Kolossi Castle: A Crusader Stronghold

Kolossi Castle stands as a compelling reminder of Cyprus's Crusader history. Originally constructed in the 13th century by the Knights Hospitallers, the castle served as a strategic military and economic center. The Knights of the Order of St. John used the area for producing sugar from locally grown sugarcane, a major export of Cyprus at the time. The current structure dates back to 1454, rebuilt by Louis de Magnac, the Commander of Kolossi, whose coat-of-arms is still visible on the castle walls. Briefly held by the Knights Templar in the early 14th century, it soon returned to the Hospitallers. The three-story keep, with its thick walls and small windows, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from its rooftop. Kolossi was also known for its sweet wine, Commandaria, which has been produced in the region for centuries. Legend says that King Richard the Lionheart, at his wedding in Limassol, declared it the 'wine of kings and the king of wines'. Today, visitors can explore the castle, examine the ruins of the 14th-century sugar mill, and sample the renowned Commandaria wine. The castle is open year-round, except for Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and Greek Orthodox Easter Sunday.