Following the example of Alexander the Great, the Ptolemean founded many new cities. In Cyprus the city of Marion (today’s Polis Chrysochous) was rebuilt at the beginning of the 3rd century B.C , after the complete destruction by Ptolemean A’ and was named Arsinoe in memory of Arsinoe B’ , sister and wife of Ptolemean Filadelphos.  Two other towns with the name of Arsinoe were built, the first is Salamina to the east of Cyprus and the second is in the Paphos district between New and Old Paphos. This city according to Stravona has a temple and a holly garden which haven’t been found. The temple was possibly dedicated to the Queen Arsinoe which was loved in Paphos as was Aphrodite and many kings and queens of the Ptolemean.

Marion Kings

The ancient kingdom of Marion, with its capital city (today’s Polis Chrysochous) was also in the Paphos district. As inscriptions and coins show, we know the names of only 5 Kings of Marion:

  1. Doxandros (5th century B.C)
  2. Sasmas ( 5th century B.C)
  3. Stasiikos A’ (5th century B.C)
  4. Timocharis (5th century B.C)
  5. Stasiikos B’ (5th century B.C)
Ancient City of Marion photos: 
Ancient City of Marion location map: 

Nearby Places and things to do (within 5 km radius)

Panayia Chryseleousa Church , Polemi

The Panagia Chryseleous Church is located in the village of Polemi in Paphos. The church as the name suggests, is dedicated to Panagia Chrys...

Stroumbi

Stroumbi is a village in the Paphos district which is located on the road between Paphos and Polis Chrysochous, about 20 ...

Psathi

Psathi is a village in the Paphos district in Cyprus. The village is built at an altitude of 445 metres above the surface of the sea. ...

Kamanterena Winery

The Kamanterena Winery is located in the Stroumbi village in the Paphos district. The winery has a wide variety of remarkable Cypriot wines....

Letymbou Village

Nestled in the scenic countryside of Cyprus, Letymbou Village exudes a serene and timeless ambiance that captures the essence of traditional...

Thrynia Village

In the folds of the Paphos hills lies Thrynia, a village that at first glance may seem small and unassuming, but on closer look reveals a de...

Pages