21st - 28th August - Pafos, Cyprus

We spent the week in Cyprus, staying in the the city of Paphos.  Paphos is on the southwest coast of the Mediterranean island of Cyprus. Inhabited since Neolithic times, it has several sites relating to the cult of goddess Aphrodite, whose mythical birthplace was at Old Paphos (Kouklia). New Paphos is the modern city that incorporates the harbour, and the ancient ruins of tombs, fortresses, theaters and villas at Paphos Archaeological Park.

However, for us it was a different holiday this time, we did nothing but enjoy the sunshine, the pool and the food.  We were staying in a lovely property on the beach to the north of the city of Paphos.  There was one attempt to walk to the castle, but it was far too hot and we turned back after making it only halfway.

It was also a week away form wildlife and I was left watching Swallows pass overhead, a few Hooded Crows around the property and Collared Dove and Woodpigeons around the pool.  The only butterfly I could definitely identify was a Swallowtail, but no pictures.

There were some taken though, mostly of the spectacular sunset.  Early on it was hidden behind the palms

At the weekend a firework display.

Later in the week a concerted effort to get the sunset right.

Standing proudly at the western end of Paphos’ harbor, Paphos Castle, also known as the Medieval Fort, has a rich history that dates back to the Byzantine era. Initially, the Paphos Harbour Castle was built as a fortress to protect the harbour; it underwent several reconstructions and additions over the centuries, reflecting the island’s tumultuous history under various rulers.

The castle, as it stands today, is essentially the result of the Ottoman restoration in 1592. The Western Frankish Tower, with its Venetian elements, is a prominent feature of the castle’s architecture. 

Paphos Castle has a storied past of resisting invasions. Thanks to its resilient construction and strategic positioning, it withstood the Genoese invasion in 1373 and remained intact during the Mamluk attacks in 1426. 

The castle’s defenders, led by the fierce Spanish mercenary Sforza, demonstrated exceptional bravery during the Turkish invasion in 1570, although the castle was eventually destroyed after 16 days of intense fighting.

Following the Ottoman repair and subsequent occupation, the castle served as a military stronghold with a garrison of 100 men and 12 cannons. 

With the arrival of the British to Cyprus in 1878, the castle ceased its military functions and was repurposed as a salt depot until 1935.

The sun slowly sinking into the sea behind the castle.

Later in the evening a crescent moon between the palm trees that surround the property.

So a completely different holiday, but very enjoyable and resting.