When it comes to the sights of North Cyprus, what is the first image that comes to your mind? The Mediterranean and its enchanting weather may be the only image that comes to your mind. You may know North Cyprus only by its natural attractions; But it is interesting to know that this land, in addition to its unique nature, also has something to say in history. In order to get to know the historical monuments of North Cyprus and, in addition, to know its exciting entertainment, stay with us in this article from Last Second Tourism Magazine.
Where are the attractions and places of interest in North Cyprus?
Among the places of interest in North Cyprus are Saint Hilarion Castle, Vouni Palace, Selimiye Mosque, Buffonto Castle, Kantara Castle, Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, Nicosia Old Town, Buyuk Han Caravanserai, Karpas Peninsula, Walled City of Famagusta, Ancient Salamis, Ancient City of Soli. , Apostolos Varnavas Monastery, St. Barnabas Monastery, Blapais Monastery and the port of Kyrenia. In the continuation of this article, we have tried to introduce these places of interest in Northern Cyprus.
The complete travel guide to Northern Cyprus
Sights of Northern Cyprus
If you are determined to travel to shake off everyday fatigue and are looking for a destination that has both charming nature and historical value, you can choose a tour of North Cyprus. A memorable visit to a land of Mediterranean waters with enjoyable sights and activities can refresh you so much that you will be intoxicated by remembering its beauty for a long time.
Vouni Palace
If you are an adventurer and a lover of history and archeology, we suggest that you include a visit to the Vouni Palace in your itinerary during your trip to Northern Cyprus. This palace, which dates back to five centuries BC, is located on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean and is now an archaeological site.
Doxandros, the ruler of the city of Marion, was a pro-Iranian person, and with the aim of controlling the city of Soli, he built the Voni Palace above this city. In 449 BC, when the Greek government replaced the Iranian government in that region, a pro-Greek prince replaced the Marion ruler and the Vouni palace became the royal palace. This use continued until 380 BC, until it was destroyed by fire in this year. Some documents show that the residents of Suli played a role in the destruction of the Voni Palace; Because the existence of this palace has been a threat to them. Some of the remains of Wunni Palace are: entrance, residential rooms, living room, offices, kitchen courtyard, pillared courtyard, bath and water tank.
- Address Vouni Palace: Near the city of Lefka
- Visiting time of Vuni Palace: Summer from 8 am to 6 pm. Winter from 8 am to 3.5 pm.
- The ticket price of Vooni Palace: 9 lira
Exact location of the Vonny Palace on the map
Famagusta Walled City
The walled city of Famagusta is one of the attractions that you should not miss when visiting the sights of Northern Cyprus. This city, which is considered a historical area located on the eastern coast of North Cyprus, was built in the Middle Ages and was an important commercial center during that time. The Venetians built the city walls in the 15th century.
The walls of this city were designed to protect the city from the attacks of the Ottoman Turks and other enemies. Unfortunately, since 1974, when Turkey invaded Cyprus, Famagusta was largely abandoned and many of its buildings have been destroyed. In recent years, efforts have been made to restore and preserve the historical monuments of this city.
- Address of the walled city of Famagusta: Northern Cyprus
- When to visit the walled city of Famagusta: Spring and summer from Monday to Friday 10 am to 1 pm and 5 pm to 8 pm. Fall and winter from Monday to Friday 10 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm. Closed on Saturday and Sunday.
- Famagusta walled city ticket price: Free
Exact location of the walled city of Famagusta
Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque
Now you will get acquainted with the most important historical building in Famagusta and one of the most prominent religious buildings in Northern Cyprus, Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque. This mosque, which is also known as Saint Nicholas Church, is one of the sights of Northern Cyprus. It was built as a cathedral by the Lousinian dynasty in the 14th century and turned into a mosque after the conquest of the city by the Ottoman Empire.
Lala Mustafa Pasha was a famous Ottoman commander who led the conquest of Famagusta and the name of this mosque is derived from his name. Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture and visiting it will be one of the most interesting parts of your trip to Northern Cyprus.
- Address of Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque: Northern Cyprus, Famagusta
- Visiting time of Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque: Every day from 9 am to 6 pm. Fridays from 9 am to 12 noon
- ticket price Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque: Free
The exact location of Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque
Salamis
One of the sights of North Cyprus is a city that was the capital of Cyprus centuries ago. Salamis, located on the east coast of Cyprus, was an important center of trade and commerce and had a strong military presence due to its strategic location. In addition, Salamis was a cultural and artistic center and important religious monuments were located there.
