Paphos Ayia Solomoni Church
Ayia Solomoni church was originally a Christian catacomb that was home to some 12th century frescoes. At the entrance on a rock above the Ayia Solomoni Church you will find what is believed to be a sacred tree. This centuries old terebinth tree has a legend of its own and it is believed that those who hang personal offerings on its branches will be cured of any illnesses or ailments they may have. These personal offerings are usually handkerchiefs and even today many locals and visitors do so in the hope of a cure.
The Ayia Solomoni church is located just 1 kilometer away from Kato Paphos port and is definitely worth a visit. The church was carved underground out of limestone rock and was originally used as a catacomb. Archaeologists who have investigated this site have stated that some of the original graves found at Ayia Solomoni church actually date backtothe Hellenistic period.
When you visit Ayia Solomoni Church there are approximately twenty steps that you will need to climb down to actually seethe church and here you will also find the remains of the old frescoes from the 12th century and some holy water.
If you are traveling to Paphos during winter or are spending Christmas here you will definitely want to visit Ayia Solomoni Church. Every year hundreds of visitors come to the caves near Ayia Solomoni church to watch the Christmas nativity scene that is reenacted from the 21st to the 24th December. The nativity features Mary, Joseph, the three Kings, a donkey, and the Christ child and is a great way to bring alive the traditions of Christmas. Real animals were used at one time but these have now been replaced with stuffed ones due to theft.
There are so many different churches and monasteries to visit during your stay in Paphos and each has their own unique story to tell and treasures to show. Paphos itself is full of history and is included in the official UNESCO’s list of cultural and natural treasures of the world heritage. Paphos is indeed a very beautiful part of the world and is steeped in history and wonder and a holiday here is one that you will remember forever.