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Paphos

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Phedonas Phedonos

Duing the Neolithic period, Palaepaphos was a centre of the cult of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty. According the mythology the birthplace of Aphrodite was on the island. In the ancient times the Old Paphos became the most famous and important place for worshipping Aphrodite.

After 1974, there was rapid economic development in Paphos, especially in tourism in the Kato Paphos area. The Cypriot government invested in irrigation dams and water distribution works, infrastructure and the creation of Paphos International Airport, the second international airport in the country.

Paphos is a coastal city and the capital of Paphos District.  It is located in the southwest of Cyprus, on the Mediterranean coast, about 50 km west of Limassol. The population of the city is arround 32,754 inhabitants (2011).

The economy of Paphos is based on tourism. In Paphos districk there are four resorts: Kato Paphos, Coral bay, Latchi and Aphrodite Hills. The largest one is Kato Paphos which employs over half of the population of the city. Here is located also the second largest international airport of Cyprus. The harbour is not economically important, but Paphos Marina has cultural and historical importance and it is used for fishing. Farming (banana, grape and tobacco cultivation) also contributes significantly to the economy of the town.

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TOURISM

Paphos is listed as an UNESCO World Heritage for its spectacular ancient remains. The town was selected as European Capital of Culture in 2017, along with Aarhus.

Paphos is well known for such cultural treasures as the Tomb of the Kings, Mosaics, Castle and numerous Churches, however it is also popular for its festivals and annual events.

Every September, Paphos holds an opera event - Paphos Aphrodite Festival - in the open air at the harbour. The Castle provides a spectacular backdrop and stage for the performance. En Plo also plays an important role, providing the facilities for this event. During the rest time of the year, En Plo hosts numerous art exhibition and craft fairs. Another annual event is Open Studios Cyprus, taking place in October. During this event selected artists open their studio doors to the general public, providing an informal environment to view and discuss their work.