Kyrenia

Kyrenia

Kyrenia, known as Girne in Turkish, is often called the jewel of North Cyprus — and for good reason. This charming seaside town combines the vibrant soul of a Mediterranean port with the tranquil rhythm of island life. Surrounded by the turquoise sea to the north and the rugged Kyrenia mountain range to the south, Kyrenia is the cultural and tourism capital of the region, offering a rich blend of history, nature, cuisine, and relaxation.

A Living History by the Sea

At the heart of the town lies the Historic Kyrenia Harbour, often described as the most beautiful port in the entire Mediterranean. Once a bustling center for fishermen and traders, today it is lined with cafes, seafood restaurants, and restored warehouses, many of which now serve as boutique hotels or galleries. As the sun sets behind the mountains, the harbor transforms into a romantic setting, where boats rock gently on the water and lanterns reflect off the sea.

Watching over the harbor is the imposing Kyrenia Castle, a monumental structure that has stood for centuries. Its foundations date back to the Byzantine period, but it was expanded by the Lusignans and fortified by the Venetians. The castle is now a captivating museum that tells the story of the island’s many civilizations. Inside, visitors can explore an array of exhibitions, including:

  • The Church of St. George
  • Reconstructed tombs from the Kirni (Pınarbaşı) archaeological site
  • The Neolithic Vrysi artifacts
  • A 2,300-year-old shipwreck from around 300 BC — one of the oldest recovered ships in the world

The castle’s towers, cisterns, dungeons, and museum halls make it a fascinating stop for history lovers and families alike.

Medieval Wonders in the Mountains

Towering above Kyrenia, nestled into the peaks of the Five Finger Mountains, are some of the most dramatic castles in Cyprus. The most iconic is St. Hilarion Castle, perched at 732 meters above sea level. Legend has it that this fairy-tale fortress inspired Walt Disney’s design for the castle in Snow White. Originally built by monks, it later became a military stronghold during the Crusader period. Exploring its various chambers — including the Royal Palace, Prince John’s Tower, kitchens, storerooms, and cisterns — is like walking through the pages of a medieval adventure.

To the east, the more rugged Buffavento Castle rises above the clouds, offering panoramic views of both coasts. Though less restored, it’s a favorite among hikers and photographers for its raw beauty and commanding presence. Buffavento’s name, meaning “defier of the winds,” suits it perfectly — the climb is steep, but the views are unforgettable.

Sacred Spaces and Ancient Villages

Kyrenia is also rich in spiritual and cultural heritage. One of its architectural masterpieces is Bellapais Abbey, a 13th-century monastery and one of the best-preserved examples of Gothic architecture in the Eastern Mediterranean. Located just above the town of Bellapais, the abbey overlooks the sea and offers a peaceful setting for reflection or simply enjoying a classical concert under the stars — performances are held here regularly.

Other noteworthy sites in and around Kyrenia include:

  • The Church of the Archangelos Michael and Icon Museum, housing an impressive collection of Orthodox religious art
  • The Antiphonitis Church, known for its rare 12th-century frescoes
  • The haunting ruins of the Sourp Magar Armenian Monastery, hidden in the forested hills
  • The ancient city of Lambousa, once a prosperous coastal settlement during the Roman and early Christian periods

Nature and Flora

Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to Alevkaya and the Cyprus Herbarium, located in the mountains east of Kyrenia. This area is a biodiversity hotspot where you can find Cyprus orchids, rare endemic plants, and aromatic herbs that grow nowhere else on Earth. Springtime in Alevkaya is particularly magical, when wildflowers blanket the landscape and the air is thick with the scent of pine and citrus.

A Town to Experience, Not Just Visit

Kyrenia is more than just a collection of sights — it’s a place to experience with all the senses. Stroll along the seafront promenade with an ice cream, sip strong Turkish coffee in a shaded courtyard, or browse through markets selling olive oil, handicrafts, and handwoven textiles. The town’s pace is unhurried, yet full of life — a perfect balance for those seeking both adventure and calm.