Places to Visit

Significant Landmarks of Northern Cyprus

More and more travelers are discovering the cultural and natural beauty of Northern Cyprus. The island’s inexpensive apartments make it attractive for those who love secluded beach holidays and long walks. Popular among tourists and locals are the cities of Lefkosa, Guzel’yurt, Famagusta, and Kyrenia.

Must-See Places

It is hard to list all the sights of the country, but here are some of the most famous and picturesque:

• Fortress in Kyrenia: Built by the Byzantines in the tenth century, with later additions by the Lusignans and Venetians. The fortress has always served the city’s inhabitants because Kyrenia has never been stormed by enemy troops. Visitors can explore:
  • The Torture Instruments Museum
  • The Shipwreck Museum
  • Various military installations from different eras
  • An ancient dwelling museum from the Neolithic period

• Hilarion’s Palace: Located in Girne city on a clifftop, offering picturesque mountain views from a height of 730 meters above sea level.

• Karmi Village: A charming village on a hill with cobbled streets and beautiful limestone stairs. A must-see church with an icon museum is located here.

• Arab Ahmet Pasha Mosque: An Ottoman period architectural gem built during the Ottoman-Venetian wars. Nearby are marble burials of famous Turkish Cypriots and a picturesque fountain.

• Panaya Kanakaria Church: Known for the Virgin Mary fresco dating back to 500 BC. This valuable Christian artifact was taken to America but has since been returned to the island after lengthy legal battles.

• Herbarium: Home to up to 1,500 unique plants, including over 50 varieties of orchids. The herbarium is open year-round.

• Large Inn (Buyuk Han): Located in Nicosia, this famous landmark of the capital features architecture that likely used stone from other destroyed buildings. The first floor was for travelers’ belongings, while the second floor housed the guests.

• St. Magar Monastery: Once the main religious center for the Armenian community of Cyprus. Even if you are not associated with Armenia, the medieval architecture is worth seeing.

• Buffavento Mountain Castle: Part of a complex of three mountain castles built by the Byzantines as part of the island’s defense system against Arab attacks.

• Apostle Barnabas Monastery: Founded by Saint Barnabas, the founder of the Greek Orthodox Church independent of Byzantium. It attracts many pilgrims from Greece and the Greek part of the island.

Natural Attractions

Tourists and Cypriots alike enjoy the Kyrenia Mountains area, especially the Beshparmak peak, which resembles five fingers. Here, you can breathe in the mountain air and taste local cuisine in authentic cafes at the base.

• Century-Old Olive Grove: Home to around 2,000 trees, some of which are 800 years old. The grove is protected by the European Union.

• Mandarin Plantations: A must-visit, especially in winter for their citrus smell and in summer for the scent of flowers.

The cultural heritage and natural attractions are additional reasons to consider buying property in Northern Cyprus.

Contact us, and we will help you purchase your dream property in this beautiful region!