KYRENIA
Kyrenia is a picturesque city located on the northern coast of Cyprus, known for its rich history, natural beauty, and opportunities. The city has a well-preserved medieval castle and harbor that date back to the Byzantine period, which are major tourist attractions. Kyrenia also boasts a charming old town with traditional architecture, narrow streets, and a variety of shops, restaurants and cafes. The city is surrounded by the beautiful Kyrenia mountain range and the Mediterranean sea, making it a popular spot for hiking, swimming, sailing and other outdoor activities. Kyrenia is also a popular spot for property investment and retirement, with a growing expat community. With its rich history, opportunities and natural beauty, Kyrenia is a must-see destination for anyone visiting or considering to live in Cyprus.
Blue Mansion
Located on the Girne-Guzelyurt road and close to the Middle East Technical University, Mavi Köşk fascinates those who see it with its great story, the magnificence of all the rooms and its architecture. His story is just as impressive. Mavi Köşk is owned by Pablo Pavilides, of Greek origin, a lawyer and the biggest arms dealer in the Middle East. Pavilides had this mansion specially built. The house he built in order to carry out arms smuggling more easily sees every point of the valley; but it is not visible at all from below. Mavi Köşk, which is quite luxurious according to the conditions of the time, still preserves its originality with all the furniture inside. Each part of the mansion, which has many rooms, is divided according to its intended use. The most striking rooms are; These are the rooms separated by blue, red and yellow colors. Pavilides used to conduct mafia negotiations in the red room. While the blue room is used as a guest room; The yellow room is reserved for the guest children. As much as there are important items in the mansion; The tables are also very interesting. At the same time, the curtains of the house are soundproofed.
Kyrenia Castle
Kyrenia Castle is a medieval fortress located in the port town of Kyrenia in Northern Cyprus. It is believed to have been built by the Byzantines in the 7th century AD, and later occupied by the Lusignans, the Venetians, and the Ottomans. The castle offers a panoramic view of the town and the Mediterranean sea and is a popular tourist attraction.
The Shipwreck Museum, also known as the Kyrenia Ship Museum, is a unique underwater archaeological museum that displays the remains of a ship that sunk in the sea off the coast of Kyrenia in ancient times. The ship is believed to have been a trading vessel and is thought to date back to the 4th century BC. The ship was lifted from the sea bed in the 1980s and is now on display in a specially-built hall within the castle. The exhibit includes various items that were found on the ship, including pottery, glassware, and metal tools.
St. Hilarion Castle
St. Hilarion Castle is a medieval castle located in the Kyrenia mountain range in northern Cyprus. The castle is believed to have been built by the Byzantines in the 10th century, and later occupied by the Lusignans and the Venetians. It is named after a monk who lived in a cave nearby in the 4th century AD. The castle offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area and is a popular tourist attraction. It is also a UNESCO tentative world heritage site and is an important cultural and historical monument of Cyprus. Visitors can explore the castle’s many towers, halls and courtyards, and admire the impressive architecture and the beautiful views of the coast and the mountain. It is also a great spot for hiking, as it offers several trails for different difficulty levels.
Buffavento Castle
Buffavento Castle is a medieval fortress located in the Kyrenia mountain range in northern Cyprus. It is one of the three castles that make up the “Kyrenia Castle complex” along with St. Hilarion and Kantara castles. The name Buffavento means “that defies the wind” in Italian, and it is situated on a high peak of the mountain range, providing a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The castle is believed to have been built by the Byzantines in the 10th century and later occupied by the Lusignans and the Venetians. Visitors can explore the castle’s many towers, halls, and courtyards, and admire the impressive architecture and the beautiful views of the coast and the mountain. The castle is also a great spot for hiking, as it offers several trails for different difficulty levels. Buffavento Castle is an important cultural and historical monument of Cyprus and is a UNESCO tentative world heritage site. It is a must-see destination for anyone interested in medieval fortifications, history, and beautiful views.
St. Omer Tomb and Mosque
One of the most frequently visited religious sites in Cyprus is the Hazreti Ömer Tomb four kilometers East of Kyrenia on the coast of Catalköy. The humble memorial sits on the very peak of a rocky headland almost at water level, the site and its views offering beautiful moments of contemplation.
A small mosque protects seven tombs of uncertain actual contents, dedicated to the venerated muslim saint Ömer and his companions. A multitude of legends are told about Ömer and his fellows, their common element being that the men sacrificed their lives in the combat of Byzantines or pirates. For ages, Arab piracy in pursuit of slaves and other goods constituted a constant menace to costal dwellers in Cyprus and all around the Mediterranean.
Bellapais Monastery
Bellapais Monastery, also known as “Abbey of Our Lady of the Bells,” is a medieval gothic abbey located in the picturesque village of Bellapais, in the Kyrenia district of Northern Cyprus. The abbey, built in the 13th century, was once a center of learning and culture on the island, home to a community of Augustinian Canons and famous for its scriptorium where many important manuscripts were produced. The abbey was also a place of pilgrimage for centuries. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful views over the coast and the Five Finger Mountains. Visitors can explore the Abbey’s church, cloister, and other buildings, as well as enjoy the peaceful gardens and take in the views from the terrace.