Various empires and nations including Persians, Assyrians, Greeks, Romans and Byzantines have conquered and ruled this city throughout history. Finally, in the 7th century AD, Salamis was abandoned due to Arab attacks and is now a place for history and archeology enthusiasts.
- Address of Salamis: North of Famagusta
- Time to visit Salamis: 24 hour
- Salamis ticket price: 12 lira
Exact location of Salamis
Nicosia Old City
Another sight to see in Northern Cyprus is its capital, the old city of Nicosia. In the narrow streets of this city, you will see many historical monuments that you will read about later. Nicosia is surrounded by the 16th century Venetian Wall.
One of the reasons why Nicosia’s old town is famous is its lively and bustling street life with a wide range of cafes, restaurants and shops. Tourists who love history and culture may spend several days exploring the streets of Nicosia and seeing its historical monuments.
- Address The old city of Nicosia: Northern Cyprus
- Time to visit The old city of Nicosia: 24 hour
- ticket price The old city of Nicosia: Free
The location of the old city of Nicosia
Selimiye Mosque
One of the spectacular effects of Ottoman architecture is the Selimiye Mosque, which is also known as the Saint Sophia Cathedral. This historic mosque, which is the oldest and largest surviving Gothic church in Cyprus, is located in the city of Nicosia.
This valuable building was first built as a Christian cathedral in the 13th century during the Lusignan period, and after the conquest of Cyprus by the Ottomans in the 16th century, it was converted into a mosque to symbolize the strength of the Muslim faith. As a result of this change of use, all signs of Christianity were lost except for a few tombstones.
- Address Salimiya Mosque: Northern Cyprus, the city of Nicosia
- Time to visit Salimiya Mosque: 24 hour
- Ticket price of Salimiyah Mosque: Free
The exact location of Salimiyah Mosque
The Museum of Barbarism
If you are very interested in history and want to know more about historical crimes and genocides, go to the Barbarism Museum. The building of this museum was originally the house of Major Nihat Ilhan, a Turkish military doctor, whose family was attacked by Greek Cypriots on Christmas Eve 1963. On the night of the attack, Dr. Ilhan was on duty; But his wife, three children and one of their neighbors were killed in this attack. When they suddenly shot the first shot at the door, they went to the bathroom and toilet to hide; But after entering the house, the attackers killed them by shooting at the bathroom door, and six neighbors were seriously injured.
This museum, while showing effects of that heartbreaking crime, reminds of the violent years after the independence of Cyprus. In addition to exhibits about that murder, similar photographs of Turkish Cypriots who were killed in some villages can be seen at the Berberit Museum.
- Berberit Museum address: Northern Cyprus, the city of Nicosia
- Visiting time of Berberit Museum: From 8 am to 3.5 pm
- Barbarity Museum ticket price: Free
Exact location of Berberit Museum
Buyuk Han
Another important architectural work of the Ottoman period is a renovated inn in the city of Nicosia, which is now known as a cultural center and market. Boyok Han is one of the two remaining inns in Cyprus that has not lost its original appearance.
- Address Boyuk Han: Northern Cyprus, Nicosia city
- Time to visit Boyuk Han: 8 am to 8 pm
- ticket price Boyuk Han: Free
Exact location of Boyuk Han
Bedesten
Among the other sights of Northern Cyprus in the city of Nicosia, there is a covered market called Basten, which dates back to the 16th century. This market was the most important and busiest market in Nicosia during the Ottoman period until the beginning of the British rule, and it gradually became a market for selling all kinds of goods, especially textiles. Bastan, which is one of the architectural wonders and one of the important historical monuments of Northern Cyprus, has been hosting enthusiasts since 2009 as an exhibition place to reflect the multicultural and diverse lifestyle of this country.
- Address: Northern Cyprus, the city of Nicosia
- Time to visit Bastan: Every day from 10 am to 1 pm. Wednesdays from 2.5 pm to 5 pm. Closed on Sundays.
- Ticket price: Free
Get the exact position
CYPRUS MUSEUM OF MODERN ARTS
One of the other sights of Nicosia is the Cyprus Museum of Modern Art. If you are interested in culture and art, do not miss visiting this museum. The collection of the Cyprus Museum of Modern Arts contains works of art that represent the artistic and cultural values of this country. This museum plays an important role in selecting, collecting, protecting and displaying the works of art of Cyprus.
