The Tombs of the Kings can be visited
Ancient BuildingPaphos (Πάφος)
Tombs of the Kings (Paphos)
The Tombs of the Kings of Nea Paphos are an impressive ancient necropolis on the west coast of Cyprus. Although their name suggests royalty, they were built for wealthy citizens during the Ptolemaic period and bear witness to the affluence of the inhabitants, who drew inspiration from Egyptian models but utilized Greek architectural forms.
History+
The tombs were likely constructed in the 3rd century BC, a time when Cyprus was under Ptolemaic rule and the city-kingdoms no longer existed. The complex was designed for multiple burials. Architecturally, stepped dromoi are characteristic, leading to atrium-like peristyles from which burial chambers branch off. Some tombs exhibit unique features, such as a massive block within a rock-cut courtyard, showing parallels to the Mustafa Pasha Necropolis in Alexandria. A tomb complex discovered in 1983 in the north of the necropolis, featuring a 20-meter long stepped dromos and stucco decorations, is unique in Cyprus and also suggests connections to Alexandria or Macedonian tombs. The chambers were likely plundered as early as Roman times, and traces of crosses indicate later reuse in early Christian times. A medieval pottery kiln also points to a profane repurposing. In 1980, the ruins of Paphos, including the Tombs of the Kings, were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Location+
The Tombs of the Kings of Nea Paphos are located in Paphos, in the Paphos district, in the Republic of Cyprus on the island of Cyprus. They are situated at an elevation of approximately 9 meters above sea level.
On site+
The Tombs of the Kings are open to visitors today and can be explored.
Nearby+
- Ancient City of Paphos (Ancient Structures), approx. 2.0 km away
- Paphos Fort (Fortress), approx. 2.5 km away
- Ancient City of Lemba-Lakkous (Ancient Structures), approx. 4.2 km away
- Ancient City of Palaepaphos (Ancient Structures), approx. 17.2 km away
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Source: Wikipedia · Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0 · Image: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tombs_of_the_Kings_%28Paphos%29.jpg
This description draws on the facts documented in the linked Wikipedia article; Wikipedia content is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Wording and editing: Mobile History.
Location: 34.7757, 32.4055