Girne (Kyreneia) Castle — Attraction in Girne Belediyesi

The Castle is a captivating historical site that has witnessed centuries of history. Originally built by the Romans in the 7th century BC, the castle has undergone numerous transformations over the years.

During the Ottoman rule in the 16th century, the castle underwent significant changes, although many of these alterations were later reversed by the British during their rule. Despite these changes, the castle's structure today largely reflects its Venetian-era design.

Visitors to the castle can explore its fortified walls, dungeons, and towers, experiencing firsthand the architectural legacy of the Ottoman Empire in Cyprus. The castle's strategic location overlooking the port of Kyrenia served as a military stronghold and later as a prison during the British colonial period.

One of the highlights of the castle is the Shipwreck Museum, which displays the remains of a Greek merchant ship from the 4th century BC. This well-preserved shipwreck provides valuable insight into ancient maritime trade.

Despite its historical significance, the castle's preservation and organization leave room for improvement, as it is not very well maintained. Additionally, there is a lack of tourist information support to explain the site's rich history. Nonetheless, the Castle stands today as a testament to Cyprus's heritage, showcasing its rich and diverse history...

I am from Kyrenia and grew up a 5 minute walk away from this castle. As a kid, they used to take us here for field trips and I remember the awe I felt, especially seeing the shipwreck, as everything felt really /cool/.

I moved away some time ago and recently visited with my partner to show her around Cyprus. I hadn't been in the castle for easily 15 years and going in, I felt that same awe.

It is quite large and has amazing views on the towers. There are multiple exhibitions inside, including the shipwreck museum, a torture chamber (which includes displays of the devices with mannequins, I wish I hadn't seen these as a kid), old sarcophagi of Ottoman rulers, grave stones, carvings related to the history of the castle, amphoras and other findings from the shipwreck, and some very fun old maps.

The only reason I docked a star is that the top of the castle walls and the towers need more safety measures. I would advise you to be careful up there, especially if you visit with kids, but the view is spectacular and definitely worth it.

The entry is free for locals, and only the equivalent of 1 euro for tourists. Recently toured many historical places in Cyprus and it's absolutely amazing value for money, unlike...

Girne Castle, also known as Kyrenia Castle, stands as a majestic symbol of Cyprus's rich history and heritage, drawing travelers to its ancient walls and storied past. Perched on the shores of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea in the charming town of Girne (Kyrenia), the castle offers visitors a captivating journey through centuries of tumultuous history. Its strategic location and well-preserved architecture provide a fascinating glimpse into Cyprus's Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman periods, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. Inside the castle, travelers can explore its labyrinthine corridors, climb its ancient towers, and admire breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. However, some travelers may find the entrance fees to be relatively high compared to other attractions in the area, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious visitors. Additionally, the castle's popularity among tourists can lead to overcrowding during peak seasons, detracting from the overall experience for some travelers. Despite these potential drawbacks, Girne Castle remains a captivating testament to Cyprus's enduring legacy and a highlight of any visit to the...