- Address of the Cyprus Museum of Modern Arts: Nicosia city
- Time to visit the Cyprus Museum of Modern Art: Every day from 10 am to 4.5 pm. Closed on Mondays
- Ticket price for foreign tourists: 10 euros
- Ticket price for tourists under 18 years old: 5 euros
The exact location of the Museum of Modern Art
Mevlevi Tekke Museum
Among other places of interest in Northern Cyprus in Nicosia is the Museum of Taky Molavi. This museum, which shows the traditions and history of Molavi Sufism, is located at the Girne Gate and Ebrahim Pasha neighborhood in the city of Nicosia. The whirling dervish ceremony, as part of the Turkish Cypriot heritage, is performed in this museum.
- Address Tekeh Molvi Museum: Northern Cyprus, the city of Nicosia
- Visiting time of Tekeh Molavi Museum: Every day from 9 to 16:30
- The ticket price of Tekeh Molvi Museum: 5 lira
The exact location of Tekeh Molavi Museum
Monastery of Apostolos Varnavas
Another sight to see in Northern Cyprus is the Apostolos Varnavas Monastery in the village of Pristrona in Nicosia. This monastery is one of the important religious places in Northern Cyprus, which is the destination of many tourists and pilgrims. In addition to the religious aspect, the architecture of this monastery deserves attention.
Apostolos Varnavas Monastery is an important center of Orthodox Christians in Cyprus and plays a significant role in the spiritual life of the people of Northern Cyprus. This monastery also has a museum that displays religious works such as manuscripts, clothes and symbols.
- Address of Apostolos Varnavas Monastery: Northern Cyprus, Nicosia city, Pristrona village
- Time to visit Apostolos Varnavas Monastery: Every day from 8 am to 4 pm
- Price Apostolos Varnavas Monastery ticket: 3 euros
The exact location of the Apostolos Monastery
Monastery of Saint Barnabas
Another monastery in Northern Cyprus is Saint Barnabas Monastery located near the city of Famagusta. The name of this monastery was derived from the name of St. Barnabas, an apostle. This monastery was built in the 4th century AD and has been renovated and expanded over the centuries. Now St. Barnabas Monastery is a complex that includes a church, library, museum and gift shop. One of the important features of this monastery is its collection of religious symbols, which are the best examples of Byzantine art in Cyprus. Some of these symbols date back to the 16th century.
- Address of Saint Barnabas Monastery: Northern Cyprus, the city of Nicosia, near Famagusta
- Time to visit Saint Barnabas Monastery: Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm
- Saint Barnabas Monastery ticket price: 3 euros
The exact location of Saint Barnabas Monastery
Kyrenia Harbor
Among the scenic areas of Northern Cyprus, we can mention the port of Kyrenia, which was called Pitarsek in the past. The lively and bustling environment of this port, its various cafes and restaurants, along with its natural attractions, have made the port of Kyrenia one of the popular destinations for tourists traveling to Northern Cyprus.
- Time to visit Kyrenia port: 24 hour
- ticket price Kyrenia port: Free
The exact location of Kyrenia port
Kyrenia Castle
On the way to visit the sights of Northern Cyprus, it is time to introduce a historical castle in Kyrenia. Built by Byzantines in the 7th century, Girne Castle is a strategic defense point against invaders and plays an important role in the history of Cyprus. This castle was turned into a museum in 1960 and now it displays a collection of historical works from various periods of the history of Northern Cyprus.
One of the sights of Girne Castle is the Shipwreck Museum. If you are a fan of adventure and archeology, don’t forget to visit this museum. In this museum, you will see a 2300-year-old commercial ship, which is the oldest ship discovered from the seabed. In 1965, a diver discovered the remains of this Greek merchant ship from the 4th century BC. After the opening of the museum in 1976, the hull and cargo of the ship along with other artifacts discovered from it were displayed in this museum. Saint George Church and Sadik Pasha’s coffin are other attractions of Girne Castle.
- Address Girne Castle: North Cyprus, Kyrenia port
- Time to visit Girne Castle: Spring and summer 9 am to 2 pm and 5 to 7 pm. Autumn and winter: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 4:45 pm
- ticket price Girne Castle: 20 lira
The exact location of Girne Castle
Saint Hilarion Castle
Another sight to see in Northern Cyprus is St. Hilarion Castle. The name of this castle was derived from the name of a hermit monk. This medieval castle, which is located in the Girne mountain range, is one of the three famous Byzantine castles to withstand Arab attacks. There is no exact information about the time of its construction; But the hypotheses consider the 11th century as the date of construction of the castle.
The reason for St. Hilarion Castle’s fame is the strength of its towers, walls and gates, as well as the unique view you will have of the surrounding landscape when you visit the castle. To reach this fort, you have a steep climb ahead of you and there are steps to climb up. We suggest that you use sturdy and suitable shoes to visit St. Hilarion Castle and have enough drinks with you in the hot season.
