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Paphos dig unearths new tourist attraction

Excavations at the site of a 12th century Georgian monastery near Gialia village in Paphos, Cyprus are progressing well and could lead to another tourist attraction in the region, according to reports.

Excavations at the site are set to continue this year and, following their completion, the Monastery of Panagia Chrysogialiotissa will constitute an important archaeological and tourist location, the Cyprus Antiquities Department said.

The site is also seen as a positive symbol of friendship between the Mediterranean island and Georgia, reports the Cyprus Mail.

A number of elements of the monastery have been uncovered at the excavation recently, including the building's main church and two smaller chapels.

Twelve graves were also discovered, bearing Greek and Georgian inscriptions, as well as examples of the church's wall paintings, marble architecture, pottery and glass objects.

Paphos is a popular holiday location for travellers with an interest in the history and heritage of their destination.

It is the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, and one of its main tourist attractions is the Tombs of the Kings, an excavated ancient burial site that was thought to be the resting place of the remains of aristocrats and officials.

Article ID: 665, Posted: Wed, 20 Feb 2008 17:16:58 GMT