SEE THE PAPHOS MOSAICS
AT THE PAPHOS ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK
A ROMAN LEGACY
Cyprus became a province of Rome in 58BC and Paphos, because of its location on the western coast, was promply installed as their capital city on the island. Roman administrators maintained a constant building program right up to when their rule ended in 325AD.
The public and private buildings that were constructed during this period included a number of stunning mosaics that have survived till today. The Paphos Mosaics are a good example of such mosaics on the island and since their discovery, they have been carefully preserved.
WHAT IS A MOSAIC?
A mosaic is a depiction of a scene that is made up of thousands of tiny, cut to size, colored pieces of stone, marble or glass. These very small geometric tiles are known as ‘Tesserae’ and they are carefully arranged to form intricate and detailed
images. They are assembled using a malleable cement based type of putty, which is used as used not only as an adhesive, but for assembling the ‘Tessarae’. The precision and skill required to create a mosaic is tremendous and it takes craftsmen many years to hone their skills.
A FARMERS DISCOVERY
The Paphos Mosaics were discovered by accident by a farmer plowing his fields by the PAPHOS LIGHTHOUSE in 1962. After the discovery, the whole site was excavated to reveal amongst other things the remains of four substantial Roman villas containing well preserved mosaics.
The humble farmer’s field would later become the Paphos Archaeological Park, and the mosaics of the the four Roman villas would come to be known as the Paphos Mosaics. Today these mosaics are considered to be amongst the finest Roman era mosaics in the world.
THE FOUR HOUSES
The remains of the four Roman villas are known as the The House of Dionysos, the House of Theseus, the House of Aion and the House of Orpheus and their mosaics are collectively known as the Paphos Mosaics. The protected heritage site contains mosaics from the 2nd to the 5th centuries AD and includes a collection of the most beautiful examples of Roman art on the island and in the world. Each house contains a unique and impressive collection of mosaics that depict a wide range of subjects, which include
mythological, religious, agricultural, and daily life scenes. The Paphos mosaics are an important cultural and historical Cyprus treasure, not only significant for their artistic and historical value, but also for their role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Cyprus.
THE HOUSE OF DIONYSOS
The mosaics that are housed within the House of Dionysos are particularly noteworthy for their size and geometry. This site is named after the god of wine and the mosaics here depict scenes from Greek mythology, which feature the triumph of Dionysos and the mythical sea monster Scylla. Other mosaics portray scenes attributed to Acme, Ikarios, Poseidon, Amymone, Pyramone, Thisbe, Zeus, Ganymedes,
Phaedra, Hippolytus and Daphne. Hunting scenes as well as Narcissus and the personification of the four seasons also feature. The mosaics also include intricate geometric patterns and floral designs, showcasing the skill and artistry of the craftsmen that created them.
THE HOUSE OF THESEUS
The mosaics that are housed within the House of Theseus are particularly noteworthy for their vivid colours and complexity. This site is named after the hero Theseus and the mosaics here depict scenes from Greek mythology, which feature Theseus battling the Minotaur in the labyrinth and Aridne.
Other mosaics portray scenes attributed to Poseidon, Amphitrite and a newly born Achilles. The level of detail and expression in these mosaics is truly remarkable, and they provide a vivid glimpse into the ancient world and the stories that captivated the people of that time.
THE HOUSE OF AION
The mosaics that are housed within the House of Aion are particulary noteworthy for their extreme detail and cymetry. This site is named after the god of eternity and the cyclical nature of time and depict scenes from Greek mythology, that feature the passage of time and the changing of the seasons personified as figures surrounded by various symbols and motifs. Other mosaics portray scenes attributed to Lyda with Zeus
in the form of a Swan, an infant Dionysos, Hermes, Nymphs, Anatrophe and Tropheus. Other scenes depict a beauty contest between Cassiopeia and the Nereids, a music competition between Apollo and Marsyas and a Dionysian procession which includes maeniads and virile satyrs.
THE HOUSE OF ORPHEUS
The mosaics housed within the The House of Orpheus are particulary noteworthy for their intricate designs and neutral colours. This site is named after the musician that
challenged Hades for the soul of his wife and depict scenes from Greek mythology, that features the sounds of Orpheus’s lyre taming wild animals. Other mosaics portray scenes attributed to the battle of Hercules with the Nemean Lion, and a militant Amazonian horsewoman.
THE LEVEL OF DETAIL
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Paphos Mosaics is the level of detail and expression in each mosaic. The figures and scenes in the mosaics are depicted with a remarkable level of realism and emotion, capturing the essence of the stories and events they depict. The mosaics also showcase
a wide range of artistic techniques and styles, including perspective, shading, and foreshortening. These techniques were used to create a sense of depth and movement in the mosaics, bringing the scenes to life and immersing the viewer in the stories and events they depict.
SOCIAL & CULTURAL LIFE
The Paphos Mosaics are also significant for their historical and archaeological value. The ornate mosaic floors provide important evidence of the architectural and decorative practices of wealthy land owners during the Roman period in Cyprus. The mosaics also offer an interesting insight into the social and cultural life of the period and to an extent also offer an insight into the beliefs, customs, and daily life of these people. The mosaics provide important evidence of the cultural and religious practices of the time, shedding light on the beliefs and values of the people who created and lived among
these magnificent artworks. The mosaics also offer valuable information about the techniques and materials used in their creation, as well as the methods of preservation and conservation that were employed after their creation, alloweing these artworks to survive for centuries.
PRESERVATION
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the Paphos Mosaics among scholars, archaeologists, and art enthusiasts from all over the world. Research and conservation efforts have been carried out to better understand the history and significance of these mosaics, as well as to develop new techniques for their preservation and restoration. The preservation and protection of the Paphos Mosaics have been a priority
for Cyprus authorities and various international organisations since their discovery in 1962. Efforts have been made to ensure the long-term conservation of these mosaics, including measures to protect them from environmental damage, vandalism, and theft.
A TOURIST ATTRACTION
These exceptional mosaics are amongst the world’s finest and are a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world, admiring their beauty and historical significance. The mosaics are a testament to the rich cultural heritage
of Cyprus and provide a unique opportunity to catch a glimpse of the island’s history and the ancient world. Visitors to Paphos can explore the sites that contain the mosaics, learning about their history and significance while marveling at their beauty and craftsmanship.
A CULTURAL TREASURE
The Paphos Mosaics continue to be a source of pride for the people of Cyprus and inspiration for visitors from around the world and they are both a remarkable and important cultural treasure that provides valuable insights into the art and history of the ancient world. These mosaics are not only significant for their artistic and historical value but also for their role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Cyprus. The mosaics are a testament to the skill and creativity of the ancient craftsmen who created them and continue to be a source of pride and inspiration for the people of Cyprus.
Efforts to preserve and protect these mosaics have been successful, ensuring that they can be enjoyed by future generations and continue to captivate and inspire all who have the opportunity to experience them within the Archaeological Park of Kato Paphos.
The Paphos Archaeological Park, which houses the Paphos Mosaics, is an archaeological site that contains the ruins of an important ancient Greco Roman city. The park is open to the public 7 days a week and a minimal entrance fee of a few euros is charged. A ticket can be purchased at the door on arrival and senior citizens receive a discount. Children can enter for free.
The Paphos Archaeological Park encompasses a large area and as well as the Paphos Mosaics, visitors can experience the well preseved ancient settlement, which includes a number of buildings. The PAPHOS LIGHTHOUSE is also in view of the park.
Opening hours
April 16th to September 15th – 8.30am till 7.30pm
September 16th to April 15th – 8:30am till 5:00pm
Tel: 26 306 217
