Paphos - Rock of the Greek / Aphrodite's Rock

(Local Name: Páfos - Pétra tou Romioú) Six mi/nine km from Kouklia, we come to the Petra tou Romaiou, the legendary spot where Aphrodite is said to have emerged from the waves ("Odyssey", Vlll, 362).

The Greek name of the rock "Petra tou Romiou" or "Rock of the Greek" is associated with the legendary Byzantian frontier-guard, Digenis Akritas. It is said he kept Arab pirates at bay by throwing rocks at them from the hillside above.

There are two large rocks in the sea, set against the white cliffs above and the turquoise of the Mediterranean below.

The beach is shingly but the setting is spectacular.

The scene has been a source of inspiration for many poets and painters, the most famous