NICOSIA
Nicosia is the capital city of Cyprus, located in the center of the island. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times and is a melting pot of cultures and influences. Nicosia is the last divided capital in Europe, with the “Green Line” dividing the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. The Old City of Nicosia, with its Venetian walls, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into the city’s past. The city also offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as a growing startup and tech scene. Nicosia is also a hub for education and research, with several universities and research centers. Nicosia is a city with a rich history and culture, offering a variety of possibilities for residents and visitors alike.
Haydar Pasha Mosque
The Haydar Pasha Mosque is a historic building located in the city of Nicosia, Cyprus. The mosque is considered one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture on the island. The mosque features a large central dome and two smaller domes, as well as an ornate minaret. The interior of the mosque is decorated with intricate tilework and calligraphy. The Haydar Pasha Mosque has a long history and was originally built in 1569 by the Ottoman Governor of Cyprus, Haydar Pasha. The mosque was used as a place of worship for the local Muslim community for centuries, but was eventually converted into a church during the British colonial period. After Cyprus gained independence in 1960, the mosque was returned to the Muslim community and today it serves as a Mosque again. It is a must-visit destination for those interested in Ottoman architecture and the history of Cyprus. It’s an interesting example of the cultural exchange and syncretism that took place in the island during the centuries.
Great Inn
The Büyük Han (“big inn”) is one of the oldest still standing caravanserai buildings. It was built in 1572, soon after the Ottomans’ conquest of Cyprus, providing travellers with accomodation and facilities for communication and trade. The Büyük Han’s two storeys have 70 rooms arranged around a cobblestone yard. In its centre a Mescit (Islamic chapel)nestles on pillars above a fountain for ablutions. The graceful simplicity of the composition make it a perfect place to sit and ease off.
Throughout its history, the Büyük Han has served as housing for the poor and as a prison. It was carefully restored in 2003 and has become a popular Nicosia old city venue with its mix of workshops,cafés and shops.
St Sophia Cathedral / Selimiye Mosque
Selimiye Mosque, originally the Roman Catholic cathedral of Hagia Sophia, is one of the oldest and most beautiful examples of Gothic art in Cyprus, the work of the French masons who accompanied the Crusades. The monumental main door and the carved stone window above it are particularly interesting. Its construction began in 1209 during the reign of Lusignan King Henry I and lasted for 150 years. There is evidence that it was built on the ruins of a much older Byzantine church called Hagia Sophia. When the Ottomans took the city in 1570, they demolished the interior floors, cut the pulpit and benches as firewood, and used the tombstones as flooring. Unfortunately, the more interesting tombstones are no longer visible as the floor is covered with a large carpet. The church was renamed the Hagia Sophia Mosque as a mosque and retained that name until it was changed to Selimiye Mosque in 1954.
St. George Church
The historical Great Bath of Nicosia, belonging to the Cyprus Foundations Administration, was built by the Ottomans using its ruins after the building, which served as the palace church (St. George de Poulains) during the Lusignan Period, was damaged in the construction of the new city walls and in the battles of conquest during the Venetians Period. , with the financing of the UNDP-ACT United Nations Development Program-Action for Cooperation and Trust in Cyprus, amounting to approximately 500.000 Euros, was restored and put into service as a result of the works between 2008-2010. The Great Bath has a larger and more functional structure compared to the Ömerge (Ömeriye) Bath, which is located in the Greek part of Nicosia and also belongs to the Cyprus Foundations Administration.
Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque
The Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, also known as St. Nicholas Cathedral, is a historic mosque located in the city of Famagusta, Cyprus. The mosque was originally built in the 14th century as a Gothic cathedral dedicated to St. Nicholas, but was later converted into a mosque in 1571 by the Ottoman Empire. One of the most striking features of the mosque is its imposing minaret, which stands at a height of over 60 feet. The minaret is adorned with intricate tilework and carvings, and offers panoramic views of the city. The mosque’s interior is also noteworthy, with its high arched ceilings and large central dome. The mosque is a symbol of Famagusta’s rich history, serving as an important religious site for both Christians and Muslims. It also represents the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Cyprus over the centuries.
FAMAGUSTA
It is believed that the ancient city of Salamis was built by Teucer, who returned from the Trojan war. During the Roman Empire, Salamis was known as the largest trade center in the east of the empire. An earthquake in the 4th century AD completely destroyed Salamis. After that, it was rebuilt by Emperor Constantine and took the name of Costantia. In 648, the city was once again devastated by Arab invaders and has not been repaired since then. Located next to one of the most beautiful sandy beaches of the island of Cyprus, the ancient city of Salamis is located in a partially forested area. The theatre, sports field, baths and market area in the city, which is the biggest amphitheater in Cyprus, can be visited.
