Kyrenia Castle is one of the most impressive sights in Northern Cyprus and is definitely worth seeing. This fortress, towering over the ancient harbor, seems frozen in time, preserving the memory of its majestic past, secrets and events that changed the history of the region. The castle, which has repeatedly changed its appearance, owners and purpose, today is a place where history comes to life. For video game fans, it may look especially familiar: Kyrenia Fortress is one of the key locations in the game Assassin's Creed: Bloodlines . And now you have the opportunity to see her live!
Roots of centuries: the history of Kyrenia Castle
The history of the Kyrenia fortress dates back to the 7th century, during the Roman Empire. The first building was erected to protect the seaside settlement from sea raids of the Arabs. However, that fortress has not survived to this day. The current appearance of the castle is the result of numerous reconstructions, each of which left traces of its time on its walls.
• Age of Komnenos
In the 12th century, the fortress came under the control of Isaac Komnenos, known for his brutal management methods. After the ship carrying the relatives of Richard the Lionheart crashed off the coast of Cyprus, Komnenos took them prisoner. This became the reason for Richard's military campaign, which ended with the victory of the English king and the sale of Cyprus to the Knights Templar. Soon the island passed to Guy de Lusignan, the former king of Jerusalem.
• Golden Age of the Lusignans
In the 13th century, the Kyrenia fortress was fortified: massive towers, a royal residence and dungeons were built. The castle became a reliable stronghold for the royal family, which survived many attacks here.
• Venetian era
In 1489, the castle came under the control of the Venetian Republic, which led to another wave of reconstruction. Fortified walls, adapted for the use of firearms, and new bastions made the fortress almost impregnable.
• Ottoman period
In 1571, after the capture of Cyprus by the Ottoman Empire, the fortress surrendered without a fight. The Turks used it for military purposes, which allowed the castle to maintain its integrity.
• British era and modern times
In the 20th century, when Cyprus became a British colony, the castle began to serve as a prison and police barracks. After independence it was opened to tourists. Since 1974, Kyrenia Castle has been one of the main attractions of Northern Cyprus.
Monumental architecture of the Kyrenia fortress
Kyrenia Castle is an example of medieval military architecture. Its massive walls and rectangular shape are reminiscent of a time when the main purpose of construction was defense. Tall towers, an impressive moat (once filled with water) and embrasures create a feeling of absolute security.
Inside the castle you will not only get acquainted with its architecture, but also many exhibitions that help you understand how the fortress served different eras.
Kyrenia Castle today: museums and exhibitions
Today the castle attracts tourists with its unique museums and exhibitions:
1. Torture Museum
Scenes from medieval history are recreated in the dungeons of the fortress. Here you will see realistic mannequins and instruments used during torture. The atmosphere of this place makes your heart skip a beat.
2. Shipwreck Museum
This museum houses the remains of a trading ship from the Hellenistic period, which is more than 2.5 thousand years old. Finds recovered from the seabed include amphorae, gear and other artifacts.
3. Byzantine Chapel of St. George
This is a small but majestic chapel preserved within the walls of the fortress.
4. Military bastion
Exhibits include weapons and armor illustrating the development of warfare over the centuries.
5. Royal rooms of the Lusignans
A unique opportunity to touch the history of the kings who once lived here.
Walk around Kyrenia Castle
A visit to the Kyrenia Fortress is not just an excursion, but a real journey through time. On the castle grounds you will find:
• Exhibitions of archaeological finds;
• Tomb of Sadysh Pasha - Ottoman ruler;
• Panoramic views from the bastions, offering breathtaking views of the harbor and sea.
There is a cafe in the courtyard where you can take a break after exploring. Tourists can also take impressive photographs to remember this place forever.
How to get to Kyrenia Castle?
• On foot : If you arrived in Kyrenia by bus, simply walk down to the harbor, facing the sea.
• By car : There is paid parking at the eastern wall of the castle.
View on map HERE.
Why is it worth visiting Kyrenia Castle?
Kyrenia Castle is not only a place of power, but also a portal to the past. Its walls are imbued with the spirit of history, and museums allow you to touch eras long gone. This is a unique opportunity to explore a place where legends, reality and myths are intertwined. And, of course, stunning views of the sea and the harbor will make your trip truly unforgettable.
Visit Kyrenia Castle - a place that can inspire, surprise and leave the most vivid impressions in your memory.