- St. Hilarion address: Northern Cyprus, Kyrenia
- Visiting time of St. Hilarion: Spring and summer from 9 am to 6 pm (last entry at 5 pm). Autumn and winter from 9 am to 4.5 pm (last entry at 3.5 pm)
- Saint Hilarion ticket price: 9 lira
Exact location of St. Hilarbon
Buffavento Castle
Prepare yourself to see the second castle. Buffonto Castle, standing on a mountain about 16 kilometers east of Kyrenia, is another medieval castle that the Byzantines built in the 10th century as a defense against Arab attacks. Although now there are ruins of this castle; But these ruins also tell about its admirable architecture.
Buffonto Castle is the highest castle in the region at an altitude of 954 meters above sea level. Although this figure lengthens the way to reach the castle; But at the same time, it gives you the opportunity to encounter amazing views. To reach Buffonto Castle, you have to go up a steep path; But rest assured, the view that awaits you at the castle is worth the walk.
- Address Buffonto Castle: Northern Cyprus, Kyrenia
- Time to visit Buffonto Castle: 24 hour
- Buffonto Castle ticket price: Free
Exact location of Buffonto Castle
Kantara Castle
Now it’s time to introduce the third castle. Kantara Castle, located in the east of North Cyprus, is another medieval fortress built during the Byzantine era. This castle, which, like the two mentioned castles, was built with the aim of protecting the region from Arab attacks, is located in Famagusta district and near Kantara village on a hill at a height of 630 meters above sea level. The strategic location of Kantara fort provided a clear view of the surroundings.
In the 13th century, during the Lusignan period, the castle was expanded and strengthened. A visit to Kantara Castle, in addition to being a review of the history of that area, makes your eyes a guest of magnificent and astonishing scenery; Spectacular views from Karpas Peninsula, Salamis Bay to Famagusta and other parts of Northern Cyprus.
- Address Kantara Castle: Northern Cyprus, Kyrenia
- Time to visit Kantara Castle: Spring and summer from 8 am to 5 pm. Autumn and winter from 8 am to 3.5 pm
- ticket price Kantara Castle: 7 lira
The exact location of Cantra Castle
Bellapais Abbey
Another sight to see in Northern Cyprus is a medieval monastery at the foot of the Kyrenia Mountains in the beautiful village of Belapais. The Bellapais Monastery was built by French Augustinian monks in the 13th century and is an excellent example of Gothic architecture in the Mediterranean. In addition to the architecture and historical and cultural importance, viewing the gardens and scenic views around the Blapais Monastery is one of the attractions that you will benefit from when visiting this monastery.
- Address of Blapais Monastery: Northern Cyprus, Kyrenia
- Time to visit Blapais Monastery: Spring and summer from 8 am to 7 pm. Autumn and winter from 8 am to 3.5 pm
- The ticket price of Blapais Monastery: 10 lira
The exact location of Blapais Monastery
Folk Art Museum
Among the other attractions of Northern Cyprus in the port of Kyrenia, we can mention the Museum of Folk Arts. This museum displays manifestations of culture, art, trade, traditions and other elements of traditional Cypriot life. This museum was once a granary belonging to a Cypriot philanthropist named Lady Loch, and after donating it to the antiquities department, it became a museum. The interior style of Folk Art Museum is similar to the style of Cypriot houses. Needlework, bridal dresses, looms and flower embroidery are some of the arts that you will see when you visit the Folk Art Museum.
- Address of Folk Art Museum: Northern Cyprus, Kyrenia
- Time to visit Folk Art Museum: From 8 to 15:30
- Folk art museum ticket price: 7 lira
The exact location of the Folk Art Museum
Peace and Freedom Museum
Another must-see place in Northern Cyprus in Kyrenia is the Peace and Freedom Museum. This museum, which includes an open-air section and an indoor exhibition hall, is attractive to history buffs. The Peace and Freedom Museum is a collection of photos and memorials of the soldiers who died in the Cyprus Peace Operation in 1974. In addition to them, a small military cemetery can also be seen in this museum.
- Address of Folk Art Museum: Northern Cyprus, Kyrenia
- Visiting time of Folk Art Museum: Every day from 8 am to 6 pm
- Folk art museum ticket price: Free
The exact location of the Peace and Freedom Museum
Karpass Peninsula
If you are looking for a place to escape from the hustle and bustle and want to enjoy the natural beauty, choose the Karpas Peninsula. Karpas Peninsula is a narrow and long peninsula located in the northeast of Cyprus. Pristine beaches, traditional villages, important archaeological sites and rich history of Karpas are the reasons for its popularity.
