Paphos is a popular and diverse seaside resort.
As well as providing comfortable accommodation for Cypriots and places for tourists to relax, it offers a high quality of life. There are many noteworthy historical landmarks and walking through the streets of the town you can see original buildings from different eras that stand out from the rest. This blog provides an overview of the buildings that stand out from the architectural background.
Cyprus University of Technology Faculty of Tourism
The modern building of the Faculty of Tourism, Hospitality and Entrepreneurship of the Cyprus University of Technology was recently handed over by the Paphos municipality to the administration of the university. The building, which will be completed in 2021, creates favourable prospects for the city's education sector and stimulates the development of the hospitality and tourism industry throughout Cyprus. The project, called TEPAK, covers an area of more than 10,000 m2 and its design includes several elements, the upper level of which appears to float above the building.
The architectural ensemble consists of two multi-storey buildings separated by an open courtyard and connected by a gallery with windows. The content and method of study provide students with the opportunity to acquire academic knowledge that will enable them to pursue a career in the service sector on the island and in other countries.
Address: 9 Ampelokipon str, Paphos
Paphos Castle
The castle, one of the most important historical monuments of Cyprus and a place of pilgrimage for tourists, is located to the west of the city harbour. At the beginning of the VI century a Byzantine fort was built on this site, which was destroyed by a violent earthquake in 1 222. A defensive structure was soon built in its place, consisting of two towers connected by a wall. The material used for the construction was common limestone.
At the beginning of the Cypriot-Genoese war, the castle was besieged by the Genoese, whose attacks were successfully repelled by the defenders for a whole year. In 1570, it was completely demolished by the Venetians in order to evade the advancing Ottoman invaders. The Turks rebuilt the fortress once they had established their power on the island. The ground floor was a hall with stone vaults and the rooms on either side were used as prison cells. During the British Protectorate it was used as a salt store. In 1935 Paphos Castle was declared an ancient monument and became one of the main attractions of the town. Today it is the venue for the Aphrodite Festival and the annual Opera Competition in September.
Address: Kato Paphos Harbour, Coastal Broadwalk, Paphos
MARKIDEI Theatre
The modern MARKIDEI theatre complex was reopened in 2018 after renovation by former president Nikos Anastasiades. The theatre is built in a cubic shape and owes its name to Sotirakis Markidei, a citizen and symbol of Paphos who played an important role in the cultural and political life of the city. The new Municipal Theatre has a capacity of over 400 spectators and has comfortable and functional rooms with modern equipment.
Particularly noteworthy is the renovation of the acoustics of the premises, without which a drama theatre can't function. The theatre company performs classical and modern plays and organizes concerts in the country and abroad. The MARKIDEI Theatre is also the largest concert hall in Paphos and one of the few places on the island where a symphony orchestra can rehearse.
Address: 18 Andrea Geroudi str. Paphos, Cyprus
Paphos Municipal Library
The Paphos Municipal Library was opened in 1946, shortly after the end of World War II. The founder of the cultural institution was the mayor of Paphos at the time - Christodoulos Galatopoulos, whose name it bears. The white building is built in neoclassical style, with a columned portico adorning the façade. In the three years following its opening, the library hosted many cultural events, and its founder was imprisoned by the British colonisers for being a nationalist threat to the authorities.
During the first decade of its existence, the library's collection grew considerably, also thanks to donations from the public. At the beginning of the current millennium, the city authorities decided to rebuild and modernise the library, and then included this project in the events and work of the European Capital of Culture 2017. Today, the library has more than 25,000 volumes, including rare editions and historical documents. As a cultural institution, it has made a significant contribution to the enlightenment and education of the city's inhabitants.
Address: 28 October Square, Paphos
Paphos District Court
Another modern building complex is the Paphos District Court, built in 2018. Its function is to continue the facade between two neighbouring buildings. The total area of the building is more than 4 thousand m2. Despite its purpose, the building is welcoming to the public and is characterised by comfort and functionality. The sufficient height of the room is complemented by the necessary staircase leading to the first floor.
An external wall shades the interior from the sun, while openings allow the necessary light to enter. Several landscaped courtyards - atriums - occupy the interior of the complex. Furnishings are custom-made to match the aesthetics of the building. Two underground levels provide parking for staff and visitors. The robust construction and energy efficiency of the complex fully comply with EU standards.
Address: Junction of Neophytou and Nicos Nicolaides Streets, Paphos, 8100.
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