Did you know that Famagusta was founded in 300 B.C.? Of late it has turned into a major holiday destination and has a lot to offer to the tourist who comes here.
You can start with Othello’s Tower, which actually is a medieval fort that guards both the harbour and the town. It is named after the famous Venetian governor of 1506. It is also known as the Citadel, because Shakespeare mentioned this in his play ‘Othello’. It is still used today for performances and if you are lucky, you may even catch one. You can take in some great views of the town and harbour from here. The Church of St. George is another historical building that is worth a visit. It was built as an act of opposition to the Roman Catholic and Latin Churches.
From here, head to the outdoors to enjoy the Glapsides beach, which is considered the best in Famagusta. The sea is quite shallow and quite suitable for children. Move on to see the Royal Palace, which was built in the 13th century and was the venue to crown the Kings and Queens of Cyprus. If all this make you hungry, head to Patisserie Petek to enjoy the most delicious pastries you can find here. It’s an experience that will stay with you! Fortified, you can visit the Archaeological Museum and the Monastery of St. Barnabas to view some artefacts from Cyprus. Move on to the ancient city of Salamis-Magusa for a trip back in time. It is said to have been founded in the 11th century BC. The spectacular ruins throw an insight to long lost civilizations. There is a magnificent amphitheatre next to the beautiful blue waters of the Mediterranean that gives an indication of the plays, actors, scenes and audience that thronged here. There is also a gymnasium where people played sports and received instruction for physical and mental well-being from learned teachers.
Move on to the Sinan Pasha Mosque that used to be the church of St. Peter and Paul and was later adapted as a mosque during the Ottoman rule. Later the British used it for storing grains and more recently it was the town hall.
May and September are especially good times to visit Famagusta. There is a vibrant nightlife here and outdoor concerts are held regularly during the holiday season. If you are travelling on your own, getting around on foot may be the best option. Tour operators provide buses to take tourists around. A visit to Famagusta will surely leave you with a lasting memory.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Famagusta? Then below is a selection of apartments in Famagusta and villas in Famagusta that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
