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Girne Castle: A Coastal Fortress Through the Ages

Explore Kyrenia Castle: a historic fortress with stunning views, ancient ruins, and the famed Shipwreck Museum in Kyrenia, Cyprus.

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Dominating Kyrenia's harbor, Girne Castle is a 16th-century Venetian fortress built upon Crusader foundations. Explore its ramparts, dungeons, museums, and a 12th-century chapel, all while enjoying panoramic Mediterranean views. A testament to Cyprus's rich and turbulent history, the castle offers a captivating glimpse into the island's past.

A brief summary to Girne (Kyrenia) Castle

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the castle involves walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Don't forget your camera; the views from the castle's towers are spectacular !
  • Check out the museum exhibits inside the castle for a deeper insight into the local history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kyrenia's main bus station, head towards the harbor. Walk along the main road with the sea on your left. Continue until you reach Girne Castle, located at the harbor's end. The walk takes about 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From other cities in Northern Cyprus, take a dolmuş (minibus) or bus to Kyrenia. From Nicosia, buses depart every 30 minutes and take approximately 30 minutes to reach Kyrenia. Once in Kyrenia, the castle is a short walk from the bus station. Bus/dolmuş fares within Kyrenia typically range from 2.50 TL to 5 TL.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Kyrenia. A taxi from the Kyrenia bus station to Girne Castle takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Confirm the fare before starting your journey. The estimated fare is around 11.5 EUR for a 5km ride. Taxis generally charge a base fee of 4 EUR plus 1.5 EUR per kilometer.

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Discover more about Girne (Kyrenia) Castle

Girne Castle, also known as Kyrenia Castle, stands guard at the entrance to Kyrenia's picturesque harbor, a stoic witness to centuries of Cypriot history. Originally built by the Byzantines in the 7th century to defend against Arab raids, the castle has been modified and expanded by numerous powers, including the Lusignans, Venetians, and Ottomans. Each era has left its mark, creating a unique architectural blend that reflects the island's diverse cultural heritage. As you approach the castle, the imposing Venetian-era round towers command attention, a testament to 16th-century military engineering. Enter through the main gate, once accessed by a drawbridge, and step into the vast courtyard. Within the castle walls, discover a 12th-century chapel showcasing Roman capitals, the final resting place of Ottoman Admiral Sadik Pasha, and museums housing artifacts from various periods. The Shipwreck Museum is a highlight, displaying the remains of a 4th-century BC Greek merchant ship, a poignant reminder of Kyrenia's maritime importance in the ancient Mediterranean. Explore the castle's dungeons, where Peter I's mistress, Joanna l'Aleman, was once imprisoned. Ascend the ramparts for breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor and the Mediterranean Sea. Girne Castle has served many purposes throughout its long history, from a royal residence and prison to a military headquarters and police barracks. Today, it stands as a powerful symbol of Kyrenia and a must-see destination for anyone interested in history and culture.

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