The Castles of Kyrenia
The beautiful town of Kyrenia is popular amongst tourists on holidays in Northern Cyprus. The region is known not only for its beauty as a holiday destination, but also for its rich history. Kyrenia has a number of unique and beautiful castles, dating back centuries and housing some fascinating historical artefacts.
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Kyrenia Castle
This fascinating castle is definitely worthy of a visit whilst on holiday in Northern Cyprus. Kyrenia Castle dates back to the 7th century, when it is thought to have been built by the Byzantines. However, under the subsequent Roman rule, the site was built into a city, and it was later rebuilt into Girne Castle, which still stands today. This castle was built by the Venetians in the 16th century, housing a 12th century chapel, dating back to the Romans.
The castle lies at the east end of Kyrenia's old harbour, surrounded by a moat which was filled with water before the 14th century. Kyrenia is a beautiful and historical city to visit whilst on Northern Cyprus holidays, and the castle makes for hours of historical sightseeing. Within the castle walls you will also find the Shipwreck Museum, where you can browse through the remains of a 4th century Greek merchant ship. If you are brave enough to venture into the castle's depths, you can explore the dungeons and weapon rooms housed below.
Buffavento Castle
Whilst in Kyrenia on a Northern Cyprus holiday, you will have the opportunity to view the Buffavento Castle. Situated in the middle of the Kyrenia mountain range, this castle dates back to the 11th century, believed to have been built by the Byzantines, and then improved by the 14th century Lusignans. This castle forms part of an important trio, along with its neighbouring castles, St Hilarion and Kantara.
St Hilarion Castle
If you are seeking some peace and tranquillity on your holiday in Northern Cyprus, visiting St Hilarion Castle will do just the trick. Originally established as a monastery, there is a distinctly spiritual atmosphere to this castle, and the combination of the spiritual ambience and the beautiful scenic setting allow for a tranquil experience. It was then turned into a castle by the Byzantines and renovated by the Lisignans. Sadly, parts of the castle were lost under Venetian rule during the 15th century, but what still remains is fascinating.
Kantara Castle
The third in the trio of castles is Kantara Castle. Also situated in the Kyrenia Mountains, you can visit this castle whilst hiking on your Northern Cyprus holiday. Dating back to the 10th century, this castle was first established as a lookout point over the Karpass Peninsula and Mesaoria Plain. When Richard I invaded Cyprus in 1179, the ruler of the Byzantines, Isaac Comnenus, used the castle as his place of refuge during the invasion.
A later fascinating function of the castle was its use as a hunting lodge. The nobility could use the castle to hunt mountain goats with trained leopards. Situated in this idyllic setting, you can enjoy the views as you wander these old hunting grounds whilst on holiday in Northern Cyprus.
