Originally a fishing village during the 13th century,
Famagusta rapidly evolved to become a major
mediaeval commercial centre between east and
west, and a residence for rich merchants who built
many of the monuments seen today, within the
impressive walls built by the Venetians, to protect
the wealth of the city from hostile invaders, Lusig-
nans crowned their kings in the famous St Nicho-
las Cathedral which now dominates the oid city,
with its original gothic architecture, superbly pre-
served by the Ottoman Turks who added a minaret
and converted the interior into a mosque, Fama-
gusta can offer a wealth of treasure for the cul-
turally orientated visitor, such as the antique Ro-
man city of Salamis, Othello's Tower, Bronze age
ruins of Alasia and Engomi, the monastery of St
Barnabas, now an Icon museum, and the Kantara
Castle, Apart from a rich and varied history, in this
warmest part of Cyprus, lie miles of unspoilt and
uncrowded beaches, Several bars and restaurants
along the coast serve the best of fresh traditional
and continental dishes as well as the local brandy,
raki and beer. You will enjoy walking the narrow
streets of the old city, deep within the safety of
the historic walls, where hundreds of shopkeepers
display their selection of local arts and crafts.
The suberb coastline of Northern Cyprus combines
natural unspoiled beauty with a rich and varied
history. This is why Kyrenia is one of the most pic-
turesque towns in the Mediterranean, situated
in a peaceful setting 2000 ft below the castle of
St Hilarion, perched atop the rocks of Besparmak
mountain range. It's tiny crescent harbour still
retains it's orginal character, and is dominated by
an imposing 7th century castle which houses the
famous Shipwreck Museum. There, you can see
examples of the ancient cargo recovered with a
shipwreck, about one mile from Kyrenia Harbour,
believed to have sunk in the year 300BC. This
charming Venetain 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 accommodation, some on the attractive
seafront and some on the sleepy foothills of the
mountain rnage. Each type of accommodation has
its own charming character and all selected to rep-
resent the best value and standard in their class.
Kyrenia has retained it's charm and is a favourite of
many of it's visitors.
Bellapais is an extraordinary village nestled in the
foothills of the Kyrenia five finger mountain range.
The village is well known for being the inspiration
behind the writer Lawrence Durrell's famous book
"Bitter Lemons of Cyprus" an autobiography of the
time he spent living on the island between 1953-
1956.
Bellapais is also home to the magnificent Bel-
lapais Abbey, the monastery is a fine example of
Gothic architecture. Construction is thought to
have begun between 1198 and 1205 with more
sections being added after 1267 and after 1324.
The Monastery is also known as the `Peace Mon-
astery' from the French name for it `Abbaye de la
paix'. Visitors to the Monastery can enjoy some
excellent examples of Gothis art including the re-
fectory and dormitories. Take the time to explore
the marble tombs in the courtyard and marvel at
the breathtaking view of Kyrenia below and the
western coastline.
Kyrenia
Famagusta
Bellapais
Kyrenia is the prettiest town on the island, a tran-
quil seaside resort with a picturesque Old Harbour.
If uncrowded beaches are your priority, then the
Famagusta region is for you.
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Call us for more information 0203 150 0352