The beach of Aphrodite’s Rock is situated on the old road just before Pissouri. This is a pebbly beach area where, according to legend, Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of love and beauty, was born in the waters here known as Petro Tou Romiou, the Greek name. Petra tou Romiou is associated with the legendary frontier guard who kept the marauding Saracens at bay. Digenis Akritas, a great hunter, warrior, athlete and great lover was said to throw a large rock, to destroy the Saracen ships, and in turn protect his lady love.
It is, also, said that if one should swim around the prominent rock three times, naked and under a full moon they will find true love. Although, it is debatable whether this myth is true, the Rock and its setting provide a romantic location for lovers of all ages.
The story regarding Aphrodite has been told in so many ways. She had a husband, but she, also, had many lovers and gave birth to many children. Her son Eros was a gift to us, her divine son, also, know as Cupid. Her longest affair was with Ares, the God of War, whilst Adonis was her most famous mortal lover. The way that Aphrodite was born in the sea was said that she came down from the skies and then was born into a fully grown woman being naked. It occurred following a dispute between Uranus, father of all gods, and his son Chronos, who castrated him. It was said that the genitals were cut off and thrown into the stormy sea and it was carried for a long time on the waves. White foam surrounded the immortal flesh and in it grew a girl. First, she went to Cythera guided by the waves and then onto Cyprus. She walked on Cyprus soil and the men that saw her wanted her for their wife. It has, also, been said that she possessed a magic girdle that had the power to inspire love and beauty to anyone that wore it.
The beach area at Aphrodite’s Rock is one where many families and friends gather for picnics. People come from all over to photograph the rock. The waters of Aphrodite feel sacred and everyone wants to see this place for themselves. Some want to swim in the sea here taking a chance on whether these waters may give them something magical in their life.
Swimming in the sea does tend to be very rocky, so you do have to be careful if wanting to swim here. Some say, it has a therapeutic effect on any troubled soul. Young people climb the rock and dive into the sea from it thinking that something brilliant may come to them in their lives one day.
There is a nearby café where food and drinks are available. This is accessible by walking through a narrow walk way and going up some steps, where a car park is situated.
