Paphos Castle is a fortification located at the entrance to the port. Due to its historical significance, it has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Currently, the fort is open to the public and is used to organize various types of cultural events.
In the castle in Paphos, among others, the annual September Aphrodite Festival takes place, during which an opera prepared by the world's greatest artists is presented. The castle is often used as a backdrop for the opera's ongoing action.
The history of the fort dates back to the Byzantine period. In the 13th century, the castle was rebuilt by the French army, and in the second half of the 16th century was destroyed during the battles between the Venetian and Turkish forces. After capturing the island, the Turks rebuilt and modernized the fortress. Later, the fort also served as a prison and then as a warehouse. Finally, it was declared a monument in 1935.