Rating: 7,9/10 (494 votes) The Royal Tombs are one of the main attractions of Paphos and are located about two kilometers from it. These underground structures were carved into the rocks of Fabrika Hill. Royal, or royal, tombs are called because of the majestic and magnificent appearance, and not because kings are buried here. Mostly, dignitaries of Paphos and representatives of the aristocracy were buried in the tombs. Burials were carried out from the Hellenistic era and almost until the end of the domination of the Roman Empire (IV century BC - III century AD). Some tombs are similar to underground palaces, but there are also poor, modest catacombs. In ancient times, people did not skimp on beautiful decoration for tombs and decorated them with columns, frescoes, and so on. Many tombs look like human dwellings. One of the customs of ancient people was to leave in the tomb any household items for the future afterlife, of which amphorae are well preserved. Scientists use these items to determine the age of the tomb. The tombs of the kings were discovered a little more than 100 years ago and were repeatedly plundered. There have also been several attempts at archaeological excavations, but they were carried out without a proper scientific base. Only in 1977 did Cypriot scientists seriously realize the scientific value of the royal tombs complex. During the excavations, new tombs were discovered, and all the objects found were placed in the archaeological museum. Archaeological excavations are still underway in the tombs. We also recommend reading Catholic Cathedral of St. Michael in China, Qingdao resort Topic: Royal Tombs (Tombs of the Kings) in Cyprus, Paphos resort. |