Saranta Kolones Castle

If you are in Pafos and in the mood to explore ancient ruins, then you have to find your way to the Byzantine castle of Saranta Kolones.

Saranta Kolones is located just north of the harbour of Pafos and is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Its name means “the 40 Columns”, referring to the many granite columns that were found on the place. You might find it amusing to count the existing columns scattered around the place to see if these are really forty.

Although there is not concrete evidence, the castle is believed to have been built at the end of the 7th century A.D. to protect the port and city of Nea Pafos from Arab attacks, and it was later remodelled by the Lusignans.

Destroyed by an earthquake in 1223, the castle was subsequently abandoned.

Highlights:

• Saranta Kolones is a Byzantine castle included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

• Its name means “40 columns” referring to the many granite columns found in the ruins.

Look Out For:

• The ruins have steep stairs with no supports.