Timeless port of Kyrenia

Kyrenia, the port city on the northern coast of Cyprus, is a charming city overlooking the Mediterranean coast of Anatolia, and today, as throughout history, debates over its political status overshadow its rich history and cultural life. But for yachtsmen, the freest travelers on earth, there are no insurmountable obstacles. Kyrenia is one of the most exciting destinations when entering on a boat.

Due to its strategic location, we are in one of the most discoverable points of the Eastern Mediterranean, which has been home to states such as Hittite, Assyrian, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Persian, Umayyad, Crusader, Venetian, Genoese and Ottoman. Vulnerable to pirate raids, repeatedly plundered, remembered for sieges and conquests, and bearing the scars of each, it is the refuge of true seafarers, far from all land connections.

The history of Kyrenia dates back to the 3rd millennium BC. In ancient times, it was used as an important trade center by the Phoenicians and Romans. After the conquest of Cyprus by Richard the Lionheart in 1191, its strategic importance increased after it came under British rule. The fact that Nicosia became an important trade center after the Venetians fortified Nicosia with walls, became a trade center under the Latin kings in the 12th-16th centuries, and became one of the most important export and transit ports after the Ottoman conquest are proof of the richness of its past.

Some important buildings were built in Kyrenia, which came under Ottoman control in 1571. These include Kyrenia Castle and several mosques. The 16th century castle offers visitors a magnificent view of the sea. The Kyrenia Shipwreck Museum, where the remains of an ancient ship are exhibited, also attracts visitors. Since the division of Cyprus in 1974, the city has been under the administration of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

Kyrenia has become a popular destination for both local and foreign tourists. The city is remarkable for both its historical and modern buildings. The port area is full of restaurants, cafes and shops. It is also known for its universities and cultural events.

The mountains and beaches around Kyrenia offer ideal areas for hiking and water sports. Alagadi Beach and Escape Beach are popular spots for sunbathing and swimming. Kyrenia, which hosts many festivals throughout the year, also offers art lovers pleasant opportunities with events such as the Cyprus Music Festival and Kyrenia Classical Music Festival. The local cuisine is naturally famous for Mediterranean flavors. Fresh seafood is accompanied by kebabs and traditional appetizers. The port city, which offers many activities for both history enthusiasts and vacationers, is also an archaeological site. While amphora finds dating back to the 8th and 7th centuries BC found off the coast of Lebanon in the Eastern Mediterranean prove the commercial power of Cyprus, recent excavations have revealed that wine was produced in Kyrenia six thousand years ago.

For many people, the most attractive feature of a holiday in Kyrenia is the crystal clear sea.

The Beylerbeyi Mosque in Bellapais and the serenity of the historical port are impressive enough to make every first time visitor say “Why didn’t I come here before?”. Bellapais Monastery and Antiphonitis Church are other prominent points of interest. The majority prefer Kyrenia for summer vacation because of its luxury SPA hotels. With a climate that has a cooling wind even in the middle of summer, a sea with a color similar to the Caribbean, an atmosphere that blends Indian, British, Turkish and Greek cultures, and residents who have left the world we know and chosen this corner, it is such a unique spot that it is hard to understand why it is not well known due to politics. However, if the gentlemen in ties could agree among themselves, it would be very easy for it to be known as the queen of the Mediterranean.

As you question what is what in Kyrenia, it becomes indispensable to quote from the Odyssey and the Iliad and meet the legends of mythological gods about this place. Important events and personalities from the Egyptian, Assyrian, Persian and Roman eras seep into the memory one after another, while the journey of St. Paul, the apostle of Jesus Christ, and the history of Christianity come alive in the mind.

The conflicts between the island’s two communities of Hellenic and Turkish origin, which culminated in war in 1964 and 1974, have created problems that are still not fully resolved today. Cyprus is currently divided into two separate countries with a sharp border between them. The economy on the island is based on tourism for both sides. This border prevents Kyrenia from becoming a world-class port city. It can be said that this does not affect nightlife at all. The entertainment that continues until the early hours of the morning in the beach clubs is intertwined with the city center. You should also give a chance to delicious cheese varieties, especially halloumi. Peach kebab and lamb tandori, one of the flavors of Cypriot cuisine, are also a must. Do not forget to visit Zeytinlik Village for a delicious breakfast with organic products.

For many people, the most attractive feature of a vacation in Kyrenia is the crystal clear sea. Those who enjoy the sun and sea at Kordonboyu Beach near the city center go windsurfing at Acapulco Beach. Alagadi Beach is also famous for its Caretta carettas that accompany swimmers. Those who want to try a different beach every day can add Mare Monte to the list. There are also historical buildings from the Port of Lambousa near this beach. Kervansaray Beach in the west of the city offers a comfortable experience with its calm atmosphere.

The shops around the port have the capacity to meet every need. Olive oil and traditional confectionery from local producers are worth a try. It is also possible to browse Kyrenia’s famous rugs and handicraft products.