastery
Founded in 1170 by the monk Neophytos, who carved his hermitage out of the rock.