House of Theseus

Located in the heart of the  Paphos Archaeological Park in ancient Paphos , the House of Theseus stands as an architectural testament to the city's rich Roman roots. Dedicated to the mythical hero, Theseus, this house showcases an array of mosaics that tell tales of valor and heroism. 

Spread across vast grounds, the house provides insights into Roman architectural styles and domestic life. Its mosaics, notably the one depicting Theseus fighting the Minotaur, are a testament to the artistic brilliance of its creators.

It was built during the second half of the 2^nd century A.D on the ancient ruins of older Hellenistic and Roman period buildings. The house was inhabited until the 7^th century A.D and is considered to have been the house of a Roman proconsul, as it included over 100 rooms. Many rooms as well as the three galleries around the central patio include mosaic floors which belong to three different phases.

The most ancient mosaic is dated to the end of the 3^rd century and displays Theseus fighting with the Minotaur in the labyrinth. This mosaic shows the alterations made to it possibly due to the earthquakes during the middle of the 4^th century. At the end of the 4^th century a mosaic floor presents Poseidon and Amfiiti.

Lastly, at the end of the 5^th century a new mosaic was added to the main room of the mansion which shows the first bath of the new-born Achilles.