Plizio Visual Lab

Paphos Fort

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

castle

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The Paphos Medieval Fort stands as a stoic guardian at the edge of the scenic Paphos harbour, serving as one of the city's most iconic historical landmarks. Originally built by the Byzantines as a coastal watchtower, it was significantly expanded and strengthened by the Lusignan dynasty in the 13th century. The fort suffered extensive damage during the Venetian period and was eventually dismantled by the Venetians themselves in 1570 to prevent it from falling into Ottoman hands. The current stone structure was rebuilt by the Ottomans in 1592, as evidenced by an inscription placed above the massive entrance gate. Throughout its turbulent history, the fortress has served varied roles, including a military stronghold, a prison, and even a salt storage facility during the British colonial administration. Today, the fort is a popular tourist attraction and the central backdrop for the annual Paphos Aphrodite Festival, where international operas are performed in the open air. The view from the rooftop battlements gives a panoramic perspective of the modern harbour and the vast Mediterranean beyond.

Location: Cyprus
Top sights: Jolly Roger · WaveDancer · Atlantis Turtle Watching Cruise
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

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Visiting

Paphos Fort at the harbor of Paphos is a small coastal fortress open to visitors. You can climb the walls and enjoy the view of the sea and the harbor.

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Typical hours

The fort is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, in summer until 7:00 PM. It may be closed on holidays. Check the official website for hours.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the site, including from the walls. The best shots are taken at sunset when the fort is lit in golden light.

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Time needed

A visit typically takes 20 to 30 minutes to explore the small fortress and enjoy the view. For photographers, an hour is recommended in good light.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with a walk along the Paphos harbor promenade with its taverns and shops. The nearby Tombs of the Kings and the Archaeological Museum are also worth a visit.

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Getting there

The fort is located directly at the eastern end of Paphos harbor, easily reachable on foot from the city center. Public buses stop at the nearby 'Kato Paphos' stop.

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Insider tip

Visit the fort in the late afternoon to avoid crowds and get the best light for photos. Combine your visit with a boat trip along the coast.

Geography

Coordinates

34.75400, 32.40900

Facts

The fort was originally established as a Byzantine castle in the 10th century.
The Ottoman reconstruction was completed in 1592.
It was used as a salt storehouse during the British rule until 1935.
The building was declared a protected ancient monument in 1935.
The castle consists of a central square tower with an enclosed courtyard.
It serves as the main stage for the Paphos Aphrodite Opera Festival every summer.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Paphos Castle<1 km · SExplore →

Karavella Bus Station2 km · NEExplore →

Paphos Luna Park3 km · NExplore →

Pafos Industrial Area5 km · NEExplore →

Kissonerga7 km · EExplore →

Pafos Karting Centre7 km · NExplore →

Paphos International Airport (PFO)9 km · NWExplore →

Agios Neophytos Monastery10 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Paphos Fort (10)

Jolly Roger

Attraction in Paphos, Cyprus, likely a ship or tour.

WaveDancer

Attraction in Paphos, Cyprus, likely a boat or tour.

🌐 wavedancercyprus.com🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-17:00

Atlantis Turtle Watching Cruise

Boat tour in Paphos, Cyprus, for watching sea turtles.

Castle Square

Theatre or event venue in Paphos, Cyprus.

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En Plo

Arts centre in Paphos, Cyprus.

Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa

Ruins of a basilica in Paphos, Cyprus.

Archaeological Park🏛 museum

Archaeological park in Paphos, Cyprus, with ancient sites.

Paphos amphitheatre

Roman amphitheatre in Paphos, Cyprus.

Saint Paul's Pillar (Paphos)

Pillar in Paphos, Cyprus, traditionally associated with Saint Paul.

Agia Kyriaki Chrisopolitissa

Church in Paphos, Cyprus.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When was the Paphos Fort originally built?

It was originally a Byzantine fortress, later rebuilt by the Lusignans and the Ottomans in 1592.

Can you visit the roof of the fortress?

Yes, visitors can climb to the roof for a panoramic view of the harbor.

Are there cultural events held at the fort?

Yes, the square in front of the fort hosts the Paphos Aphrodite Festival (opera) every September.

How much is the entrance fee?

Entrance costs approximately 2.50 Euro (as of 2024).

Is the fort open year-round?

Yes, it is open daily, though with shorter hours during winter.

Paphos Fort: where is it located?

Paphos Fort is located in Cyprus.

Paphos Fort: what is there to see?

Highlights include Jolly Roger, WaveDancer, Atlantis Turtle Watching Cruise.

Paphos Fort: when is the best time to visit?