Paphos is a treasure trove of stunning and remarkable historical sites that you shouldn’t miss, even if you’re not a history buff. One of the most beautiful must-visit destinations in Paphos that can be described as the city’s symbol is the Paphos Castle.
It is only a small fort by Paphos’ Harbor, yet its beauty and majestic views make it a worthwhile destination. So, let’s see why Paphos Castle is worth visiting and why it should be part of your Paphos itinerary.
Where is Paphos Castle?
Paphos Castle is by the harbor in Kato Paphos, a resort area in Paphos, a coastal city in the southwestern part of Cyprus.
How to Get to the Paphos Castle
The castle is only about a 15 to 20-minute drive away from Paphos International Airport and can be reached easily by Paphos’ well-connected bus network.
The closest bus stop to the castle is the Paphos Harbor station, where bus lines 606, 610, 611, and 631 stop.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit Paphos Castle?
Below I’ve written a short history of this interesting castle and it is worth walking out of the castle and around it. It’s free to go inside the entrance of Paphos Castle and there are usually a few exhibitions in the empty main room.
It is a two-story structure with a central courtyard, towers at each corner, sturdy walls, and battlements.
There’s a small kiosk on the back wall of the main room on the ground floor where you buy tickets to go upstairs. Pretty much the only point of going upstairs is for the view.
The cost of the entrance ticket is €2,50 per person. The best way to see the castle is to buy a one-day or multi-day entry card and see the Nea Paphos Archaeological Park right next to the castle, and perhaps also the Tombs of the Kings, on the same day.
One (1) day entry cards – €8,50
three (3) day entry cards – €17
seven (7) day entry cards – €25
A Brief History of Paphos Castle
Paphos Castle was originally a Byzantine fort that protected the city from the Arab invaders and pirates. However, the initial fort was largely destroyed by the earthquake in 1222.
But during the Frankish era, the Lusignans rebuilt the fort. Specifically, they strengthened and expanded the original Byzantine fortress to defend the city against potential invaders. It thus became one of the key Crusader castles of the Middle Ages.
Still, the castle continued to change as the city saw many different conquerors and colonizers.
For instance, during the Venetian period, Paphos Castle underwent even more changes as they transformed the fortress into a more prominent fortification. They reinforced the castle’s walls, added defenses, and created a moat surrounding the structure.
In the following centuries, the castle continued to be modified, with the Ottomans making more significant changes according to their military needs.
Today, the structure is the 1592 Ottoman restoration of the western Frankish tower and its Venetian additions, such as remains of the fortified walls and the moat.
In 1878, the Ottomans sold Cyprus to the British, who no longer used the castle for military purposes. Instead, they used it as a salt store until 1935, when the British government declared it an Ancient Monument under the Antiquities Law.
Paphos Harbour Castle today
Today, Paphos Castle stands as a historical monument and a popular tourist attraction at the edge of the Paphos Harbor, providing views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city.
It is open all year round, and the entrance ticket is only €2,50, allowing all visitors to easily explore and wander through its corridors, rooms, and exhibition spaces with artifacts, historical displays, and artworks, as well as marvel at the magnificent views from the towers.
The castle is often used as a beautiful backdrop for events, concerts, theatrical performances, and festivals.
For instance, depending on the time of year you visit you may see the Aphrodite Festival, the Paphos Beer Festival, or the Paphos Wine Festival.
Also, interestingly, the castle’s courtyard can be used for wedding ceremonies. So, if you’re looking for a fairytale-like spot for your wedding, why not marry in this magnificent medieval castle?
