Article Kyrenie (Girne)
An important port with a medieval castle
The city of Girne (Greek: Kyrenia) is located in the middle of the northern coast of Cyprus. In ancient times, there was one of the city-states, which later in the Middle Ages became a very well-fortified port. Even today, it is the most important port of the Northern Cyprus Republic of Tue. Interestingly, about 6 km west of the city, Turkish troops landed in 1974 and then divided into Cyprus. There is a memorial on the landing site.
Old port
Today, it is the most attractive old port for tourists, in which many small boats are moored. The new port, where ships arrive from Turkey, is located about 1.5 km east.
Medieval castle
The old port is dominated in the eastern part by a medieval fortress from the 16th century. Inside, it is possible to see the chapel from the 12th century and the shipwreck of the oldest known merchant ship in the world. It sank 2,300 years ago and was not found until the 1970s near Kyrenia.
Promenade
It is very pleasant to walk along the promenade around the old port and go to one of the many local pubs.
Tourism
Kyrenia, along with Famagusta, is one of the busiest places in the otherwise mostly deserted Northern Cyprus.
Old Town
With plenty of time, it's worth turning out of the busy harbor and looking at the local typical buildings.
Articles nearby
Giga List: The most interesting places in Northern Cyprus
After the partition of Cyprus, tourism in the north controlled by Turkey almost disappeared. Although it has started to develop… continue reading
