Introduction
Perched at approximately 630 m above sea level on the Pentadaktylos (Five Finger) mountain range, Kantara Castle stands as the easternmost of Cyprus’s three great hilltop fortresses. Originally built—most plausibly—during the Byzantine era, it formed a signalling axis with Buffavento and St. Hilarion, guarding against coastal raids and controlling the broad Mesaoria plain below Wikipedia.
History
While archaeological evidence suggests a Byzantine foundation (possibly as early as the 11th century), the first written record of Kantara comes in 1191, when Richard the Lionheart seized it from Isaac Komnenos during his Cyprus campaign Visit North Cyprus. Soon afterward, the Lusignan kings of Jerusalem purchased the island and expanded the castle’s defences. In the 14th century, James I and Peter II of Cyprus reinforced its walls and added garrison quarters and vast cisterns. By 1519, Venetian engineers deemed Kantara obsolete; its garrison was withdrawn by 1525, and the fortress was largely dismantled by 1560 Wikipedia.
Architectural Highlights
- Strategic Layout: A steep approach leads to a horseshoe‑shaped barbican and portcullis, then into the main gate, flanked by twin towers named Nicolas and Faucherre.
- Cistern Network: With no natural springs, rainwater harvesting via roof drains fed six cisterns—one massive medieval reservoir outside the curtain walls and another repurposed prison in the undercroft Wikipedia.
- Garrison Chambers: Late-14th‑century barracks line the 120 m curtain wall, each room connected by latrines and lit by narrow crossbow‑splayed embrasures.
- Queen’s Chamber Ruins: At the summit lie the remains of a vaulted chapel and royal apartments—once accessible via a refined Gothic window overlooking the Mediterranean Wikipedia.
Visiting Tips
- Getting There: From Kyrenia, follow the scenic mountain road east for about 45 km, then a short dirt track to the site parking Visit North Cyprus.
- Hours & Entry: Open daily (dawn to dusk), with a small admission fee; students and seniors receive reduced rates.
- Best Time: Spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October) avoids summer heat and maximizes wildflower viewing.
- What to Bring: Sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera—paths are rocky, and shade is scarce Tripadvisor.
Clinging to its rugged ridge and overlooking both Mesaoria and the distant Mediterranean, Kantara Castle offers an evocative journey through Byzantine diplomacy, Crusader ambition, and Venetian decline. Whether you’re tracing its battered battlements, exploring its hidden cisterns, or simply savouring the panoramic views, this mountain fortress rewards every step with history and spectacle.