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Panayia Chrysopolitissa Church in Paphos


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Paphos, being an important city in Cyprus, enjoys a wonderful Mediterranean climate implying that there will be sunshine throughout the year. If you plan to visit Paphos for a vacation with family, any time in the year is the right time. The winters here are shorter compared to other nearby cities and moderate too. There are several flights to Paphos almost every day and the International Airport is situated about 15km from the city of Paphos. Flights can also be booked online and you get to save money on the tickets too, especially if booked in advance.

If you are keen on exploring the culture and history of Paphos then you will be happy to know that the city of Paphos has reserved a place in the official list of natural and cultural treasures of the world heritage created by UNESCO. Your exact location in the city of Paphos is of no significance as you will time and again encounter some unique historical aspects, which date back several years.

Goddess Aphrodite is known to have been born at Paphos, the city consists of a number of monasteries and churches accompanied by beautiful natural landscapes and scenery. In Roman and Hellenistic times, Paphos was recognized as the capital of Cyprus and till today it boasts of many historical treasures and divine mediaeval monasteries and churches. The Panayia Chrysopolitissa Church happens to be just one of the grand churches in the city.

The Panayia Chrysopolitissa Church was constructed in the 13th century on a site that revealed the ruins of earliest as well as the largest Byzantine basilicas. This was considered to be the largest basilica on the island. While going through the Panayia Chrysopolitissa Church you will come across the St. Pauls Pillar. The Roman Governor named Sergius Paulus took to Christianity around the same time.

The Church consisted of about 7 aisles originally but they were brought down to 5 in number. The floors of the church were originally basilica and layered with colorful mosaics. A considerable number has been preserved and is visible here even today.

Excavations are constantly going on at the ancient site and every day springs newer surprises and treasures. Usually seen at most ancient churches and similar tourist sites at Paphos, mosaics truly impress the visitors as they are very prominent and beautifully handcrafted. The church is a must visit and should not be missed during your stay at Paphos.

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