Salamis Ancient City
It is believed that the ancient city of Salamis was built by Teucer, who returned from the Trojan war. During the Roman Empire, Salamis was known as the largest trade center in the east of the empire. An earthquake in the 4th century AD completely destroyed Salamis. After that, it was rebuilt by Emperor Constantine and took the name of Costantia. In 648, the city was once again devastated by Arab invaders and has not been repaired since then. Located next to one of the most beautiful sandy beaches of the island of Cyprus, the ancient city of Salamis is located in a partially forested area. The theatre, sports field, baths and market area in the city, which is the biggest amphitheater in Cyprus, can be visited.
Closed Maras
It is in the Military zone of the Closed Maraş location in Cyprus, under the control of the military and does not allow civilians to enter. Photographs of the site, old or new, taken remotely from some of the surrounding buildings, can easily be found on the Internet. It is a location that was closed after the Cyprus Peace Operation in 1974 and the entry of civilians was completely prohibited. Maraş Region was a very popular holiday center before the war. There were luxury hotels in the region. Still, the buildings in this area bear the scars of the war and stand empty as a ghost town. If you visit Famagusta, you can observe this ghost town even from afar without entering this district.
St.Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum
Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum is a historical site located in the northern part of Cyprus. The monastery is dedicated to Saint Barnabas, one of the apostles of Jesus and the patron saint of the island. The monastery was founded in the 4th century AD and is considered one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world. The Icon Museum, located within the monastery, houses a collection of Byzantine icons and other religious artifacts. The museum is open to visitors and is a popular destination for those interested in the history of Christianity and art.
ISKELE
Iskele is a city located in the northeastern part of Cyprus, it is known for its rich history and natural beauty. The city has a long history dating back to ancient times and is home to a number of historical landmarks, such as the St. Mamas church, an ancient church believed to be built over the tomb of the martyr Saint Mamas, who is considered the patron saint of the city. Iskele is also known for its beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters, making it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The city is also surrounded by picturesque mountains and hills, offering opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. With its rich history and natural beauty, Iskele is a great destination for those who appreciate history and the great outdoors.
Kantara Castle
Kantara Castle is a medieval fortress located in the Eastern part of Cyprus. The castle, which sits on top of a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, was built in the 14th century by the Lusignans, a French dynasty that ruled over Cyprus during the Middle Ages. It was later expanded and fortified by the Venetians and Ottomans.
The Castle offers a great panoramic views of the surrounding area and it’s a popular spot for tourists. The castle is known for its well-preserved ruins, including a chapel, a palace, and a cistern. Visitors can also explore the castle’s tunnels and battlements, as well as admire the views from the top of the tower.
It is a popular spot for history lovers and visitors interested in the medieval history of Cyprus.
GUZELYURT
Morphou is a city located in the northwest of Cyprus, known for its rich history, natural beauty and opportunities. The city has a long history dating back to the Byzantine period and is famous for its impressive medieval castle. Morphou is also known for its citrus plantations, which have been an important part of the city’s economy for centuries. The city is also surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a great spot for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the great outdoors. Morphou is also an important center for education and research, with a number of universities and research centers. It is also a place where people can find job opportunities and a peaceful lifestyle.
Soli Ancient City
The ancient city of Soli is an archaeological site located in the modern-day country of Cyprus. The city was founded in the 6th century BC by the Greeks, and it was one of the ten city-kingdoms of Cyprus. Soli was situated on a small hill, above the salt pans, and had a good harbour, which made it an important center of trade and culture in the region. The city reached its peak of prosperity in the 4th century BC, but was later conquered by the Romans in 58 BC, who renamed it as Soli Pompeiopolis. Despite the Roman conquest, the city continued to thrive and was an important center of Christianity in the region. The city decline and was abandoned in the 7th century AD, due to Arab raids and earthquakes, but many of its structures, such as the basilica, remain well-preserved as ruins. Today, the ancient city of Soli is an important archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination in Cyprus.
Soli Theater
The Soli Theater, on the other hand, was built in the place of the Greek theater, which was once located in the same place during the Roman period. M.S. It dates from the end of the 2nd century and the beginning of the 3rd century. The section with semi-circular rows of seats reserved for the audience was partially carved into the rock of the hill. This place was separated from the middle part called the orchestra by a low wall made of limestone blocks. In fact, the seating capacity of 4000 has been restored to half its height today. The stage building had two floors and was covered with marble and decorated with sculptures. The part that can be seen today was the platform on which the stage building was built. Traces of a temple dedicated to Isis and Aphrodite were found on a hill to the west of the theatre.
St Mamas Monastery and Icon Museum
St. Mamas Monastery and Icon Museum is a historical site located in the village of Morphou in Cyprus. The monastery is dedicated to St. Mamas, a martyr and patron saint of the village. The monastery is believed to have been founded in the 13th century, although the current building dates back to the 18th century. The monastery features well-preserved frescoes and icons, as well as a museum displaying a collection of religious artifacts and manuscripts. The Icon Museum is a part of the monastery, which houses a collection of Byzantine icons and other religious artifacts. The monastery is an important pilgrimage site for the Greek Orthodox community and is open to visitors.
