Overview:

Buffavento Castle is a medieval castle in Cyprus, located on a mountain peak nearly 900m above sea level. It is one of the three castles guarding the Kyrenia Mountain range, one of the important defensive fortifications guarding the northern coastline of Cyprus. The castle is thought to have been built by the Byzantines in the 10th century. It is in a reasonably good state of preservation, despite some renovations to its interior in the 19th century. Today, Buffavento is an important tourist attraction in Cyprus. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Cyprus
Prominent Features:

- Buffavento Castle is located near Kyrenia on the eastern side of Cyprus, high up in the Kyrenia mountain range. - It dates back to the 11th century, when it was part of the Byzantine defense system. - The castle was originally composed of three cylindrical stone towers connected by fortifications. - It was an important fortress in the classical Byzantine period, but was abandoned in the 16th century. - In recent years, it has become a popular tourist destination. - Visitors can explore the castle, the surrounding nature, and the remains of the ancient village nearby. - A challenging hiking trail to the castle, marked with red arrows, begins in the nearby village of Kandoura. - Once at the summit, visitors will be rewarded with captivating views of the Mediterranean and the city of Kyrenia. This national monument of Cyprus portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The history of Buffavento Castle in Cyprus dates back to the 12th century. It was built by the Byzantines as part of a larger defensive system to protect the island from invasion from both sides - the sea, and the mainland. The castle was occupied during the Crusades in the early 13th century, but when the island fell to the Ottoman Empire during the 16th century, the castle was abandoned. In the 19th century, the British took control of the island, and Buffavento Castle was partially restored and became a tourist attraction. Today, it remains a popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The castle is known for its impressive views of the north coast of the island and its magnificent architecture. You must visit one of these historical places in Cyprus on your Cyprus tour

Interesting facts:

1. Buffavento Castle is located on a rocky hill top at 925 meters above sea level and is one of the three castles that used to form a protective chain around the Kyrenia mountain range, north of Nicosia. 2. The citadel has three sides and its entrance is in an elevated position from which it is possible to control the access path to the castle walls. 3. According to an inscription on the castle walls, it was built between two dates- 964-966 AD- while Chronicles note that it was originally built by the Byzantine Emperor, Nikephoros II Phokas in 965 AD as a defence against the Arab invasion. 4. Buffavento Castle is believed to be the highest of the three Kyrenia castles and its exact purpose is still unknown. 5. In the past, it has been used as a military stronghold, a monastery, a prison and a secure refuge for local people fleeing from danger. 6. The castle is still in remarkably good condition and there is a small chapel at the main entrance to the castle courtyard, although its roof has long since gone. 7. Buffavento Castle is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Cyprus and it was featured in the famous video game, Assassin's Creed Revelations. Visit one of the famous monuments of Cyprus with your friends and family.