KYRENIA:
The superb coastline of Northern Cyprus combines natural unspoild beauty with a rich and varied history . This is why Kyrenia is one of the most picturesque towns in the Mediterranean , situated in a peaceful, setting 2000ft below the castle of st Hilarion , perched atop the rocks of the Five Finger mountain range . Its tiny crescent harbour still retains its original character , and is dominated by an imposing 7th century castle which houses the the famous Shipwreck Museum.If you want to visit the Five Finger Mountain you should hire Suzuki Vitara 4X4
There , you can see examples of the ancient cargo recovered with a shipwreck , about one mile from Kyrenia Harbour , believed to have sunk in yhe year 300BC.This charming venetian harbour is now the ideal place to slow down to the relaxing Cypriot pace , and watch life go by from one of the harbour cafes or restaurants , which offer something for everyone . For those with an eye for the cultural excellence , a visit to Bellapais Abbey will offer unforgettable moments . An ideal resort for holidays , Kyrenia offers a wide range of accomodation , some on the attractive seafront and some on the sleepy foothills of the mountain range . Each type of accomodation has its own charming character and all selected to represent the best value and standard in their class. Kyrenia has retained its charm and is a favourite of its visitors.
It is claimed that Kyrenia was established by the Akas migrated from peloponnesus in the 10th century BC. According to a claim , Akas named the city Kyrenia after a mountain in their motherland . Anothr point of view claimed that the first settlers of the Kyrenia were the Phoenicians who were established trade colonies on the coast of the island in the 9th century BC. In the Roman sources , the name of city that was plundered a few times by Arabs and pirates in the Byzantine period shows similarity with the general history of the island .
Old Kyrenia Harbor
The horse-shoe shaped harbor is the focal point of the town .The historical Kyrenia harbor , with its colorfulnfishing boats and yachts , and with its lively bars and cafes , is the heart of Kyrenia both for locals and the tourists .
Bellapais Abbey
The abbey was built between 1158 and 1205 then enlarged and finised between 1267 and 1284 during the reign of the French King Hugh 3. its a spectacular example of Gothic Architecture isn Cyprus , with overlooking of the whole northern coastline of Cyprus as well as spectacular mountain view.
St. Hilarion Castle
Thw castle is trought to be named after a saint who escaped from jerusalem after the Arabic conquest and moved to Cyprus where he lived and died in a cave on top of the mountains . In the 10th century a church and a monastery were built at the site . During the lusignan period the monastery was turned into a castle.
Kyrenia Castle
The impressive Kyrenia Castle still in perfect condition in the northeast of the city on the eastern corner of the harbor. Was built in 7th century by the Byzantines in order to protect the city against Arab raids . Additional construction during louisianan and venetian periods further enlarged and fortified the castle.
Antiphonitis Church
The fresco- covered walls of Antiphonitis Church are very interesting . The church , dedicated to virgin Mary , was built in the 7th century however the narthex to its west and the gallery to its south were added by the lusignans.
Shipwreck Museum
The shipwreck displayed within the Kyrenia castle , is the oldest shipwreck ever discovred . The findings suggest hat thf ship was a syrian commercial ship which sank due to a storm in 300 BC.
Buffavento Castle
The Buffavento castle , which was origginlly contructed as a watchtower by the Byzantines and then coverted into a castle by the Lusignans is at a summit 950 metres from sea level .its construction date is unknown.
The Museum OF Public Arts
Within the historycal yacht port of Kyrenia , the house of the 18th century noe serves as museum . Olive oil presses , primitive ploughs, cubes, a wooden threshing sled , agricultural tools a loom for weaving , pulley wheels are exhidited in this museum . At the upstairs through wooden stairs from entrance hall, the ancient garments , table cloths head scarfs , woollen socks , wedding dresses , carved trousseau chests , silver embroidery bed covers , cushions bedsteads wooden boards and window roll-down shutters are also exhibited .
