The Aphrodite Baths in Akamas National Park is associated with the legends that fill the history of this Park. As you know, Aphrodite was born in Cyprus, emerging from the sea foam near the rocks of Petra Tou Romiou (South of Paphos). She also frequently visited Akamas Park.
The Bath of Aphrodite is also called the Grotto of Aphrodite. It is an oasis with dense vegetation near the resort village of Neo Chorio. This oasis has a small Botanical garden, which you can see walking along the paths. There is also a Fountain of Love. The Aphrodite Baths can be reached by car from Neo Chorio.
The Baths of Aphrodite is a small natural bath, where pure water flows from springs on stones. The grotto is wrapped in vines, which add even more beauty to this place. Water oozes out of the rocks, and the grotto feels like a fog. The fact is that at any time of the year, the water has a temperature of 37 degrees. This is a very rare phenomenon, because usually the water in the springs is very cold, but here it is warm. Local residents claim that this spring oozes out of the stone for many hundreds of years.
Around this spring formed an oasis with incredibly rough vegetation for these places. There are even huge plane trees growing here. Thus, the vegetation completely hid the grotto from prying eyes. This was used by the Goddess of Love and Beauty Aphrodite. According to legend, Aphrodite met in this place with her lover, the young Adonis.
In ancient Greek myths, Adonis was considered the most beautiful young man on earth. He was the son of the king of Cyprus Kinir and his daughter Myrra. Since the gods did not accepted this love affair, Myrra died, and Adonis was given to the Underworld goddess Persephone to raise. However, Aphrodite also fell in love with Adonis and persuaded the gods to let him go to earth. Adonis was a shepherd and hunter. He lived on Akamas and met Aphrodite in the grotto.
It is believed that bathing in the waters of this source, the Goddess of Beauty could remain forever young. Ordinary people also decided to take advantage. There was a rumor among the people that those who bathe in the waters of the Bath of Aphrodite will prolong their youth. Unfortunately, the regional authorities did not support this idea, and nowadays bathing in the Aphrodite Grotto is strictly prohibited.
