Sightseeing in Famagusta - what to see. Complete travel guide

A major port city, this place is known as an international center of commerce and tourism. Famagusta is a city with rich history. First settlers have built homes here already in the prehistoric times. In the 4th century the city was totally destroyed by a disastrous earthquake of the past times. Nowadays only the ruins of Temple of Zeus, the stadium and the ruins of the necropolis remind of those times. Numerous sights and places of interest that can be found in any part of the city will be genuinely interesting for visitors of this magnificent resort.

Othello Tower is, without a doubt, one of the most notable buildings here. According to a legend the tragic events described in the famous play by Shakespeare have taken place exactly in this tower. City walls, the height of which reaches 17 meters, are the oldest structure that has survived till our days. The walls are in wonderful condition even nowadays. The purpose of these walls is vivid – they surround the so-called Old Town, where you can see numerous old streets, craft shops and souvenir stores.

The southern part of the city is the location of Greek Cape – an amazingly beautiful place with panoramic views of the city and the coast. There are several deep caves at the foot of the cape. They are also popular among visitors. There are always many people here, who wish to explore the beauty of nature, as well as divers and fishermen. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Among the religious sites of the city we should definitely mention two churches that were built back in the days of the reign of the Byzantine Empire in the 12th century. One of them - Church of the Virgin Mary - is located in the village named Liopetri. The dome of the church is rather unusual for such buildings as it has eight sides. The halls of the sanctuary are decorated with frescoes depicting the faces of saints. The city’s neighborhood is also very picturesque and interesting from the historical point of view. You will find the ruins of ancient temples, amphitheaters and large squares right on every step.

The Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque is the most interesting architectural monument. Originally, it was a Christian temple. Like many other Christian religious constructions, the temple was converted into a mosque during the rule of the Ottoman Empire. The building has remained virtually unchanged and is distinguished by a luxurious facade design since its construction at the end of the 13th century. The mosque is built in the best traditions of the Gothic style. A small Gothic chapel survived behind it. Some years ago, it was fully refurbished. Currently, it houses a restaurant. You can see an old fig tree nearby. The tree is believed to be planted during the foundation of the temple.

At the top of one of the rocky hills are the ruins of the Byzantine Kanthar castle. The first mention of the castle dates back to 1191. Among numerous mountain castles in Cyprus, this one is perfectly kept. Visitors will have an opportunity to walk around its surviving halls and enjoy the panorama that opens from the top of the mountain.

The monastery of St. Barnabas is located in the immediate vicinity of Famagusta. It managed to perfectly survive a hundred years from now. Yet, visitors can see an old church and a small chapel. Several years ago, an interesting museum was opened in the church. Its main exhibits are icons of different ages. Today, the archaeological museum occupies the building of the monastery. All the presented exhibits have been discovered in Cyprus.

A bright example of the medieval military architecture is the Martinengo Bastion built in the second half of the 16th century. The fort was named after one of the famous Venetian commanders. Nowadays, almost all the territory of the bastion is open to the public. An old cemetery has been preserved on its territory. It still amazes with its powerful and unapproachable appearance.

Janbulat Museum presents a collection of unique exhibits dedicated to the days of the Ottoman Empire. The museum was named after the legendary Ottoman warrior, known for his feats. Today, it keeps a multifaceted and attractive collection of exhibits. Antique weapons, unique objects of art, traditional clothes and various household items, ceramics and jewelry are just some of the exhibits stored there.