Agia Solomoni Catacombs

The Agia Solomoni Catacombs are a mystical underground site located in the heart of ancient Paphos on sunny Cyprus. This location is a unique symbiosis of natural landscape and human labor: the cave complex was partially carved into the limestone Fabrica Hill as far back as antiquity.

This early Christian monument consists of an open courtyard and five chambers, arranged in a plan that resembles a Christian cross. Visitors are drawn here not only by the unusual architecture but also by the site's deep spiritual significance: it houses an underground church that preserves traces of the Crusaders and fragments of 13th-century Byzantine paintings.

One of the most recognizable features of the complex is the sacred tree growing right at the entrance, its branches traditionally adorned with colorful strips of cloth. The Agia Solomoni Catacombs are considered one of the island's most important Christian shrines, offering guests a rare opportunity to touch the history of the first centuries AD in the quiet, cool atmosphere of the underground halls.

When planning a visit to the Agia Solomoni Catacombs, we recommend checking the current opening hours and access rules in advance. Although this site is traditionally open to pilgrims and tourists, the schedule may vary depending on church holidays or the season.

For the latest information, it is worth stopping by the Paphos Tourist Information Center or checking the official Visit Cyprus tourism portal. This will help you plan your visit as comfortably as possible and avoid any potential restrictions.

Visiting the Agia Solomoni Catacombs is a true journey back in time. After descending a steep stone staircase, you will find yourself in cool underground chambers where you can see 12th-13th century frescoes and fragments of ancient paintings. Exploring the narrow passages and small cave chapels allows you to feel the atmosphere where the island's early Christians once found refuge.

Be sure to find the small grotto in the western part of the complex containing a holy spring. The water from this underground source is believed to have healing properties. At the entrance to the catacombs, travelers often linger by the massive tree: according to local custom, if you tie a piece of cloth to its branch and make a wish for healing, it will certainly come true.

After your walk through the underground, it is worth climbing to the top of Fabrica Hill. From here, you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Paphos, including the harbor and the famous lighthouse, making it the perfect spot to end your tour and take memorable photos.

Finding the Agia Solomoni Catacombs is easy: they are located in the Kato Paphos district on the busy Apostolou Pavlou Avenue (Apostolou Pavlou Ave 100). From the center of the Old Town, you can reach the site by car or taxi in just 10 minutes, following signs for Fabrica Hill.

For those who prefer public transport, city buses heading towards the harbor are a great option—get off at the "Apostolou Pavlou" stop. If you are staying in the coastal part of the city, the landmark is easily accessible on foot, allowing you to enjoy the sea air and views of the ancient Roman city walls along the way.

The history of this unique site dates back to antiquity, specifically the 4th century BC. Initially, the caves in the limestone Fabrica Hill began as quarries, providing building materials for the houses and temples of ancient Paphos. Later, these underground halls were used by city residents as tombs.

The sanctuary received its current name from the legend of Saint Solomoni, who fled here in the 2nd century AD to escape persecution by the Syrian King Antiochus. It is believed that the saint was martyred in these catacombs following her seven sons. Since then, the catacombs have become a place of pilgrimage, and one of the grottoes, known as the "Cave of the Seven Sleepers", is still revered as the resting place of her relics.

During the Middle Ages, the Agia Solomoni Catacombs caught the attention of the Crusaders traveling through Cyprus to Jerusalem. They not only used the caves as a refuge but also decorated the walls with frescoes. Remarkably, fragments of these paintings and graffiti left by warriors in the 13th century have survived to this day, turning the site into a living open-air history book.

For a detailed exploration of the Agia Solomoni Catacombs and its underground grottoes, travelers typically need about 1 to 1.5 hours. This is enough time to descend into the caves, examine the ancient inscriptions, and visit the holy spring.

If you plan to combine this visit with a walk through the neighboring archaeological park or a visit to nearby Byzantine churches, we recommend setting aside half a day (about 3–4 hours). This way, you can enjoy the atmosphere of the ancient city and take beautiful photographs without rushing.

The landmark is open to visitors daily, except for Sundays. According to official information, the Agia Solomoni Catacombs are open from Monday to Saturday, from 08:00 to 16:00. Sunday is a day off.

Please note that the schedule may change slightly depending on the time of year. Before visiting on public holidays, it is recommended to check the information boards at the entrance or ask local guides for details to ensure your visit goes as planned.

Exploring the surroundings of Fabrica Hill will allow you to dive deeper into the rich heritage of Paphos. Just a few minutes' walk away is the famous Saint Paul's Pillar, surrounded by the ruins of ancient Byzantine basilicas that preserve the memory of the first centuries of Christianity on the island.

Lovers of picturesque views and seaside walks should head to the historic Paphos Lighthouse, which towers over the archaeological park. If you want to return to modern times after your cultural program, the Kings Avenue Mall is located nearby, where you can relax and enjoy some shopping.