Buffavento Castle — Attraction in Dikmen Belediyesi

If you're a history buff or an adventurer seeking breathtaking views, Buffavento Castle is an absolute must-visit destination in Northern Cyprus!

Perched atop the Kyrenia mountain range, this medieval fortress offers an enchanting journey through time. As you ascend the winding path to the castle, you'll be captivated by its ancient walls and rugged beauty. The hike is invigorating and rewards you with awe-inspiring panoramic views that stretch all the way to the shimmering Mediterranean Sea.

Stepping into Buffavento Castle is like stepping into history. Imagine standing where Byzantine soldiers once stood, defending against invaders and gazing out at a changing world. The castle's name, which translates to "defier of the winds," adds a touch of mystery, reminding us of the challenges faced by those who built and defended this impressive stronghold.

History aficionados will delight in exploring the remnants of this once-mighty fortress. Towering walls, ancient chambers, and remnants of a bygone era will transport you back in time. The castle's role in medieval conflicts, its connections to various empires, and its vantage point for monitoring the region's activities all contribute to its rich historical tapestry.

Don't forget your camera! The panoramic views from Buffavento Castle are postcard-worthy. Capture the sweeping landscapes and rugged terrain that surround you, as well as the fascinating architectural details that have withstood the test of time.

Please note that reaching the castle involves a moderately challenging hike or drive up the mountain. But trust me, the journey is worth every step. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.

In summary, Buffavento Castle is a gem that lets you walk in the footsteps of history while immersing yourself in breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this castle will leave an indelible mark on your...

At 955m above sea level, Buffavento castle stands the highest of the three crusader castles. However it is the least well preserved. It probably originated as a Byzantine watch tower to guard against Arab raiders in the 10th century. It is said that the Byzantine king Isaac Commenos fled here when Richard the Lionheart invaded in 1191. The king's daughter surrendered herself and the castle to Richard, but Isaac Commenos continued his flight to Kantara. The castle was extended during the Lusignan rule, as were her sister castles of St Hilarion and Kantara. The Lusignan kings used the castle mainly as a political prison, known as the "Chateau du Lion". In particular, Peter I when reluctantly warned by his friend John Visconti of the queen's infidelity, repaid the favour by imprisoning and torturing him at Kyrenia, and later locking Visconti up at Buffavento to starve to death. By the 16th century, the castle had been dismantled by the Venetians in an attempt to protect themselves, as their focus moved to the strongholds along the coast at Kyrenia and Famagusta. From the seaward side, the castle is almost invisible, and the best long distance view is from the Nicosia side, where you can clearly see the remains of the castle bulging out from the top of...

My favorite of all Cyprus' castles... by far.

Buffavento is hard work. First of all, getting to the parking lot involves a precarious drive along a single-lane road with steep drops, which in itself is not for the fainthearted. Once you're in the parking lot you're facing a climb which can take from about 50 minutes to two and a half hours, depending on your level of fitness and your determination.

However, once you make it to the top the castle is nothing short of spectacular, with 360 degree views of Cyprus. On a clear day you can basically see the entire island from here, with the only exception being what's on the other side of the even higher Troodos massif to the south-west. The ruins and panoramas are simply spectacular, and if you're into taking photos you'll need to bring the big memory card.

Pro-Tip: If you're coming here in summer it pays to keep an eye on overall visibility through the weather forecasts. Things can get a little hazy during the summer months, so it's best to pick one of the clearer days. If you get it right you'll be able to make out the Atlas Mountains on the Turkish mainland...