Kyrenia
Kyrenia has now outgrown the original small harbour with its imposing Venetian castle. The immediate harbour area with its quayside restaurants is a bit of a tourist trap, but makes for dining in style.
The harbour from the battlements.
A traditional Turkish gulet
Though a fort existed here for over 2,000 years, the first historical reference to a castle was when Richard the Lionheart captured it in the 12th Century.
The courtyard is dauntingly large.
There are several massive ramps built by the Venetians after they took possession (in the 15th century) to enable them to move their large cannons to different positions round the castle.
There are lots of dungeons here, some with gruesome displays.
Like many other of the castles in North Cyprus, it is lit up at night. Very romantic.
The best meals we had on this holiday (following glowing recommendations on the net & in our guide book) is just outside the harbour area & is the Kyrenia Tavern. (Tel 815 2799 Turkmen Street No.2, Kyrenia). It is very difficult to find – no menu outside – but well worth the effort – the food was superb. The meals were all freshly cooked by the aged owners. The best “Home Cooking” in Cyprus. On updating my webpages in 2025 I found this photo on the internet & immediately recognised the charming owners. Update – the owners retired in 2015 & their son is now running the restaurant. I wish him all the best for the restaurant.
