Tombs of the Kings - a view of a well dug in the ground
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Tombs of the Kings

4.4
·16k reviews·Chlorakas, Cyprus

Ancient necropolis with rock-cut tombs dating back to the 3rd century BCE, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Escape the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Tombs of the Kings - a view of a well dug in the ground

Tombs of the Kings

Best Time

Early morning

Escape the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ancient necropolis with rock-cut tombs dating back to the 3rd century BCE, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4.4
(16k reviews)

"Fascinating archaeological site with well-preserved tombs and underground chambers."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Uneven pavements & steps! Protect your ankles and explore comfortably.

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Especially in summer, stay hydrated. The heat can be intense.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Underground Tomb Chambers

Underground Tomb Chambers

Various tombs within the site

Descend into ancient rock-cut tombs, marveling at the well-preserved underground chambers and intricate details.

Hellenistic and Roman Architecture

Hellenistic and Roman Architecture

Throughout the necropolis

Admire the impressive examples of ancient burial architecture, showcasing a blend of Hellenistic and Roman influences.

Coastal Views

Coastal Views

Near the entrance and scattered viewpoints

Enjoy picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea from various points within this expansive archaeological site.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat and Crowds

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense heat and larger tour groups. The Tombs of the Kings can get very hot, especially in summer. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for a more comfortable experience.

Comfortable Footwear is Key

The pavements and steps within the archaeological site are uneven and can be treacherous. Prioritize sturdy, comfortable shoes to navigate the terrain safely and explore all the tombs without discomfort.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Escape the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Softer light, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Tomb of King Tutankhamun, Valley of the Kings, Luxor, Egypt #fypシ #fyp #explore #egypt #egyptian #travel #mummy
@calimanaaron
390.3K likes • 3.6M views

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Uneven pavements & steps! Protect your ankles and explore comfortably. Reddit

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Especially in summer, stay hydrated. The heat can be intense. TikTok

Do not go into the Pyramids of Giza ❌ Watch till the end to view my Egypt recommendations 🔆 Valley of Kings Prices : General ticket to see 3 tombs (this is what i did) : 200 EGP Other tombs (each has a separate price) * Tutankhamun's Tomb - 250 EGP  * Ramses VI - 100 EGP  * Set I, which was only opened in 2016 - 1000 EGP #egypt #tiktoktravel #traveltips #pyramidsofgiza #traveltok #solotravel #bl...
@thisisndamu
273.7K likes • 2.6M views
The Tombs of the Kings are considered a very important part of Cyprus’s cultural heritage. This ancient necropolis, which dates back to the 4th century BCE, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is recognized for its historical and archaeological significance. The site is one of the most impressive and well-preserved examples of Hellenistic and Roman burial architecture in Cyprus. The tombs are ca...
linguatico
59 likes • 1.8K views

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The site is large and spread out. Don't rush your exploration. Reddit

📸 Capture the History

Great photo opportunities, especially with the ancient architecture. Instagram

The Tombs of the Pontic Kings #ancienthistory #ancientturkey #ancientwisdom
mru.ink
173 likes • 4.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Uneven pavements & steps! Protect your ankles and explore comfortably. Reddit

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Especially in summer, stay hydrated. The heat can be intense. TikTok

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The site is large and spread out. Don't rush your exploration. Reddit

📸 Capture the History

Great photo opportunities, especially with the ancient architecture. Instagram

🐱 Friendly Felines

Cats roam the site; they're part of the charm! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(16k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Tombs of the Kings as a fascinating archaeological site with well-preserved ancient tombs and underground chambers, offering great historical value for an inexpensive entry fee. The coastal views are also a pleasant bonus. However, the uneven pavements and steps require caution, and the heat, especially in summer, can be intense.

"Overall a very beautiful archaeological site. Please be careful as pavements and steps are very very uneven ( I should know: I ended up at the ER!). Wear comfortable shoes and pay extra attention. Beautiful beach too!"

D. E.P.

"Very interesting (and inspiring) place.
We’ve visited it in late afternoon, so it was too hot anymore. We could walk slowly from one tomb to another.
To walk down to the tomb it’s strange experience 😉, but really worth to do it."

Magda Ł.

"Fascinating archaeological site with well-preserved tombs and underground chambers. Large and spread out, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially in summer. Entry is inexpensive and definitely worth it if you enjoy history and ancient ruins."

Sandra Zajkoska Risteski

What People Like

Fascinating archaeological site
Well-preserved tombs
Inexpensive entry fee

What People Dislike

Uneven pavements/steps
Intense heat

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Tombs of the Kings are located just north of Paphos harbor. You can easily reach it by car, taxi, or local bus. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with other Paphos attractions. Instagram

Yes, there is a parking area available for visitors. It's usually sufficient for most visitors, especially if you arrive earlier in the day. Instagram

It's a pleasant walk from the main tourist areas of Paphos, taking around 20-30 minutes. However, consider the heat, especially during midday. Instagram

Local buses frequently run from Paphos town center to the vicinity of the Tombs of the Kings, making it an accessible option for those without a car. Instagram

Due to the uneven terrain and steps, accessibility can be challenging. It's best to contact the site directly for the most up-to-date information on accessibility. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Tombs of the Kings is generally inexpensive, making it a great value for history enthusiasts. Prices can vary slightly, so it's always good to check the official website or inquire on-site. Reddit

