Plizio Visual Lab
Paphos Castle
Paphos Medieval Castle, standing guard at the western edge of the city's harbour, is one of the most iconic and frequently photographed landmarks in Cyprus. Originally built as a Byzantine fort to protect the port, it was later expanded by the Lusignans in the 13th century, only to be dismantled by the Venetians in 1570 to prevent it from falling into Ottoman hands. The massive stone structure seen today is an Ottoman reconstruction dating back to 1592, as indicated by an inscription above its main entrance. Throughout its turbulent history, the castle has served multiple purposes, including as a fortress, a prison, and even a salt warehouse during the British colonial period. It consists of a sturdy central tower surrounded by a defensive wall, accessible via a small bridge spanning a moat. Today, the castle is a protected monument and serves as the majestic backdrop for the annual Paphos Aphrodite Festival opera performances. Its rooftop platform features visitors sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Location: Cyprus
- Top sights: Paphos Castle · Castle Square · En Plo
- Nearby: Kissonerga (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 12 | 14 | 17 | 20 | 24 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 22 | 17 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 89 | 55 | 33 | 18 | 13 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 10 | 27 | 43 | 92 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The Ottomans completely rebuilt the castle in the year 1592.
- An inscription above the main gate confirms the reconstruction by Ahmet Pasha.
- The British utilized the fortress as a salt warehouse until 1935.
- The building is part of the Paphos UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The castle features several dark dungeon cells on the ground floor.
- Entry to the castle is via a narrow stone bridge across the moat.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Paphos Castle (10)
Jolly Roger
Jolly Roger is an attraction in Paphos.
Atlantis Turtle Watching Cruise
Atlantis Turtle Watching Cruise is a boat trip in Paphos for observing sea turtles.
Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa
Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa is a ruin in Paphos.
Archaeological Park🏛 museum
Archaeological Park is a museum in Paphos.
Faros Kato Pafou
Faros Kato Pafou is a protected area in Cyprus.
Saint Paul's Pillar (Paphos)
Saint Paul's Pillar is a monument in Paphos.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Paphos Castle located?
Can you go up to the castle roof?
What was the castle originally built for?
Is there much to see inside?
Is the castle accessible?
Paphos Castle: where is it located?
Paphos Castle: what is there to see?
Paphos Castle: when is the best time to visit?
Paphos Castle: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
History & landmarks
