Esentepe North Cyprus
Why Esentepe - Living in Esentepe, North Cyprus
Not many years ago there were very few local farmers were living in Esentepe in North Cyprus. This pretty, elevated town on the northern coast of the Mediterranean island of Cyprus was little known, lesser explored and totally undeveloped '; At 2002 Esentepe has been designated an area of development by the government in North Cyprus therefore a great deal of private and public investment has already gone into the improvement of roads and hard infrastructure such as electric cables and water pipes.

But in just a few short years all that has changed becouse of the new road and the compleqatıon of championship golf course and today Esentepe is one of the most popular places to live for locals and expats alike who want sandy beaches, stunning views and access to a championship golf course and a 500 berth marina at near by Esentepe at Kucuk erenkoy village..

Esentepe has easy access to the resort town of Kyrenia, easy access to Ercan airport, easy access to the Metehan border crossing for links to south Cyprus and all from a location that benefits from some of the very best Cyprus views, the stunning Mediterranean climate and a whole host of tourism based leisure developments that have been constructed for the improvement of the appeal of Northern Cyprus.

NORTHERN CYPRUS LOCATIONS
North Cyrus, Lefke, with nearby Soli dating as far back 700BC and the Palace of Vouni, destroyed by fire in 380BC, was once, one of the four kingdoms of Cyprus. Now mainly a Turkish village with a few facilities for the local villagers and the near by Lefke University is an undiscovered part of Northern Cyprus.

North Cyprus, Guzelyurt is today principally involved in the production of citrus fruit, at one time it was one of the most important cultural regions of Cyprus. In the days of the copper mines, the now disused railway line ran from Guzelyurt to Famagusta. The mines date back to the Roman times. Cyprus derives in name from copper. With the back drop of the snow caped mountains of Trodos and Morfu Bay this area is one of the most beautiful in North Cyprus. Guzelyurt, in origin mainly a Turkish town with banks and a few restaurants belongs to major North Cyprus cities. A good place for shopping in North Cyprus, there is also a very large Municipal garden centre where the produce is inexpensive.

North Cyprus, Camlibel is a small rural village in the North Cyprus Kyrenia Mountains to the west of Kyrenia. Still a mainly traditional Turkish village with. Camlibel is the gate way to the unspoilt splendour of the Morfu Bay.

North Cyprus, Ilgaz, set high in the Kyrenia Mountains is the place to get away from it all. The views of Northern Cyprus beaches and the rolling green valleys make the journey a worth while visit. Growing in popularity there are excellent amenities only a short drive away.

North Cyprus, Baspinar is set high above Lapta with panoramic views of the coast. This quiet location is still a hidden gem. named after the spring which continually flows through the village, it is again well worth a visit.

North Cyprus, Karsiyaka is a picturesque village in North Cyprus near to the sea which enjoys superb views of the Kyrenia Mountain Range. With fine beaches and many established amenities close to hand. Karisyaka continues to develop and is becoming increasingly popular with both locals foreign purchasers.

North Cypus, Lapta was one of the four kingdoms of Cyprus. It is one of the larger villages west of Kyrenia and enjoys the luxury of fresh water springs. Its surroundings constitute one of the most beautiful areas of North Cyprus. Lapta was noted for its many local arts and crafts including pottery, silk and cutlery. In olden days Northern Cyprus Lapta had a large silk industry which was the main source of income for the villagers. An abundance of timber led to the development of another craft of chest making. Mostly painted in black, they are the feature of many houses in Northern Cyprus. The has all the amenities required for the established village of both locals Europeans.

North Cyprus, Alsancak is six miles West of Kyrenia with easy access to North Cyprus beaches and many of the most popular restaurants west of Kyrenia. Increasingly popular with locals and Europeans alike, it is ideally placed for all amenities and offers a fine selection of beaches and entertainment facilities. Established infrastructure and scenic country side make for a perfect residential community.

North Cyprus, Karaoglanoglu is located adjacent to the coast road, just west of Northern Cyprus, Kyrenia. It provides easy access to beaches, bars and restaurants. A popular meeting place are the Friday #8216;crafts produce' market held throughout the year.

North Cyprus, Edremit village is found on the road leading from Karaoglanoglu to Karmi. Over looked by the historic St Hilarion castle, Edremit affords spectacular views over the Mediterranean coastline. With easy access to Kyrenia town centre, the village of Edremit has become an increasingly attractive residential location.

