In the heart of coastal Paphos, beside the majestic medieval castle, stands the bronze sculpture “Sol Alter” atop a rock caressed by the waves of the Mediterranean Sea. This figure of a young woman, gazing thoughtfully toward the island’s mythical origins, has become one of the city’s iconic landmarks. In this article, we reveal the sculpture’s creation story, the artist’s concept, cultural allusions, and practical advice for visitors.
Contents
Creation History and Location
Artist and Installation Date
“Sol Alter” was created by Cypriot sculptor Yiota Ioannidou. The official unveiling took place on January 12, 2018, when the bronze figure took its place along the Paphos sea promenade.
Site Description
The sculpture sits on a massive rock along the old harbor, just steps from Paphos Castle. The coastal walking path circles the shoreline, offering stunning vistas of the sea and neighboring cliffs.
The Artist and Creative Concept
Yiota Ioannidou’s Background
Yiota Ioannidou graduated from the Athens School of Fine Arts. Her works adorn streets and squares across Cyprus, blending classical bronze techniques with modern forms and profound symbolism.
Concept of “Sol Alter”
The name “Sol Alter” translates to “Second Sun”—a metaphor for the eternal cycle of light and the passage of time. The woman, as if merged with the rock itself, symbolizes a solid link between the present day and Cyprus’s ancient legends, where the goddess of love, Aphrodite, reigned supreme.
Mythological and Cultural References
Gaze Toward Petra tou Romiou
By design, the sculpture looks in the direction of the legendary Petra tou Romiou—the very shore where, according to myth, Aphrodite emerged from the sea. This reference enhances the sense of a sacred, timeless landscape.
Homage to the Goddess of Love
With her relaxed yet dignified pose, the sculpture embodies ideals of beauty, rebirth, and feminine power that echo the heritage of ancient Greek culture.
Practical Tips for Visitors
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Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset. The soft light accentuates the bronze relief and creates a magical atmosphere.
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How to Get There: A 10–15 minute walk from Paphos’s main square along the sea promenade leads you to Paphos Castle and the sculpture.
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Photography: For a striking shot, include both the statue and the backdrop of the sea with the castle silhouette.
“Sol Alter” in the Context of Yiota Ioannidou’s Work
Beyond “Sol Alter,” Ioannidou’s portfolio includes “The Little Fisherman” and other pieces showcased during Cyprus’s 2017 tenure as European Capital of Culture. These projects demonstrate her talent for transforming everyday scenes into monumental, light-filled forms.
The “Sol Alter” sculpture offers a unique blend of seaside scenery, historic atmosphere, and deep symbolism. This artwork not only beautifies the Paphos waterfront but also invites reflection on the passage of time, cultural heritage, and humanity’s enduring pursuit of beauty. When visiting Cyprus, be sure to experience Paphos’s “Second Sun”—an image you won’t soon forget.
