Historical places in North Cyprus

Kyrenia Castle
The original castle was probably built by the Byzantines in 700A.D and dominates Kyrenia Harbour. Additions were made by the Lusignans and the Venetions. The Ottomans took control in 1570 and it remained in their hands for about 300 years. During the British Colonial administration it was used as a prison and was opened to visitors in 1963. At this time it was also used by the Greek National Guard as a military headquarters for seamen. Within the castle is the Shipwreck Museum which holds an ancient trading ship and its cargo. The ship sailed the Mediterranean during the times of Alfred the Great and sank just off the coast of Kyrenia. In the 13th and 14th centuries the harbour would have been guarded by chains which were lowered into the sea when enemy ships were sighted. The chain tower still sands in the middle of the harbour.

St Hilarian Castle
Probably built in the 11th century St Hilarian formed part of the Byzantine defence of the island along with Kantara and Buffavento castles. St Hilarian is named after a hermit monk of hermit who lived in a cave on the mountain and fled the Holy Land. There are accounts of Richard the Lionheart staying here on his way to the crusades and some say that Walt Disney used it as inspiration when designing his castles. There is a small café at the bottom for those who just wish to enjoy the views but the more energetic can walk (or climb) to the top and refreshments are now available half way up. If you travel along the main road from Kyrenia to Nicosia you will see signs for St Hilarian on your right.

Kantara Castle
Built by the Byzantines the castle is situated east of Kyrenia and 26 miles to the north of Famagusta. Kantara is in the most beautiful of mountain settings and has wonderful views, with extensive plains and sea on both sides. Like St Hilarian and Buffavento Kantara guarded an important pass across the mountains.

Buffaveneto Castle
Buffavento means “defier of the wind” and in this case is very appropriate as it is the highest of the three castles; the summit is 950 metres above sea level. As well as guarding it’s mountain pass Buffavento was used as a signalling point for the other two castles. The road to the castle can be found to the right, off the main pass between Bellapais and Nicosia, although the road is now tarmaced it is quite narrow but there are wonderful views. Although fairly steep the pathway up to the castle is well set out but take plenty of water. In the car park there is a memorial to victims of a plane crash.

Othello’s Tower and Citidel
This is a medieval fortress which guards the harbour and town of Famagusta. It takes it’s name from the Venetian Governor of 1506. Between 1500 and 1550 the Venetians increased fortification by building a wall around the castle. Inside the wall you will find the Great Hall with its vaulted roof supported by tall Gothic arches and in the courtyard of the citadel you can see some fascinating old cannons and cannon balls. From the embattlements there are excellent views of both modern and ancient harbours. Modern ships use the same entrance as those who came in 1300. By the entrance to the harbour, opposite the citadel you can see a small peninsula where the chain tower once stood.

Bellapais Abbey
(The Abbey of Peace) This magnificent Gothic site is a must for visitors. Situated north east of Girne and set on the side of a mountain the original construction took place between 1198 and 1205, with more added during the 13th and 14th centuries. Musical concerts are held in spring and summer, more information can be found at Bellapaisfestival.com. The village of Bellapais has the most wonderful views over the plains of Kyrenia, sit and relax under “The Tree of Idleness” and watch the world go by.

Salamis
Far back in 1100B.C. Salamis was the capitol of Cyprus but the original city was destroyed by an earthquake in 76A.D.  The ancient Roman site covers an area of 1 square mile along the coast near Famagusta. For over a thousand years it was covered in sand which helped preservation and prevent destruction. Now, greatly excavated it is most spectacular, the gymnasium, the theatre, the churches, so much to see and there is still a large area awaiting excavation.

Soli
Soli was one of the ten ancient city kingdoms and is located to the east of the island just outside the town of Lefke and was probably built in the sixth century B.C. Standing on the river Xero it had a good water supply, fertile soil and a protected harbour, near the copper deposits and with plenty of timber Soli played an important part in the history of the island. Remains include the theatre, which is now used for cultural activities and concerts, The Basilica or church and The Agora or shopping centre.

Vouni
Also near Lefke, Vouni palace was built in the 5th century B.C. but only stood for 70 years. It was the only palace in the Mediterranean which is known to have belonged to the Persians.  It was destroyed in 380B.C. by the people of Soli and never re-built. South of the palace are the remains of The Athena Temple which was built around the same time. From January to May there is an abundance of wild flowers including many orchids, which together with the sensational views make Vouni well worth a visit.

All Inclusive Holidays usually include tours to above places in Cyprus.