Tombs of the Kings, Underground necropolis in Paphos, Cyprus.
Description
The Tombs of the Kings is an underground necropolis in Paphos carved into rock with eight separate burial complexes. Each complex features columned courtyards, staircases descending into the earth, and multiple chambers designed for families and their household members.
History
The necropolis dates to the 4th century BC and remained in use until the 3rd century AD. It was established during the Ptolemaic period when Alexandria's architectural styles influenced the island.
Culture
The tombs reflect a blend of Egyptian design traditions with local traditions, built for important local families rather than royalty. Visitors can observe how the architecture combines features of residential homes, with columned courtyards suggesting the tombs were designed to resemble dwellings for the deceased.
Practical
Entry to the tombs requires descending stairs into the rock, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The chambers are cool and dim inside, making a flashlight helpful for reading inscriptions and viewing the carved details throughout the site.
Did you know?
One of the tombs contains remnants of a medieval pottery workshop that was set up inside the ancient burial chamber. This shows how later communities repurposed the ancient structures for their own needs long after the tombs were abandoned.
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Cyprus offers a range of locations for photography that blend history, nature, and architecture. The island presents ancient ruins such as the archaeological parks of Paphos and the sanctuary of Kourion, medieval castles including Saint Hilarion and Kolossi, and churches dating to the Byzantine...
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