North Cyprus, Karmi / Karaman, is picturesque village situated in the hills west of Kyrenia, just below the Northern Cyprus castle of St Hilarion. Steeped in history, there is still to be found a quant church with white washed walls and a belfry. The village offers magnificent views over the Mediterranean and its mainly European community enjoys mainly established amenities including restaurants, bars and village shops.

North Cyprus, St Hilarion Caste, built in the Byzantine era in the North Cyprus, Kyrenia Mountains is approached from the Nicosia to Kyrenia road. The North Cyprus castle derives its name from a hermit named Hilarion who fled from the Holly Land following the Arab invasion. Richard the Lion Heart rested here on his Crusade to the Holly Land. Steeped in history St Hilarion Castle attracts visitors from all over the world and remains a site of historical importance.

North Cyprus, Zeytinlik. The Turkish name for Olive is Zeytin, this aptly named village is set amongst beautiful Olive Groves, in North Cyprus and hosts the famous annual Olive Festival. With hotels, shops and restaurants Zeytinlik is an established residential location and is only a few minutes drive from the centre of Kyrenia.

North Cyprus Kyrenia, historic horse shoe shaped harbour and Crusader Castle, was once a walled town where the majority of the population lived together within the security of the city walls. Now with its restaurants, bars, boutiques, museums it has the atmosphere of an exciting cosmopolitan town visited by many tourist to North Cyprus. Many government offices are situated here along side the commercial offices of many local business. No visit to Northern Cyprus is complete without wandering the cobbled alleyways and exploring the traditional and modern surroundings. Kyrenia is the hub of all social activities on the splendid Northern Cyprus coastline. Without a doubt, worth its title as the 'Jewel of the Mediterranean'.

North Cyprus, Dogankoy. A small village nestled between North Cyprus, Kyrenia and Bellapais. Although quiet and picturesque, its proximity to Kyrenia makes Dogankoy a ideal residential location.

North Cyprus, Karakum which means 'black sand' is located on the main road, just east of Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus, boasting a small sandy bay, with no black sand. Due its closeness to Kyrenia, Karakum has become a popular location for commercial outlets including super markets, furniture stores and garden centres. Residents of Karakum enjoy a central location and the benefits of its many facilities.

North Cyprus, Bellapais, with its magnificent abbey dating back to the twelfth century, still retains a quiet cense of tranquillity. At present day the abbey is still used to hold many cultural events with its annual music festival growing in stature each year. Its many restaurants and bars are set in unique surroundings. Home of the renowned British author, Lawerence Durell, the house which inspired the famous journal #8216;The Bitter Lemons of Cyprus', continues to be a tourist attraction. Bellapais is one of the premier residential locations in Northern Cyprus, highly sought after by both locals and Europeans.

North Cyprus, Ozankoy is named after the local poet Ozan. With the Kyrenia Mountains as the back drop looking up to the Bellapais Abbey and beautiful views to the North Cyprus beaches and Kyrenia near by, Ozankoy makes for a popular village with all. There is an excellent mixture of cultures with popular restaurants and bars and traditional village shops. A attractive residential location, situated less than five minutes drive from Kyrenia.

North Cyprus, Catalkoy, meaning;forked village is found to the east of North Cyprus, Kyrenia. The village of Catalkoy is second in size only to the village of Lapta. Well established the village extends from the foot hills of the mountains down to the sea. Catalkoy has many bars, restaurants and shops and a wide variety of residential property. Only a short drive from the Championship, 21 hole Korenium Golf Course.

Northern Cyprus, Buffavento Castle is one of the three castles set high in the chain of the Kyrenia mountain range. Ruined as it is, the magnificent position enables you to see the Trodos Mountains on one side and the whole chain of the Kyrenia Mountains on the other. And far across the sea in winter you can see the snow on the Taurus Mountains of Turkey. There are no facilities, but there is a small restaurant back at the main road.

North Cyprus, Kantara Castle is the third and eastern most castle in the defensive chain. Built in the Byzantine period, its name is Arabic meaning "enchantment". The castle is one of the best places in Northern Cyprus to sit and view the surrounding panorama of the Karpaz peninsula. There is a small restaurant at Kantara village.

