In the very center of the popular resort of Famagusta there is a unique old town hidden behind high fortress walls. This place is filled with history and mysteries, and its attractions attract travelers from all over the world. One of the most significant sites is the tomb of the Ottoman hero Kilis Beiji Jambulat, located in the bastion that bears his name. Every year this holy place is visited by thousands of pilgrims, as well as tourists from Turkey and other countries.
The legend of the Dzhambulat bastion
One of the most remarkable bastions of the Famagusta fortress wall is located in its eastern part. The Venetians, who owned the island in the 15th century, built this fortification, initially calling it Arsenal. Inside the structure there were military warehouses and food reserves.
The year 1571 became fateful for the bastion, when Ottoman troops began storming the city. Kilis Beiji Dzhambulat, whose name was subsequently immortalized, accomplished a feat that went down in history. Legend has it that in order to break through the city's defenses, the Turks planted an underground mine, knocking a hole in the wall. In response, the Venetians installed a huge wheel with sharp knives in the gap, capable of cutting anyone who came close. Dzhambulat, without hesitation, rushed on horseback into the center of the rotating mechanism, which allowed the Ottomans to neutralize the obstacle and continue the assault.
The remains of the hero were buried with honors near the walls of the bastion, and later transferred inside. Today, his grave is covered with a marble slab and surrounded by banners symbolizing his contribution to the victory. Next to him rest other warriors who gave their lives in that battle.
Next to the bastion grows an ancient fig tree, surrounded by legends. Local residents believe that women who taste its fruits are cured of infertility and are able to give birth to a son.
History in the Dzhambulat Museum
Inside the bastion there is a museum dedicated not only to Dzhambulat, but also to the history of Famagusta. Opened in the 1960s, it collects exhibits reflecting various eras of the city's development. Visitors can see artifacts from antiquity to the Ottoman period.
Among the exhibits, special attention is drawn to:
- Weapons, armor and household items of the Ottoman Empire era;
- Venetian ceramics and paintings reflecting the siege of Famagusta;
- Historical plan of the city, created by master engraver Stefano Gabellini at the beginning of the siege.
The legend of the explosion of an Ottoman ship has also been preserved. According to legend, a captured noble Venetian woman started a fire in the powder compartment of the flagship ship, which was heading to Istanbul. This resulted in a catastrophic explosion that destroyed several ships. The site of the tragedy is supposedly located in the area of the modern Palm Beach Hotel. According to researchers, the remains of the ship and treasure captured by the Ottomans still lie on the seabed.
The museum is open daily except Sundays from 9:00 to 18:00. The ticket costs only 2.5 euros, which makes visiting accessible to everyone.
Cultural relevance and appeal
The old town of Famagusta and the Dzhambulata bastion are not only historical monuments, but also places filled with the spirit of the era. Here myths, stories of exploits and self-sacrifice come to life. This is a corner of Cyprus where every stone preserves the memory of the past. A visit to these places leaves an unforgettable impression and allows you to touch the great history.
📍The location of the Bastion and the Dzhambulat Museum is HERE.
