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Larnaka Medieval Fort: A Coastal Sentinel Through Time

Explore Larnaka's Medieval Fort: a journey through time, from ancient fortress to Ottoman stronghold and British prison, now a captivating museum.

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The Larnaka Medieval Fort, also known as Larnaka Castle, stands at the end of the Foinikoudes promenade, guarding the city's coast. Originally built in the Middle Ages, it has been shaped by various rulers, serving as a fort, prison, and now a museum showcasing the region's rich history.

A brief summary to Larnaka Medieval Fort

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary between summer and winter seasons.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll along the Foinikoudes promenade and a meal at a nearby restaurant.
  • Visit during the summer to catch a theatrical performance or concert in the fort's courtyard.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere along the Foinikoudes promenade, simply walk south towards the end of the beach. The fort is located at the end of the promenade and is easily visible. There is no cost associated with walking to the fort.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus to the Finikoudes bus stop. From there, walk south along the Foinikoudes promenade until you reach the fort. Bus fares are approximately €1.50 for a single journey during the day. A day ticket costs €5.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi to the Larnaka Medieval Fort, located at the end of Foinikoudes promenade. Taxi fares in Larnaka start with a base fare of €3, with an additional €1 per kilometer. A short trip from the city center should cost approximately €10-€15.

  • Car

    Drive towards the city center of Larnaka and follow signs for the Foinikoudes promenade. The fort is located at the end of the promenade. Parking is available nearby, with hourly rates typically around €1-€2.

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Discover more about Larnaka Medieval Fort

Larnaka Medieval Fort, a historical cornerstone also referred to as Larnaka Castle, is situated at the end of the popular Foinikoudes promenade in Larnaca. Its story is a tapestry woven from the threads of various eras and empires. Believed to have originated in the Middle Ages, the fort's current structure largely reflects its time under Ottoman rule, although its precise origins are debated. Some historical accounts attribute its initial construction to Lusignan King James I (1382-1398 AD), who sought to protect Larnaka's harbor. However, other sources suggest the Turks built it around 1625 AD, despite a Turkish garrison being stationed there as early as 1570 AD. Over the centuries, the fort has served multiple purposes. Following the end of Ottoman rule, the British converted it into a prison, using it in the early years of their administration. The western chamber on the ground floor was even used for executions until 1948. Today, the fort houses the Larnaka Medieval Museum, which displays artifacts from the Early Christian period (4th-7th centuries) through the Ottoman period (18th-19th centuries) across three rooms. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring Byzantine wall paintings, medieval pottery, Venetian-era helmets and swords, and Ottoman-era cooking utensils. The fort's courtyard also features a collection of Ottoman cannons. The fort is open year-round, though it is closed on public holidays. During the summer months (April 16 - September 15) it is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 19:30 and Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 to 19:30. During the winter months (September 16 - April 15) it is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 17:00 and Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 to 17:00. The entrance fee is €2.50 per person.

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