The natural environment has produced a climate unique in the whole island of Cyprus. The short winter is mild, while summer - the longest season of all - is relatively cool. The bitter north winds are halted at the low mountains in the centre of the district and are prevented from reaching the coastal plains near the beaches of Paphos. However, fresh breezes - those which led Aphrodite to the shores of Paphos - blow unhindered and cool the area in summer.

Christianity and the Ancient Greek religions have left their strong marks on the historical course of Paphos and indeed the whole of Cyprus. Paphos, which accepted the worship of the eastern Goddess Astarte and transformed it into an erotic mystic religion, was also the first place in the Roman Empire to welcome the new eastern religion officially. The Roman pro-consul of Paphos became the first christian governor in the whole Pagan world.

In this book you will find brief accounts of the history, archaeology and historical sites as well as of contemporary life in Paphos. Included are the most important places of interest in the town and district of Paphos. The book includes:

- a brief outline of the history of Paphos

- places of interest in the town of Paphos

- a tour of Kato Paphos

- a tour of the places of interest around the town of Paphos