Kyrenia, Girne

Kyrenia is founded in the 10th Century BC. , by Achaean settlers and was for many Centuries one of the 10 Kingdoms of Cyprus. In the 7th Century it was fortified by Byzantine who built the original Castle later expanded first by the Lusignans and then by the Venetians.

Under Ottomans the town had remained a minor port. The British built a harbour and a Quay. Under British Empire the Town was an en-route resting place for officers, captains and their families for its picturesque situation, its beautiful harbour and leisurely and romantic atmosphere.

The Town still retains its character with many restaurants and bars by the Harbour and small hotels spreading east and west of the town, along the coastline which raises to form an impressive backdrop with the mountains behind. The region now an attractive holiday resort boasts many historic sites worth visiting.

Among these the Harbour Castle and the Shipwreck Museum, The St. Hilarion Castle, The Bellapais Abbey, the Folk Art and the Icon Museums are the most important.

Click the following links for places of interest in Kyrenia

Ancient Graveyard of Girne

Antiphonitis Church
Bellapais Abbey
Saint Hilarion Castle
The Castle of Girne (Kyrenia)
The Church of Arkhangelos
The Kyrenia Museum of Folk Art
The Museum of Public Arts
The Museum of the Sunken Ship