The scene of Shakespeare's famous tragedy
On the coast of Famagusta, a beautifully restored fortress, called the Othello Citadel, rises above the harbor. The castle was built between 1285 and 1324 in the Lusitanian period to protect the adjacent port. In 1492, the Venetians were rebuilt into the current form of an artillery fortress.
Othello
The name Othell's Castle is derived from a mention in Shakespaer's tragedy written in 1603, where he speaks of the port of Cyprus and its governor, Christopher Moore. He strangled his beloved Desdem in the game right inside the castle. Moore was the governor of Cyprus from 1505 to 1508. The castle was named after the British by Othello during their colonial rule over the island.
Extensive courtyard
In the middle of the fortress is a large rectangular courtyard, from which one enters a large hall, refectory and living space.
Castle moat and towers
The castle was protected by a moat and a wall, which was strengthened by eight round towers. To date, only four have survived.
Entrance gate
The marble relief above the entrance gate depicts a Venetian winged lion and the name of Nicolo Foscarini, who rebuilt the castle tower.
Beautifully restored interiors
The castle would be renovated in 2014. The large hall, which houses an exhibition about the castle and its reconstruction, is definitely worth attention.
Hallways
Inside the castle there are many corridors that lead to individual firing positions.
City View
From the castle walls there is a nice view of the historic city of Famagusta.
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