Epochs
After Alexander the Great, the island entered the Hellenistic world of the Ptolemies and later became a Roman province. We explore this period through Nea Paphos, tombs, theatres, villas and mosaics.
312 BCE–395 CE
Mythological scenes on mosaic floors turn the archaeological park into a vast picture book. They provide opportunities to discuss the Roman Empire, urban life, medicine, entertainment and the transition from antiquity to the Christian era.
What do mosaics reveal about the tastes, education and status of the owners of Roman houses?
the Ptolemies · the Roman Empire · Mediterranean cities · classical mythology
The foundation of a new harbour, the monumental tombs and Paphos’s later role as the capital of the island.
Our personal choice: vessels shaped like parts of the human body that ancient physicians used as warming devices.
The Roman villas are famous for depictions of Theseus and Dionysus and for intricate geometric compositions.
We combine the mosaics, odeon, agora and other monuments into one route through Nea Paphos.
We include this small museum because after walking among large ruins it brings the objects from Kourion back to a human scale.
We pair the sanctuary with Kourion: the city and its sacred landscape explain one another.
