Cyprus is known as the playground of the gods and there are quite a few legends associated with the many swim spots found across the island.
The beautiful island of Cyprus is known as the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, beauty and fertility. Legend has it that she was born in the foamy sea and was blown ashore on a huge seashell by Zephyrus, the personification of the west wind. The myth is famously depicted in Botticelli’s Birth of Venus (on display in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence) and even on a much older mural at Pompeii.
Legend has it if you swim around it three times, true love will be yours.
The back story is somewhat less romantic. Gaia (Mother Earth) asked one of her sons, Cronus to mutilate his father, Uranus. So he cut of his father’s testicles and lower body and flung them in the sea. The water began bubbling (the Greek word ‘aphros’ means ‘foam’) and the most beautiful maiden appeared at the surface. A large imposing rock marks the spot on a beautiful beach on the southeast coast of the island and legend has it if you swim around it three times, true love will be yours.
Located on a lovely stretch of beach between Limassol and Pahos, it’s a magical spot for a dip and a stunning place to watch the sunset. And maybe find true love, if you haven’t already. You might also watch to hunt out the Bath of Aphrodite on the west coast of the island, which is said to have been her favourite bathing spot. It’s also where she met her lover, Adonis. He was a hunter who stopped for a drink at the pool and fell instantly in love with the goddess.
The pool is said to be a source of both virility and eternal youth.
Another great swim spot to visit is the Adonis Baths and waterfalls about 10km north of Paphos. It’s said to be the spot where Adonis, who was the Greek God of Beauty looked after his horses and hunted in the surrounding woods. According to local folk law, Adonis and Aphrodite had several of their children here and the people of Paphos are said to be their descendants. A stunning waterfall cascades into the main pool, which is a stunning shade of emerald, green. The pool is said to be a source of both virility and eternal youth.
Paths will take you to the top of the waterfall and past several statues of Greek gods, including one of Aphrodite and Adonis (who boasts a truly impressive sized member). A sign reads, ‘Ladies infertile who wish to become pregnant touch Adonis’s appendage and have many children thereafter.’ I’ve no idea what happens if a man touches the said appendage, but I will let you know of any developments…
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