The opening hours typically align with daylight hours, often from early morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check the current operating times before your visit, as they can change seasonally. Reddit

Advance booking is usually not required for the Tombs of the Kings. Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance upon arrival. Reddit

While not always advertised, inquire at the ticket office about potential combination tickets that might include other nearby archaeological sites in Paphos for added value. Reddit

While official guided tours might not always be readily available on-site, you can hire a local guide or use audio guides if provided. Some visitors find it helpful to research the tombs beforehand. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Explore at your own pace, descending into the tombs and taking in the ancient architecture. Allow at least 1-2 hours. TikTokReddit

Restroom facilities are usually available. There might be limited refreshment options on-site, so it's best to bring your own water and snacks. Reddit

Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the heat. Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the uneven terrain. A hat and sunscreen are also advisable. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed, but check for any specific restrictions within certain tombs. Tripods or flash photography might be prohibited in some areas. Instagram

The site is recognized for its exceptional universal value as a well-preserved example of Hellenistic and Roman burial practices and architecture. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entrances to the tombs, the underground chambers, and the panoramic views of the coastline offer excellent photographic opportunities. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at archaeological sites to preserve the environment and visitor experience. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light, ideal for capturing the textures of the rock-cut tombs and avoiding harsh shadows. Instagram

While general photography is allowed, be mindful of any signs indicating restrictions within certain tombs or areas. Avoid using flash if it might disturb other visitors or damage delicate surfaces. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the tombs and surrounding landscape. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions inside the tombs, but check for restrictions. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Tombs of the Kings can be an engaging experience for families, offering a tangible connection to ancient history. The underground chambers and the sheer scale of the tombs can spark children's imaginations. However, parents should be mindful of the uneven terrain and steps, ensuring children wear appropriate footwear and are supervised closely to prevent falls. Reddit Bringing plenty of water and snacks is also crucial, especially during warmer months, as the site can get very hot. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to make the exploration more comfortable for younger visitors. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts

For those with a deep interest in history and archaeology, the Tombs of the Kings is a must-visit. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique opportunity to study Hellenistic and Roman burial architecture firsthand. The well-preserved underground chambers, columns, and decorative elements provide invaluable insights into ancient funerary practices and societal structures. Instagram Take your time to explore each tomb, and consider researching the historical context beforehand to enhance your understanding and appreciation of this significant site. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Tombs of the Kings presents a wealth of photographic opportunities, from the dramatic entrances of the tombs to the intricate details of the rock-cut architecture. The soft light of early morning or late afternoon is ideal for capturing the textures and atmosphere of the site. Instagram Wide-angle lenses are recommended to capture the scale of the tombs and the surrounding landscape. Be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography inside the chambers to protect the ancient structures. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Ancient Burial Practices

The Tombs of the Kings in Paphos, Cyprus, is a remarkable archaeological site that offers a fascinating window into ancient burial customs. Despite its name, it's not the resting place of royalty but rather a necropolis for high-ranking officials and Ptolemaic aristocrats from the Hellenistic and Roman periods, dating back to the 3rd century BCE. The site features a series of impressive underground tombs carved directly into the soft sandstone cliffs. These aren't simple graves; they are elaborate structures with monumental staircases leading down to burial chambers, complete with columns, frescoes, and architectural elements that mimic grand houses. Instagram

Visitors can explore several of these tombs, each with its unique layout and features. The experience of descending into these ancient chambers is often described as surreal and awe-inspiring. While many of the tombs have been looted over centuries, the remaining architecture and the sheer scale of the undertaking provide a powerful testament to the wealth and status of those interred here. The site's designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site underscores its global significance and the importance of its preservation for future generations. Instagram

It's important to note that the term 'Tombs of the Kings' can sometimes be confused with other historical sites. For instance, in Egypt, the Valley of the Kings is famous for the tombs of pharaohs like Tutankhamun,TikTok+2 and the Saadian Tombs are in Marrakech. The Cyprus site, however, stands as a distinct and significant archaeological treasure in its own right, offering a different but equally compelling historical narrative. Instagram

Navigating the Site: Practicalities and Tips

Exploring the Tombs of the Kings requires some practical considerations to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. The site is quite spread out, and the terrain can be uneven, with many steps and pathways that are not perfectly paved. Therefore, wearing comfortable and sturdy walking shoes is paramount. Many visitors have noted the unevenness of the pavements and steps, with one reviewer even mentioning an ER visit due to a fall, highlighting the importance of caution. Reddit

The Mediterranean sun can be intense, especially during the summer months. It's highly recommended to bring plenty of water and to visit either in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat of the day. TikTok Light, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen are also advisable. While there are restrooms available, refreshment options on-site might be limited, so carrying your own water and snacks is a good idea. Reddit

Despite the potential challenges, the experience is widely considered worthwhile. The entry fee is generally inexpensive, offering excellent value for the historical insights gained. Reddit Many visitors appreciate the digital enhancements that explain details about the tombs, adding an educational layer to the exploration. And for animal lovers, the presence of friendly cats roaming the site is often noted as a charming aspect of the visit. Reddit

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