Paphos Gate, Nicosia

Paphos Gate is one of the three original entrances in the 16th-century Venetian walls that still encircle the old city of Nicosia. Built by the Venetians to protect the city from invasion, the gate occupies a strategic position on the western side of the fortifications, facing the direction of Paphos-the ancient city to which the road outside the gate once led. This gave the gate its modern name, though it was also historically known as the Gate of San Domenico, named after the nearby Dominican abbey and the earlier Frankish “Porta di San Domenico” that it replaced.

Architecturally, the gate is modest but characteristic of the Venetian military style: a simple opening cut into the thick defensive walls, covered with a barrel vault and originally flanked by a small guardhouse for monitoring access. During the British occupation of Cyprus in 1878, part of the walls between Paphos Gate and the nearby Roccas Bastion was demolished to create a wider opening, improving access while altering the original fortifications.

Above the gate today stands the Paphos Gate Police Station, overlooking a structure that has seen centuries of conflict, change, and urban evolution. Once a key point of defense during sieges, the gate now welcomes visitors rather than repels enemies. Informational plaques offer historical context, while the surrounding area-now home to cafes, shops, and cultural activity-blends the charm of the past with the vibrancy of the present.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, Paphos Gate offers a tangible link to the layered past of Nicosia and Cyprus. It’s not just an architectural remnant-it’s a starting point for understanding the city’s resilience, transitions, and enduring legacy.