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Famagusta Gate
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Landmark
Famagusta Gate, originally named Porta Giuliana, is the most magnificent and well-preserved of the three historic gates in the Venetian walls of Nicosia. It was built in 1567 according to the designs of engineer Giulio Savorgnano and served as the primary entrance to the city from the east. Architecturally, the gate is highly impressive, featuring a long, vaulted tunnel that leads through the massive city walls and opens into a large circular dome. The facade is adorned with Venetian coats of arms and inscriptions that bear witness to the power of the Republic of Venice during that era. After a long period of decay, the gate was extensively restored in 1981, receiving the 'Europa Nostra' award for heritage conservation soon after. Today, Famagusta Gate is utilized as a municipal cultural center, providing a unique space for art exhibitions, concerts, and various cultural events. The exceptional acoustics within the tunnel and its historic atmosphere make it one of the most evocative venues in the city. As a monumental gateway, it connects Cyprus's illustrious past as a Venetian outpost with the lively cultural life of the present day.
- Location: Cyprus
- Top sights: Art Gallery · Centre of Visual Arts and Research · National Struggle Museum
- Nearby: Latsia (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 14 | 16 | 19 | 23 | 27 | 30 | 30 | 28 | 24 | 20 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 72 | 42 | 23 | 13 | 9 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 6 | 15 | 30 | 71 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Famagusta Gate is one of the three historic gates of the Venetian fortifications of Nicosia and can be viewed from outside at any time. The interior is sometimes used for cultural events and accessible then.
Typical hours
The gate is freely accessible at all times from outside. For the interior, if open, hours usually follow those of the city administration or event schedules - check on site.
Photography
Photographing the gate from outside is possible anytime and yields great shots. Inside, photography is usually allowed, but events may have restrictions.
Time needed
The exterior of the gate can be seen in 10 to 15 minutes. If the interior is open, allow 20 to 30 minutes.
Combine with
The gate sits along the Venetian city wall and combines perfectly with a walk on the wall and visits to the other gates (Kyrenia Gate, Paphos Gate). Nicosia old town is also within walking distance.
Getting there
Famagusta Gate is located in the eastern part of the old town, easily reachable on foot from the center. Limited parking is available in the square in front of the gate.
Insider tip
Visit the gate in the late afternoon when the light casts nice shadows on the stone walls. If lucky, an exhibition may be on inside, offering extra insight.
Geography
Facts
- The gate was completed in the year 1567.
- It was originally named Porta Giuliana after a Venetian governor.
- The design was created by the engineer Giulio Savorgnano.
- In 1981, its restoration was awarded the Europa Nostra prize.
- The gate features a vaulted passage that is 35 meters long.
- Today, it serves as a municipal center for arts and culture.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Famagusta Gate (8)
National Struggle Museum🏛 museum
NiMAC, Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre (Offices)
Chyisaliniotissa Church
NiMAC, Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre (Exhibitions)
Theatro Ena
Famagusta Gate
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Famagusta Gate?
It is the largest and most magnificent of the three gates in Nicosia's Venetian walls.
Can you visit the gate?
The gate now serves as a cultural center and can be entered during exhibitions or events.
Where exactly is the gate located?
It is located in the eastern part of Nicosia's old town, near the city walls.
Are there parking spaces nearby?
There are several public parking spaces along the moats outside the city walls.
Is the access barrier-free?
The exterior area is level, but inside there are some cobblestones and steps.
Famagusta Gate: where is it located?
Famagusta Gate is located in Cyprus.
Famagusta Gate: what is there to see?
Highlights include Art Gallery, Centre of Visual Arts and Research, National Struggle Museum.
Famagusta Gate: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Nov.
Famagusta Gate: why is it worth visiting?
Famagusta Gate, originally named Porta Giuliana, is the most magnificent and well-preserved of the three historic gates in the Venetian walls of Nicosia.
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