Agiou Georgiou, Peyia, Paphos
Directions€2,50
For organised groups consisting of more than 10 persons there is a 20% reduction on the entry fees.
The Department of Antiquities can issue special entry cards for all its museums and ancient monuments: One (1) day entry cards - €8,50, three (3) day entry cards - €17,00, seven (7) day entry cards - €25,00.
April 16 - September 15, daily: 08:30 - 16:00
September 16 - April 15, daily: 09:30 - 17:00
All year round.
Closed on Public Holidays.
Note: The CultureSpot team is doing its best to provide the most accurate information through regular updates. However, operating hours, entrance fees and any details thereof are subject to change without prior notice. Visitors are recommended to verify the information before planning their visit.
The Agios Georgios archaeological site in the village of Pegeia, Paphos, holds significant religious importance in the region and has been a renowned place of pilgrimage for many years. Beginning in the 1950s, excavations at this site revealed compelling evidence of an Early Christian settlement.
These excavations brought to light three Early Christian Basilicas and a 6th-century bath. Later in the 1990s, additional excavations uncovered a sprawling unwalled settlement that extended across the neck and south slope of the cape during the Roman and early Christian periods.
Historical records indicate that the settlement thrived under Justinian I (527 - 565 AD) and its strategic location suggests it likely served as a port of call for ships transporting grain from Egypt to Constantinople.
Overlooking the cliff's edge, the necropolis features rock-carved tombs. At the heart of the settlement, situated on the cape's neck, stands the grand three-aisled 'Basilica A,' accompanied by a baptistery on its west side. Adjacent to the baptistery is a smaller three-aisled basilica with a transept.
The three-aisled 'Basilica B' is positioned at the foot of the southern slope of the cape, while the remains of the smaller 'Basilica C' can be found northeast of the settlement. Along the north side of the sacristy, oil press, well, guest-house, and courtyard, various adjacent structures complement this basilica.
The revered pilgrimage site of Agios Georgios is situated between the basilicas and the necropolis. Additionally, a small chapel, also named after Agios Georgios, dating back to the late 13th or early 14th century, can be found in the vicinity. More recently, a stone-built church of Agios Georgios was constructed, adding to the spiritual significance of the area.
Situated on the left bank of the river Pediaios, in the region that now encompasses the villages of Politiko, Pera, and Episkopio, stands a vast archaeological site with remarkable discoveries. Among the findings are the temple of Aphrodite, two grand royal tombs, and several smaller burial sites.
In the Dali Village area of Cyprus lies the significant archaeological site of Idalion, renowned for its abundant discoveries displayed in prestigious museums worldwide. The origins of this ancient city are attributed to Chalcanor, an Achaean hero from the Trojan War and a descendant of Teucer, the founder of Salamis.
Amathous, an important ancient city-kingdom in Cyprus, holds mythological significance as it was where the Greek hero Theseus left the pregnant Ariadne in the care of local women. The city was also a significant center for worshipping the Goddess Aphrodite-Astarte. The archaeological site of Amathous boasts a wealth of historical discoveries. Among them are the Agora, the public baths, the Temple of Aphrodite, early Christian basilicas, and several tombs.
Kourion, one of the island's most significant city-kingdoms in ancient times, boasts remarkable archaeological remains that have been extensively excavated. These findings can be explored at the site. Built atop hills, the city-kingdom of Kourion commanded a view of the fertile valley of the river Kouris. Archaeological evidence suggests a connection between Kourion and the Greek legend of Argos of Peloponnese, with its inhabitants believing they were descendants of Argean immigrants.
Kolossi castle stands as a splendid illustration of military architecture, originally constructed in the 13th century and later rebuilt in its current form during the 15th century. Following the fall of Acre in 1291, it assumed the role of the Grand Commandery for the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem.