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Kantara Castle
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Kantara Castle is located at the eastern end of the Kyrenia mountain range, perched at an elevation of 630 meters above sea level. It was likely established in the 10th century by the Byzantines as a lookout post against Arab pirate raids. Alongside Buffavento and St. Hilarion castles, it formed a robust defensive line across the northern coast. In 1191, Isaac Comnenus, the last Byzantine ruler of Cyprus, surrendered here to the forces of Richard the Lionheart. During the Lusignan period in the 13th and 14th centuries, the castle was extensively remodeled and served as a retreat for royalty and nobility. The Venetians dismantled parts of the fortress in 1525 as they shifted their defensive priorities to coastal fortifications. The ruins remain well-preserved, providing expansive views of the Mesaoria plain and the Karpas peninsula.
- Location: Cyprus
- Top sights: Kantara Castle · Vourni · Kaplca chipre
- Nearby: Spathariko (17 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 | 22 | 26 | 30 | 30 | 28 | 25 | 20 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 75 | 49 | 29 | 17 | 14 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 10 | 24 | 42 | 83 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Kantara Castle is a mountain fortress in the Pentadaktylos range, preserved as ruins. You can explore the walls and towers outdoors and enjoy the spectacular views.
Typical hours
The castle ruins are usually freely accessible during daylight hours. There are no fixed hours, but travel should be done during daylight.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the castle grounds, offering fantastic panoramic shots. For the best photos, use early morning or late afternoon hours.
Time needed
A visit to the castle takes about an hour to walk around the entire ruin and enjoy the viewpoints. Allow extra time for the winding road journey.
Combine with
Kantara Castle can be combined with the other two castles in the Pentadaktylos range (Buffavento and St. Hilarion). A day trip along the mountain range is recommended.
Getting there
The castle is only accessible by car, as it is high in the mountains. The road is winding and narrow in parts - drive carefully. Parking is available near the entrance.
Insider tip
Bring binoculars to enjoy the view of Cyprus's north coast. The wind can be strong on the mountain, so take a jacket even in summer.
Geography
Facts
- Positioned at a strategic altitude of 630 meters above sea level.
- Seized by Richard the Lionheart's forces in May 1191.
- Historically noted for having 101 rooms within its complex.
- Decommissioned as a military fort by the Venetians in 1525.
- The name is derived from the Arabic word 'Qantara', meaning bridge.
- Withstood a significant siege in 1229 during the War of the Lombards.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Kantara Castle (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Kantara Castle located?
It is the easternmost of the three castles in the Pentadaktylos mountains in Northern Cyprus.
How is the view from Kantara?
It provides a fantastic view of the Karpas Peninsula and the Famagusta Bay.
How difficult is the climb to the castle?
The path is well-maintained and less steep than at Bufavento Castle.
What is the history of Kantara?
It was built by the Byzantines for defense against Arab pirates.
Is there an entrance fee for Kantara?
Yes, a small fee (about 4-5 Euro) is charged.
Kantara Castle: where is it located?
Kantara Castle is located in Cyprus.
Kantara Castle: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kantara Castle, Vourni, Kaplca chipre.
Kantara Castle: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Nov.
Kantara Castle: why is it worth visiting?
Kantara Castle is located at the eastern end of the Kyrenia mountain range, perched at an elevation of 630 meters above sea level.
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