One of the important attractions of this peninsula is the Golden Beach, which is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. This beach with clear water and white sand is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Karpas National Park, which is the habitat of various plants and animals, is located in this peninsula. Apostolos Andreas Monastery, located at the tip of the Karpas Peninsula, is another of its sights. Wildlife, especially wild donkeys, is another attraction of Karpas.
- Address of Karpas Peninsula: Northeast of North Cyprus
- Time to visit the Karpas Peninsula: 24 hours a day
- Karpas Peninsula ticket price: Free
The exact location of the Karpas Peninsula
Ancient City of Soli
Another ancient city in Northern Cyprus is Soli. This city, which was founded around the 6th century BC, is one of the ten cities that made up Cyprus at that time. From this city, there are ruins that have turned it into one of the tourist destinations today.
- Address of the ancient city of Soli: Northern Cyprus
- Time to visit the ancient city of Soli: Spring and summer from 8 am to 6 pm. Autumn and winter from 8 pm to 3.45 pm
- The ticket price of the ancient city of Soli: 9 lira
Exact location of Soli Ancient Museum
Northern Cyprus entertainment
Entertainment is an attractive part of any trip; Especially if the purpose of your trip is to recover lost energy. North Cyprus is one of the destinations that offers many options in terms of entertainment. Whether you are into water sports or are interested in nature tourism and other activities, you will not be bored when you travel to Cyprus. Other North Cyprus recreations include fishing, hiking on mountain trails, camping, water parks, and nature tourism. In the following, you will get to know a number of exciting entertainments in this country.
paintball
If you are a fan of paintball sports, make a great morning or evening in North Cyprus with this choice. An enjoyable and popular sport that is played in the open environment and is suitable for both men and women. All the tools and equipment necessary for this sport will be given to you and you can create a memorable day with ease.
Watching the turtle
If you enjoy watching wildlife and are fascinated by discovery and adventure in this field, go to Alagadi Beach and experience one of the special activities of your life. Known as Turtle Beach, this beach is a long sandy beach that is mostly visited by local Cypriots. By going to this unique beach, you will have a memorable experience.
boat riding
Another option for you to enjoy while traveling to North Cyprus is boating. Getting on a boat and sailing in the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean is so tempting that you can’t say no. So if you also love boating, go to the Mediterranean Sea and don’t miss this lovely pastime. Several boats depart from the port of Kyrenia every day, so you can choose to have a quiet cruise or take a boat with noise and music, depending on your taste.
beach trip
We suggest not to neglect beach activities. The waters of Northern Cyprus are among the cleanest waters in Europe. Therefore, this trip is the best opportunity to make the most of the sea and the beach; Especially if you have small children, building sand castles and finding shells is a fun pastime for them. Older children can also dive in rock pools and enjoy discovering the new world of clear waters. The best beaches for families with children are Alagadi Beach, Acapulco Beach and Ferrara Beach.
Water sports
Maybe you are one of the people who travel to an island country with the purpose of water sports. In this case, you prefer to use your time as much as possible to try a variety of water sports and entertainment. Surfing, diving, pedalos, sailing, jet skiing, kite surfing and parasailing are just some of the options you can experience on your trip to North Cyprus.
horse riding
Another fun activity you can do in North Cyprus is horse riding. North Cyprus has three riding clubs that can make a fun day out for you. All three clubs also have training so that beginners who are interested in this sport can experience it.
bowling
If you are a fan of bowling, we suggest you try this exciting sport in North Cyprus. Bowling is a great option to spend a few hours of the trip. Whether you are traveling with your family or with your friends, bowling is a good option for you to have fun.
carting
If you are into speed and excitement, add another option of entertainment in North Cyprus, karting, to your entertainment list. The well-equipped karting centers in North Cyprus are ready to raise your adrenaline to the highest level and record a unique experience in your mind. ZET International Karting Track, which has been open since 2000, is one of the centers that has standards beyond the European level.
Travel with Cyprus tour
If, after reading about the sights of North Cyprus, the desire to travel there has taken root in your life and you want to see these beauties in the shortest possible time, choose a Cyprus tour and experience an enjoyable trip while reducing worries such as hotel reservations and plane tickets.
final word
The sights of North Cyprus are so eye-catching and spectacular that they can attract anyone with any taste. In this article, we tried to familiarize you with the sights of North Cyprus and make your journey to this country smoother. We are eager to read your comments about this article and use your experiences about traveling to North Cyprus.
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