According to legend, Aphrodite mythological goddess of love and beauty, rose from the waves in this strikingly beautiful spot on the south east coast of Cyprus.
The Baths of Aphrodite at Polis and the 'Fontana Amorosa' – Fountain of Love – also echo her apparent penchant for the island.
The legend
The Greek name, Petra tou Romiou "The Rock of the Greek" is associated with the legendary frontier-guard of Byzantine times Digenis Akritas who kept the marauding Saracens at bay with amazing strength. It is said that he heaved this large rock into the sea destroying the enemy's ship.
Nearby at Kouklia lie the remains of the Goddess Aphrodite's earliest Sanctuary and a museum.
Petra tou Romiou is one of those 'must see' things in Cyprus. Take a look at any guide to Cyprus, and it won't be long before you get to pictures of this famous place.
Is it worth a visit?
So is it worth a visit? Yes – because it is strikingly beautiful – especially from the road that runs long the top of the cliffs here. At sunset and sunrise it's especially beautiful.
Does it cut it as a beach?
Does it cut it as a beach? Well no, frankly, for us it doesn't. It's mainly pebbly as opposed to sandy. So if you're after toasting yourself in the sun, this probably isn't the place for you. But if you want to splash in an incredibly blue sea or just stroll in the sunshine, Petra tou Romiou is not to be missed.
For lovers
Petra tou Romiou's strong associations with the legend of Aphrodite, Goddess of Love mean it's popular to state your love for your loved one using the pebbles on the beach. Find a space, and you can too!
Getting there
Petra tou Romiou is signed both off the Limassol to Paphos Highway and the old coast road from Paphos to Lemessos, near the Aphrodite Hills golf club. It's got its own car park, cafe and gift shop – and then a smelly tunnel under the road down onto the beach.
See more pictures of Petra tou Romiou and also the nearby historical village of Kouklia.
What do you think?
Have you been there? What do you think?
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