Petra tou Romiou, Paphos (Aphrodite's birthplace)

Aphrodite (Cypri) is the Goddess of Cyprus. Greek mythology has it that she was born from the ocean foam near the coast of Paphos. There are two rocks here, with the name Petra tou Romiou. The translation from Greek is Rock of the Greek, or Aphrodite's Rock. They are believed to be Aphrodite's birthplace. Paphos  is a city in south-west Cyprus, about 128 km from the capital, Nicosia.

Public transport to Paphos and Aphrodite's rocks (and Cyprus in general) is restricted to buses, and that too infrequently. The population being low could be the reason. Tourists generally hire cars for a day or so. As of 2011, Mercedes Benz cabs are available for 50-60 Euros from Nicosia for a 100 km trip (up and down).

On the road to Petra tou Romeo-off Paphos

The drive from Nicosia takes about one and a half hours, if you take the Limassol route. The roads are nice and traffic, low and well- ordered. Speeds of 130 km and above are common. The road nudges the sea at many points and offers great opportunities for camera enthusiasts.

The Aphrodite rocks from a distance

A close up of the rocks where Aphrodite is believed to have taken birth

The cliff on the beach gives a breathtaking view

Another view of Aphrodite's rocks

A view from the beach near the Aphrodite rocks

After a visit to the beach and a swim, you can visit the souvenir shop nearby where you can have Aphrodite statuettes, photo cards, and other attractive items. There is also a restaurant in the same compound.