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Current: Saranta Kolones (Forty Columns) Castle

Saranta Kolones (Forty Columns) Castle

Tickets

€4,50 / Tombs of the Kings additional €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.
Opening Times

April 16 - September 15, daily: 08:30 - 19:30
September 16 - April 15, daily: 08:30 - 17:00
All year round.
Closed on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Easter Sunday (Greek Orthodox).
Phone

+357 26 306 217

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.

Located just north of Paphos Harbour in the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, the Byzantine fortress known as Saranta Kolones (Forty Columns) earned its name due to the discovery of numerous granite columns on-site, which are believed to have once been part of the ancient agora.

Historically, this castle was constructed towards the end of the 7th century AD with the primary purpose of safeguarding the port and the city of Nea Paphos from Arab raids. It underwent renovations during the rule of the Lusignans.

Encircled by a three-meter thick wall, the castle boasted eight towers and a protective moat, accessible via a wooden bridge. Its square courtyard, measuring 35 meters in both length and width, featured a tower at each corner, while the main entrance was through a fifth tower with a horseshoe-shaped design on the east side.

Sadly, the castle met its demise in 1223, when an earthquake struck and left it in ruins, leading to its eventual abandonment.

Getting there

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