Aphrodite’s Rock, also known as Petra tou Romiou, is located in the coastal city of Paphos, Cyprus, 25 kilometers from the city center. It is a sea stack formed by the erosion of seawater, believed to be the birthplace of the love and beauty goddess Aphrodite (Venus), making it a world-renowned tourist destination.

The coastline of Paphos is characterized by rolling waves, steep cliffs, and a group of towering rock formations, some resembling stalagmites jutting out of the sea, some like giant mushrooms standing in the water, with the largest rock reaching about 30 meters in height. This group of rocks is collectively known as “Romeo,” which in Greek means “rock.” According to legend, the love goddess Aphrodite (Venus) was born in the foam of the sea near here, hence the name “Aphrodite’s Rock.”

Perhaps due to the belief that Aphrodite was born from the sea foam, a local tradition has emerged: childless couples pray to the love goddess and their wishes may be granted. This tradition attracts childless couples from all over the world who come to the rock formations to silently pray, hoping to fulfill their desire for a child of their own.

Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock)

Reasons to visit: Cyprus’s most famous rock formation

Continent: Asia

Country/Region: Cyprus

Province/State: Paphos District

City: Paphos