I am a 17 year old kid who likes doing things like DIY, woodwork and playing computer games. Not you...
I am a 17 year old kid who likes doing things like DIY, woodwork and playing computer games. Not your average 17 year old really ;-)
Member since:18.08.2007
Reviews:25
Members who trust:22
Cyprus is one of the best places to visit if you like exploring archaeological sites and ruins. After a recent visit to the island, I have decided to write about a few of these places. At the top of my list is the Tombs of the Kings.
Tombs of the kings is a huge ancient cemetery in Paphos. Despite the name, the Tombs of the Kings was never used for royal burials. Instead, rich citizens were laid to rest in the site. Tombs of the Kings is named so because of the impressive appearance of the tombs. The area was used for burials during the Hellenistic and Roman times. After this, it was used as a refuge place for early Christians during times of persecution. Some of the larger tombs were used by squatters during medieval times who altered some of the architecture. Unfortunately, the site was also popular with looters who stole many artefacts. Nowadays, the site is completely open to visitors to roam freely.
Because of the age of the tombs, many are just ruins now. However, there are some tombs that are almost completely intact. These are really interesting to look around. There are many nooks and crannies to peek into, and if your really adventurous, crawl through. I wouldn't really advise the latter tough, as Cyprus is home to several species of snake (but only one is harmful).
When you are exploring the different tombs, you can get a real sense of the architecture of the time, as the burial sites reflected the style of houses. Quite a few of the tombs have a central atrium (open air courtyard) with several rooms leading off. In each of these rooms are several burial places, cut into the rock. Each large tomb has a well, apparently for funeral ceremonies. All of the tombs are cut from the natural rock, which makes the site even more amazing. Many of the steps going down into the tombs have been replaced though, for safety purposes.
A visit to the tombs pf the Kings will take about half a day, depending on the weather. Because of the nature of the site, it would be impossible to walk around with a wheelchair. You may also have difficulty if you cannot walk very well, as there is are a lot of uneven steps. If you visit, take a drink with you as there are no refreshment facilities on the site, and Cyprus can get VERY hot. Tombs of the Kings is a very large site, stretching from the main road to the sea, and walking round it is tiring. I personally wouldn't carry around a big camera of camcorder (been there, done that) because of all of the clambering. Unfortunately, there are few infomation signs around the site. However, the guidebook tells alot about the site.
There is a car park at Tombs of the Kings. In the summer, try to park in the shade of a tree, otherwise, your return journey will be unbearable. Parking is free. It is also possible to walk from Paphos harbour, up the main road to the site. Remember though, you have got to walk around the site and walk back if you do this. It may be possible in winter, when it isn't too hot, but in summer…
If you visit Paphos, Tombs of the Kings is well worth the visit. It only costs CYPŁ1 (about €1.70), which is extremely good value. If you're lucky, you might even see a snake (remember - only one is harmful).
Please note that from 1st January 2008, Cyprus will convert to the Euro.
NH Hotels, the hotel chain leader in Europe, with more than 300 hotels in 20 countries in Europe, Latin America and Africa. Enter into our web site and find the best available tariff at all times
Advantages: Quite cheap, excellent beaches, hotels and nightclubs, many historic sites Disadvantages: Might get too warm, please don't visit the north.
Alexis1 16.12.2000 ·
Read review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful
Review of General: Cyprus
Are you the manufacturer / provider of Tombs of the Kings, Paphos? Click here
Dec 31st, 2007
exceptional by (3%):
very helpful by (92%):
helpful by (5%):
