Paphos

The city of New Paphos, which was the administrative center of the area during Roman times, was devastated by a powerful earthquake in 350 AD. The earthquake caused significant damage to the city's infrastructure, leading to its decline. Many of its imposing public buildings, including the Roman villas with their beautiful mosaics, were destroyed or left in ruins. This calamity marked the beginning of a period of decline for the city.

Paphos, along with the rest of Cyprus, came under the rule of the Lusignan dynasty starting in 1192 when Guy of Lusignan purchased the island from Richard the Lionheart, King of England. The Lusignan period saw significant fortification and architectural development in Paphos. As part of the Kingdom of Cyprus, Paphos was influenced by Western European feudal culture and the Latin Church. This era left a mark on the historical and physical landscape of Paphos.

During the medieval period, Paphos was a significant cultural and economic center within the Kingdom of Cyprus. It had a thriving port that facilitated trade between Europe and the Middle East. This era saw the construction of important Gothic structures, like churches and castles. Despite facing challenges such as invasions and plagues, Paphos maintained its importance in the region. The medieval period contributed richly to the cultural tapestry of Paphos.

In 1489, the Republic of Venice assumed control of Cyprus, including the city of Paphos, following the abdication of Catherine Cornaro, the last Lusignan queen. Under Venetian rule, Paphos underwent fortifications to defend against Ottoman threats. The Venetians left a significant architectural imprint on the city, including fortresses and walls. Their rule introduced new administrative practices that influenced the socio-political landscape of Paphos.

The Ottoman Empire conquered Cyprus in 1570, marking the beginning of several centuries of Ottoman rule over the island. Paphos, like other towns, was integrated into the empire's administrative structure. The Ottomans introduced new administrative and land ownership systems, which altered the social and economic fabric of Paphos. During Ottoman rule, Paphos experienced changes in its population and urban structure, shaping its development into the modern era.

During the Greek War of Independence starting in 1821, Cypriots, including those in Paphos, supported the Greek struggle against Ottoman rule. This period was marked by revolts and uprisings in Cyprus, inspired by the broader Greek revolution. Paphos was no exception, with its inhabitants participating in the movement. The events of 1821 played a crucial role in the development of Greek national identity among Cypriots and influenced future political efforts for enosis, or union with Greece.

Paphos came under Roman control when Aulus Gabinius, one of Julius Caesar's generals, annexed Cyprus in 58 BC. Paphos became part of the Roman province of Cilicia, but soon after it became a separate Roman administrative unit. Under Roman rule, the city prospered and became a major administrative center. The Romans constructed impressive buildings and infrastructure, which significantly influenced the architectural and cultural landscape of Paphos.

During the events of 1974, Paphos was affected by the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, which led to the division of the island. Although Paphos itself was not occupied, the invasion had significant socio-political impacts on the town and its inhabitants. Many Greek Cypriots from the north fled to the south, including Paphos, leading to changes in the demographic and economic landscape of the town. This event left a lasting impact that is still felt today.

In 1980, the archaeological sites of Paphos were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their outstanding ancient remains, including mosaics, theaters, villas, fortresses, and tombs. This designation recognized the cultural and historical significance of these sites, which reflect the rich history of Paphos from prehistoric times through the Middle Ages. The preservation of these sites is crucial for understanding the cultural heritage of Cyprus.

In 45 AD, Paul the Apostle and Barnabas visited Paphos during their first missionary journey. This visit is significant for the spread of Christianity in Cyprus. According to the Acts of the Apostles in the Bible, they converted the Roman proconsul Sergius Paulus to Christianity, which was a major event in the Christian history of the island. The conversion marked an early acceptance of the Christian faith by Roman officials.