Culture of Famagusta. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

The seaport fortress city of Famagusta features an abundance of historical and architectural monuments, which are of great interest for curious tourists. The most beautiful and interesting attraction is Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, the former Saint Nicolas Cathedral. Construction of the cathedral took place at the turn of the 13th-14th centuries. The great Gothic structure is considered one of the most beautiful on the island even nowadays.

In the Middle Ages, the cathedral was converted into a mosque by Turkish invaders; it has received its current name relatively recently, in 1954. At the entrance to the cathedral there is the most important natural landmark, an ancient fig tree. It’s supposed that it was planted during the construction.

The must see sight is the St. Barnabas Monastery. Since the late Middle Ages, it remains one of the most revered holy sites on the island. During the long history, the building has repeatedly changed its appearance. The building got its current look in the 18th century. The part of the monastery is converted into a historical museum that houses unique artifacts and archaeological finds of different ages. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The Othello's Tower built in the 14th century to protect the rapidly developing city has perfectly preserved to this day. After Venetians arrival fortifications were significantly extended and city has served as an artillery base for some time. Many marvelous legends are associated with the fortress; they explain the direct association with the famous Shakespearean character.

Close to the Mustafa Pasha Mosque there is the old post office building built in the 17th century. Once upon a time the building housed a Muslim religious school; lines of the Qur'an carved over the entrance remind about those distant times. The Giovanni Riviera palace named after the famous Venetian governor is noteworthy too. Until now, the only portal with governor’s coat of arms has managed to survive. In the southern part of the city Jambulat Bastion is located; this historic building is converted into the museum. Among its exhibits there are unique historical documents, ceramics, military items and weapons.