Despite the name, no kings were buried here. The tombs held senior officials and aristocrats of Ptolemaic Paphos, and their scale is what earned the title.
Several tombs are cut as underground courtyards ringed by doric columns, imitating the houses of the living. The site runs along the coast, so the sea is visible from most of it.
Why visit
- • Unusual peristyle tombs cut directly into bedrock
- • Quiet, atmospheric and rarely crowded early in the day
- • Right on the coastal path from Kato Paphos
Things to do here
- Descend into Tomb 3 and Tomb 4
- Walk the coastal edge of the site
- Continue along the seafront path afterwards
Best time to visit
Early morning, or late afternoon when the light drops into the tomb courtyards.
Getting there
A short drive or a 25 minute coastal walk north from Paphos harbour. Parking is available at the entrance.
Local tips
- • Steps are steep and unrailed in places
- • Very little shade — bring water
- • Allow extra time for photography at golden hour