Background

Kolossi Castle: A Crusader Stronghold

Discover the medieval might of Kolossi Castle, a Crusader fortress with a legacy of knights, sugar, and the world-famous Commandaria wine.

4.4

Explore Kolossi Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress near Limassol, Cyprus. Originally built in the 13th century by the Knights Hospitaller, it later served as the Grand Commandery and played a key role in the production of Commandaria wine. Climb to the top for panoramic views and delve into its rich Crusader history.

A brief summary to Kolossi Castle

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the narrow spiral staircases to reach the top of the keep.
  • Visit during spring, autumn, or winter to avoid the intense summer heat.
  • Sample the local Commandaria wine, a sweet dessert wine with a rich history.
  • Check the official website for current opening hours, as they may vary seasonally.
  • Explore the ruins of the adjacent 14th-century sugar mill to understand the castle's economic role.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Limassol, take bus number 17 towards Kolossi. The bus departs from the Old Hospital (Tzelal Bagiar - Agios Antonios Church 1) and stops at Kolossi Castle. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes. The fare is €1.50 per person.

  • Car

    From Limassol city center, head west on the A1 highway towards Paphos. Take the exit towards the B6 road and follow the signs for Kolossi. The castle is located just off the B6. There is free parking available on-site.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Limassol and can take you to Kolossi Castle. A taxi ride from Limassol to Kolossi Castle typically costs between €17 and €21 and takes approximately 13 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Kolossi Castle

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Kolossi Castle

Kolossi Castle, located 14 kilometers (9 miles) west of Limassol, is a compelling reminder of Cyprus's Crusader past. Originally constructed in the 13th century, around 1210, by the Frankish military when King Hugh I gave the land to the Knights Hospitallers, it served as an important stronghold. The castle was rebuilt in its present form in 1454 by the Hospitallers under Commander Louis de Magnac, whose coat-of-arms is still visible on the walls. Kolossi Castle held strategic importance during the Middle Ages, housing facilities for producing sugar from local sugarcane, a major export of Cyprus at the time. The Knights Templar briefly controlled the castle in the early 14th century before it returned to the Hospitallers. Today, visitors can explore the three-story keep, a well-preserved example of military architecture, and climb to the roof for views of the surrounding countryside. Adjacent to the castle are the ruins of a 14th-century sugar mill, offering insights into the region's economic activities during that era. The area is also renowned for Commandaria wine, one of the oldest named wines in the world, which the Knights produced and exported. Legend says that King Richard the Lionheart declared it the 'wine of kings and the king of wines' at his wedding banquet in Limassol.

Popular Experiences near Kolossi Castle

Popular Hotels near Kolossi Castle

Select Currency