Bufavento Castle is one of the most impressive historical buildings in Northern Cyprus. This mountain castle, built during the Byzantine period, served as an impregnable fortress and strategic observation post to protect the island from enemy attacks. Its name translates as “Protected from the winds,” which emphasizes its location at an altitude of more than 900 meters above sea level.
Historical significance and connections with other castles
Bufavento, one of the three mountain castles in the region (along with the castles of St. Hilarion and Kantara), played a key role in the defense of Cyprus. Thanks to its strategic location, it allowed vast areas of the island to be observed, and a smoke signal system ensured communication between the fortresses in the event of an attack.
The castle was built during the war between the Byzantines and the Arabs. Its first fortification was carried out by Philokalis, the Byzantine governor of the island. This is evidenced by an ancient inscription in one of the surviving churches of the castle.
Conquests and legends of Bufavento
The history of the castle is eventful. During the conquest of Cyprus by King Richard the Lionheart, the self-proclaimed ruler of the island, Isaac Doukas Komenos, hid his treasury and daughter here. The castle was considered impregnable, but the fate of the fortress was sealed by love: the ruler’s daughter, enchanted by the knight Guillaume de Lusignan, opened the castle gates. This event marked a turning point in the conquest of Cyprus.
In later times, the castle was used by the Lusignan dynasty as a prison for noble criminals. One of the most famous stories involves the escape of Baron Pierre de Montalif in 1384. He used homemade skis and shackles to perilously climb through the trees down the mountain. Although he was captured later, his escape became the stuff of legend.
Decline and architectural features
After the conquest of the island by the Venetians, the castle began to decline. However, the surviving towers, bastions and Byzantine chapel still make a strong impression on visitors.
The castle consists of two levels of defense. The lower level protected the entrance gate with a bastion. On the upper level there are the ruins of a chapel, as well as an observation deck offering panoramic views of the eastern part of Cyprus, including the Karpas Peninsula. The castle also preserves drinking water storage tanks built around a natural spring.
Castle legends
Every medieval castle holds its own unique secrets, and Bufavento is no exception. This place, imbued with mysteries and stories, inspires with its mystical atmosphere. Here are the two most famous legends associated with this amazing fortress.
Love that changed the fate of the fortress
According to the first legend, Bufavento Castle became a refuge for the daughter of the self-proclaimed ruler of Cyprus, Isaac Comnenus, when he tried to escape the revenge of the English king Richard the Lionheart. Richard, seeking to punish Comnenus for the capture of his sister and bride after their shipwreck off the island, sent his best knight, Guillaume, on a mission to capture the castle.
However, Bufavento, due to its strategic location, was practically impregnable. Guillaume quickly realized that it was impossible to take the fortress by force. But his natural charm and reputation as a ladies' man played a decisive role. He achieved a meeting with the daughter of Komnenos, who, captivated by his charm, fell in love with him at first sight. Thanks to this, the castle surrendered without firing a shot, and the fate of the island was sealed.
Miraculous healing at the castle springs
The second legend talks about the healing power of the surrounding area of Bufavento. Once upon a time, a noble lady suffering from leprosy came to the castle along with her dog, which was also affected by this disease. After some time, the woman noticed that her pet’s symptoms began to disappear. While watching the dog, she discovered that it regularly bathed in a small spring near the castle.
Following the example of the animal, the lady began to take baths in this source and was soon completely healed. Legend claims that later a monastery was built on the site of the miraculous spring. Although it is located in a closed military area, the memory of its healing power still lives on.
Nature and atmosphere of Bufavento
Silence, birdsong and bright sun create an atmosphere of peace. Many visitors spend time sitting on the ancient walls, enjoying the views and feeling a touch of history.
Bufavento is not just a historical building. This is a place where legends intertwine with reality, and nature and architecture create a unique harmony. When you visit this castle, you will feel the spirit of the past, breathing in the fresh mountain air and admiring the breathtaking views of the magnificent Cyprus.
You can only get to it by car, as public transport does not go there.
Route from Kyrenia (Girne):
1. Departure from the city: Follow the highway leading from Kyrenia towards Famagusta (Gazimagusa).
2. Turn to the castle: After about 20 km, at the top of the pass, you will see a yellow sign with the words “Buffavento”. For those traveling from Kyrenia, the turn will be to the right.
3. Mountain road: After the turn, a narrow gravel road begins, turning into a steep serpentine road. Drive carefully, especially in areas between rocks and cliffs. The length of this section is about 5–6 km. 4. Parking: The road will lead you to a parking lot where you can leave your car. From here the hike to the castle begins.
Walking ascent:
• Distance: From the parking lot to the castle you have to walk about 4 km along a concrete path leading up the hill.
• Travel time: The ascent takes approximately 30–40 minutes, depending on your physical fitness.
• Recommendations: Take enough drinking water with you, wear comfortable shoes and a hat. It is best to plan your visit in the morning or in cool weather to avoid overheating.
Important:
• Road conditions: The mountain road to the castle is narrow and gravel in places. High clearance vehicles or SUVs are recommended. Be prepared for oncoming traffic and use caution when turning.
• Weather conditions: In winter, rain is possible, making the road slippery. Temperatures can be high in summer, so it's important to consider weather conditions when planning your trip.
A visit to Bufavento Castle is an exciting journey that combines a road trip along picturesque mountain roads and a hike to the historical landmark, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Northern Cyprus region.
📍LOCATION: Buffavento Castle
