UNESCO World Heritage SiteUNESCO Heritage
Tombs of the Kings (Paphos)
Cyprus

Tombs of the Kings (Paphos)

Rock-cut necropolis with Doric columns.

Location

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Historical Context

About

The Tombs of the Kings in Paphos, Cyprus, is a significant archaeological site that features a large necropolis carved into solid rock. Dating back to the 4th century BCE, these tombs were used as burial sites for Paphitic aristocrats and high officials until the 3rd century CE. Despite its name, no kings were buried here; instead, the tombs are renowned for their grandeur, including Doric columns and frescoed walls. The site provides valuable insights into the burial practices of the Hellenistic and early Roman periods in the Eastern Mediterranean. Although some grave goods and bodies have been lost over time, the tombs' historical and archaeological importance remains well-recognized.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

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Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Construction of Tombs

300 BCE

Use of Tombs

200 CE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Burial and Funerary Structures

Tombs
category

Artistic and Decorative Features

Frescoed Walls
Knowledge Base

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Reference

Details

Country

Cyprus

Coordinates

34.77° N, 32.41° E