On the western coast of Cyprus lies a city steeped in myth and history. Few realize that Paphos was the capital of Cyprus during the Hellenistic and Roman eras, serving as both a religious sanctuary and a center of political power. From royal courts to Roman villas, Paphos flourished for centuries as one of the island’s most important urban hubs.
Paphos was the capital of Cyprus during the Hellenistic and Roman eras
A Capital Rises in the Hellenistic World
After Alexander the Great died, the Ptolemies gained control of Cyprus. They added the island to their eastern Mediterranean realm. Soon after, Paphos rose to power. Its location by the coast gave it both strategic and religious value. Just nearby stood the famous Sanctuary of Aphrodite in Old Paphos. Because of this, the Ptolemies saw the area as ideal for their new capital. They founded Nea Paphos in the late 4th century BC. From then on, it became the seat of their governors and a key center of administration.
Its strategic harbor linked it to Alexandria and other major Hellenistic cities, while its religious status as the island’s spiritual center boosted its prestige. Aphrodite, the goddess of love and fertility, was said to have been born from the sea foam near Paphos—making it a major destination for pilgrims.
Roman Rule and Cultural Brilliance
When Cyprus passed into Roman hands in 58 BC, Paphos remained the capital. Roman officials expanded the city with temples, theaters, baths, and luxurious villas. The famous House of Dionysus and other mosaics reflect the wealth and artistry of the period. Paphos also became a hub for early Christianity; according to the Acts of the Apostles, St. Paul visited the city and converted the Roman proconsul.
A Legacy Set in Stone
Because Paphos was the capital of Cyprus during the Hellenistic and Roman eras, its legacy survives in both ruins and reputation. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history lives in every mosaic and column. Paphos is not only a coastal resort—it is a window into Cyprus’s golden age of empire, culture, and faith.