Kourion - An Ancient Kingdom of Cyprus

Conspicuously situated on a steep, vertical rise above the Mediterranean, Kourion has been referred to by Herodotus as an ancient city, founded by Greeks from Argos. Throughout the Hellenistic and Roman periods  Kourion served as an important city center and only met its end in an earthquake in the 4th century A.D. The site includes a theater, Roman Forum, Early Christian Basilica, and multiple "Houses" with beautiful mosaics.

The Monastery of Agios Neophytos

What a beautiful place! After a long day of seeing ancient city sites, I have to admit, the crisp breeze wafting up from the coast with the smell of pine was a nice way to finish the adventure. Originally a cave (shown below), this hermitage houses some of the most beautiful frescoes I have seen (and sadly was not permitted to take pictures). If you happen to be in the Paphos/Polis area make sure to stop by this quiet place.

Kolossi Castle - Grand Commandery of the Knights Templar

I am going to get mushy for a moment and state that this was by far the most romantic site I have been to on the island. Upon my arrival, my first thought was - wow....its a big, stone box. But once you cross the draw-bridge, climb the winding staircase and look out over the ramparts, the place takes you hostage and immediately transports you to the 12th century when Richard the Lionheart roamed the island of Cyprus.

The Sanctuary of Apollo

Apollo, the Greek god of light, sun, poetry and music, is a very important deity worshiped in ancient Cyprus. His sanctuary, close to Kourio, is enveloped by a forest on a cliff, overlooking the Mediterranean. What remains of the four pillared temple of the sun god is a testament to the writings of Strabo who recalls those who touched the altar of the temple were thrown over the cliffs into the sea. Additions to the site were made by Trajan and continued until the end of the Roman era.

Holy Frescoes! The Holy Church of Saints Rafail, Nikolaos and Eirini

Just a quick spotlight on one of the many contemporary churches dotting the coast of Cyprus. Every inch of every wall is covered with intricate designs, patterns, and stories from the Old Testament. I don't know how Greek Orthodox members stay focused on Sundays.... I would be so distracted!

Paphos! Stone Caves and Cactus

I am constantly made fun of for my pictures of cactus however, being from Arizona I never imagined cactus would be native to anywhere but the Southwest. I was wrong. While visiting these stone caverns in Paphos, I found that prickly pear and a less prickly form of cholla call the island home. Still cant believe it...

Paphos! Ethnographic Museum

A private establishment, the Ethnographic Museum of Paphos is one of the richest museums on the island. It houses the collections of Mr. Eliades, an intellectual interested in and a collector of Cypriot folk art, history, archaeology and literature. Anything you can imagine related to Cyprus is housed in this moderately sized establishment.