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Venetian Palace Ruins: Echoes of Famagusta's Past

Explore the Venetian Palace ruins in Famagusta, a historical landmark showcasing a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.

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The Venetian Palace ruins in Famagusta stand as a poignant reminder of the city's rich history. Once a grand residence for Venetian governors, the site now features the remains of a Lusignan palace from the 13th century and a triple-arched front, showcasing a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles.

A brief summary to Venetian palace ruins

  • Famagusta, Suriçi

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the ground is uneven.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque and Othello Castle.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Venetian Palace ruins are located in Suriçi, Famagusta, specifically at the western end of Namik Kemal Square, across from the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque. From most points within the walled city, the ruins are easily accessible on foot. Simply head towards the center of the city and follow signs for Namik Kemal Square. The ruins are a short walk from other historical sites such as Othello Castle and St. George of the Greeks Church Ruins.

  • Public Transport

    Famagusta is served by a network of buses and shared taxi services (dolmuş). From the Famagusta bus station, the Venetian Palace ruins are approximately a 15-minute walk. Follow the main road into the walled city and head towards Namik Kemal Square. Bus tickets can be purchased on the bus. A single fare typically costs around €2-€3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Famagusta. A short taxi ride from the outskirts of the city to the Venetian Palace ruins should cost approximately €5-€10. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Venetian palace ruins

Located in Famagusta, the Venetian Palace ruins offer a glimpse into Cyprus's diverse cultural heritage. Originally built by the Lusignan Kings of Cyprus around 1300, the palace was partially destroyed by earthquakes in 1369. The Venetians, recognizing Famagusta's strategic importance, moved the capital from Nicosia and renovated the palace ruins between 1552 and 1554, blending Gothic and Italian Renaissance styles. All that remains of the Palazzo del Proveditore is its triple-arched front, supported by granite columns salvaged from Salamis. Above the central arch, the coat of arms of Giovanni Renier, the Captain of Cyprus in 1552, can still be seen. The palace played a role in key historical events, including Marco Antonio Bragadin's resistance to the Ottoman conquest. Today, the ruins stand across from the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque (formerly St. Nicholas Cathedral) in Namik Kemal Square. The site has served various purposes throughout its history, including being used as a parking lot. It is now paved and used as a venue for open-air concerts.

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