CASTLES
Cyprus is home to a remarkable collection of castles and fortresses, each a testament to its strategic importance and rich medieval history. Constructed and fortified by successive powers, including the Byzantines, Crusaders, Venetians, and Ottomans, these strongholds stand as enduring symbols of the island's complex past.
Castles in Northern Cyprus
Kyrenia Castle
This magnificent fortress, majestically positioned at the entrance to the northern harbor, has a history dating back to the Byzantine era. It was significantly expanded by the Crusaders before being fortified further by the Venetians, who added its formidable walls. Today, the castle houses a captivating shipwreck museum, home to one of the oldest intact ships ever discovered, providing a unique window into ancient maritime life.
St. Hilarion Castle
Located in the Kyrenia mountain range, this castle is famed for its enchanting, fairy-tale appearance and spectacular views. Initially a monastery, it evolved into a royal residence and formidable stronghold during the Crusader era, with its different levels serving as garrisons, royal quarters, and chapels.
Kantara Castle
Situated on the easternmost peak of the Kyrenia mountain range, this fortress offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Mesarya Plains. It was built by the Byzantines to defend against Arab raids and formed a protective axis with St. Hilarion and Buffavento castles. The castle's well-preserved ruins, including its defensive walls and watchtowers, allow visitors to explore a strategic stronghold from a bygone era.
Buffavento Castle The highest of the three mountain fortresses in the Kyrenia range, Buffavento's name, meaning "defier of the winds," reflects its dramatic and exposed location. This challenging but rewarding hike offers unparalleled views and a glimpse into a key defensive outpost.
Buffavento Castle
This is the highest of the three mountain fortresses in the Kyrenia range (along with St. Hilarion and Kantara). Its name, meaning "defier of the winds," reflects its dramatic and exposed location. The castle is a challenging but rewarding hike and offers incredible views.
Othello's Castle
Located in Famagusta, this is a magnificent Venetian fortress central to both the island's history and Shakespearean lore. Originally a Lusignan castle, it was rebuilt by the Venetians, who strengthened its walls and towers to withstand Ottoman cannons. Its name is said to have been inspired by Shakespeare’s famous play, as the city was a Venetian port and the setting for the tragedy.
Castles in Southern Cyprus
Paphos Castle
Situated at the harbor's western edge, this castle was originally a Byzantine fortress. The structure seen today was rebuilt by the Ottomans and now serves as a popular tourist attraction and the site of an annual cultural festival.
Saranta Kolones ("Forty Columns") Castle
Near the Paphos harbor, these are the impressive ruins of a grand Byzantine fortress that was tragically destroyed by a 13th-century earthquake. The name comes from the numerous granite columns that were found on the site.
Limassol Castle
Located in the heart of the city, this castle is believed to be the site of the wedding of Richard the Lionheart. The current structure, dating to the 16th century, was built by the Ottomans and now houses the Cyprus Medieval Museum.
Larnaca Castle
This castle was built in the 12th century to defend the city. The present-day structure, reconstructed by the Ottomans, now houses a regional medieval museum, offering insight into the city's past.
Kolossi Castle
A compact but historically significant fortress near Limassol, Kolossi was once held by the Knights of the Order of St. John. Its architecture is a fine example of medieval military design, and it is famously linked to the production of Commandaria, the world's oldest-named wine.