Famagusta is a city that has it all: history, culture, nature, and entertainment. It is one of the most fascinating and diverse cities in North Cyprus, with a rich and turbulent past that spans centuries and civilizations. Whether you are interested in ancient ruins, medieval castles, Ottoman mosques, or modern resorts, Famagusta has something for you. In this blog post, we will show you some of the best things to do in Famagusta and why you should visit this amazing city.
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Explore the ancient city of Salamis
One of the most impressive and important archaeological sites in North Cyprus is the ancient city of Salamis, which was once the capital of Cyprus and a major port and trade center. The city was founded by the Greeks in the 11th century BC and was later ruled by the Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Crusaders, and Venetians. The city was destroyed by earthquakes and raids and was eventually abandoned in the 7th century AD.
Today, you can explore the ruins of temples, baths, theaters, statues, and mosaics that testify to the city’s glory and splendor. You can also visit the nearby Salamis Necropolis, which is a large cemetery with tombs and sarcophagi dating from different periods.
Admire the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque (St. Nicholas Cathedral)
One of the most prominent and beautiful landmarks in Famagusta is the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque (St. Nicholas Cathedral), which was originally a Gothic cathedral built by the Crusaders in the 14th century. The cathedral was dedicated to Saint Nicholas and was the coronation place of the kings of Jerusalem. It was converted into a mosque in 1571 by the Ottomans, who added a minaret and changed some of the features.
The mosque is still in use today and is open to visitors who respect the dress code and prayer times. The mosque is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, with its high vaulted ceilings, pointed arches, stained glass windows, and carved stone details.
Visit the ghost town of Varosha
One of the most intriguing and haunting attractions in Famagusta is the ghost town of Varosha, which was once a popular tourist resort but was abandoned after the Turkish invasion in 1974. The town was fenced off by the Turkish army and has remained untouched ever since.
You can see the eerie sight of empty hotels, shops, and houses that are frozen in time, with personal belongings, furniture, and cars still inside. You can also see the signs of decay and nature reclaiming the town, with overgrown vegetation, broken windows, and crumbling walls. You can only view the ghost town from a distance, as it is forbidden to enter the area. However, there are plans to reopen the town in the future.
Enjoy the sun and sea at one of the many beaches
Famagusta is blessed with some of the best beaches in North Cyprus, with golden sand, clear water, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. visiting beaches is one of the top best things to do in Famagusta. You can swim, snorkel, surf, or relax on one of the many beaches in Famagusta, such as Silver Beach, Glapsides Beach, or Bafra Public Beach. You can also find some facilities and services on the beaches, such as sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, cafes, or bars. Some of the beaches also have water sports activities, such as jet skiing, parasailing, or banana boating.
Learn about the culture and heritage of Famagusta at one of the museums
Famagusta has a rich and diverse culture and heritage that reflects its history and people. You can learn more about it by visiting one of the museums in Famagusta, such as the Famagusta City Museum, which displays artifacts and exhibits from different periods of Famagusta’s history, from ancient times to modern times. You can also visit the Namik Kemal Dungeon Museum, which is dedicated to the life and works of a famous Turkish poet who was imprisoned there for writing a patriotic play. You can also visit the Canbulat Museum, which is located in a bastion that was named after an Ottoman commander who died defending Famagusta against the Venetians.
Visit the Othello Castle and learn about its history and legend
One of the most historic and impressive castles in Famagusta is the Othello Castle, which is named after Shakespeare’s famous play. The castle was built by the Lusignans in the 14th century and later modified by the Venetians. It was used as a fortress and a prison and witnessed many battles and sieges.
The castle is now a popular tourist attraction and a cultural heritage site. You can visit the castle and see its towers, walls, dungeons, and courtyards. You can also learn about its history and legend, which inspired Shakespeare to write his tragic story of love, jealousy, and betrayal.
Conclusion: What are you waiting for?
Famagusta is a city that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors and residents alike. It has a rich history, culture, and natural beauty that will captivate you. It has a variety of attractions and activities that will suit your taste and preference. It is also a great place to live or invest in, as it has a growing economy, a friendly community, and a high quality of life. in this article we mentioned some of best things to do in Famagusta.
There are several benefits of living in North Cyprus, you can read the article about best areas to live in North Cyprus to know more about its cities. If you are interested in finding your dream home in a heavenly island in the mediterranean, you should check out cyprusify.com, a real estate website that offers a wide range of properties for sale in North Cyprus. Cyprusify helps you find the best deals, compare prices, and contact sellers easily. You can also browse through our blog posts to learn more about the lifestyle, culture, and attractions of North Cyprus. Contact us today and discover the beauty and potential of Famagusta.
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