Paphos, Cyprus Traditions. Aphrodite birthplace, Paphos, Cyprus. A place where the beauty of nature and of the environment meets the history and the nicest traditions of the Greek world from the early beginning of Mythology (History) continuing into our everyday lives.

The various religious ceremonies that took place in Paphos Aphrodite’s honour were carried out every spring.  People arrived at the Holy Gardens of Aphrodite, some distance from the temple, waiting for the dawn and the appearance of the day-star (Venus) in the sky.  As soon as the star arrived, the procession started with an accompaniment of dances and music (wind and percussion instruments). Believers, holding alight torches (big candles) and offerings were heading (walking) to the temple, ready to carry out the ceremonies.

According to original sources, inside the Paphos Aphrodite Temple there was a group of priests with the highest position being held by the Archpriest. The participation of the Archpriest was very important for the ceremonies. He was carrying out, together with the female Archpriestess, the ceremony – mystery of the Holy Marriage.  The participation of the Archpriest in the mystery, gave to him the right to remain Archpriest of Aphrodite and the King.  All the priests of Paphian Aphrodite were descended from the family of Kiniras and the legendary Paphos King.  In the Paphos Temple of Aphrodite could also be found augurs (soothsayers) predicting the future during the ceremonies.  It is possible that the augurs were from the family of Tamiras who was the first augur of Aphrodite.