North Cyprus, Besparmak is a distinctively shaped mountain of North Cyprus Kyrenia Mountain range. Its five peaks resembling the fingers of a hand, has lent its name to the entire range. The mountain lies some 10 miles East of Kyrenia overlooking the main road to Northern Cyprus Famagusta.

North Cyprus, Esentepe stretching along the beautiful coastline east of Kyrenia. Esentepe's importance is growing year on year. The opening of the 21 hole, Championship Korenium Golf Course in 2007 has only strengthened its developing status. The Golf Courses magnificent facilities including club house, fitness centre, beauty salon, bar and restaurant has become a much vaunted attraction for residents and visitors alike. Stretching from the Besparmak Mountains to the glorious Mediterranean coastline, Esentepe boasts traditional village properties and specifically designed residential communities catering for all prospective buyers. Esentepe's importance will only grow as the new yacht marina development gets under way.

North Cyprus, Tatlisu, meaning sweet water's. As you rise up above the sea, the cliff scenery is magnificent and the views of Northern Cyprus mountains and beaches quite breathtaking. From here you can see the north east coast back to Kyrenia and forward in the hazy distance to the great long stretch of the Karpaz peninsula. A fine choice of residential properties compliment Tatlisu's natural beauty.

North Cyprus, Famagusta. Also know as Gazimagusa. Is the main sea port of North Cyprus with history dating history dating back over 3000 years. Dominated by its city walls built by the Lusignan's, Famagusta is shrouded in history, with many places of interest including Othello's tower, the sunken Roman city of Salamis and many places of religious significance. Along side the traditional aspects of Famagusta, you will also find a vibrant city with all the amenities of a busy sea port.

North Cyprus, Bogaz '; Famagusta. A quaint Northern Cyprus fishing village renowned for its local fish restaurants situated on the sea front, Bogaz is the gate way to the North Cyprus, Karpaz and the Andreas Monastery. Located close by is the village of Bafra, enjoying massive international investment with stunning world class developments both for leisure and residential purposes.

North Cyprus, Yesiltepe, meaning green mountains as you would expect is located in the mountains and valleys of the Kyrenia mountain range, west of Kyrenia town. Affording spectacular coastal views, the village of Yesiltepe is increasingly becoming an attractive residential location with convenient access to all facilities.

North Cyprus, Karaac. Located in the mountains east of Esentepe, Karaac has only recently become a developing residential location. Enjoying the pine clad slopes and verdant green fields. Karaac offers excellent panoramic sea views and only located a few minutes drive from the Championship Golf Course in North Cyprus, Esentepe.

North Cyprus, Bahceli. Located between Esentepe and Tatlisu, Bahceli still retains its traditional village atmosphere, whilst prospering from the amenities of its neighbouring villages.

North Cyprus, Lefkosa / Nicosia. The capital city of Northern Cyprus and the administrative centre of the North. Lefkosa continues to retain a traditional eastern city atmosphere, combined with the modern west. Boasting many international retail outlets, modern and traditional dinning opportunities. A wonderful historic heritage dating as far back as the Assyrian, Egyptian, Persian and Byzantine dynasties.

North Cyprus Famagusta
Famagusta, an old fortified town too boasts cathedral converted into a mosque by Ottomans and is fascinating to visit. Salamis, ancient Roman ruins near Famagusta is a gorgeous historical site, just cast your mind back.
North Cyprus Buffavento Castle can be reached by a rough ride or a bit of a walk, but what a view!! Kantara Castle exists as one of the Crusaders castle trio in the Kyrenia Mountain Range and allows wonderful views on North Cyprus beaches.
Bogaz, a lovely coastal fishing village situated in Karpaz is lined with harbour cafes.Walking Mountain Trails and Walking Tours are there to be practiced throughout North Cyprus. Kyrenia Mountains and Northern Cyprus cities with historical sites in their surroundings provide good condition for walking trails and tours as well.
Turtle Beaches in North Cyprus are visited by tourists to watch the Green or Loggerhead turtles. Turtle as a North Cyprus fauna symbol is embodied in many variations.


You should check with the tourist office when is the best time to see the turtles, or you can speak to the Turtle Protection Society on 0392 815 2496. The Turtle Project site is on the old road east to Esentepe, near Kyrenia the egg-laying season is from June to October. There is a volunteer opportunity to help to protect these endangered species. Karaman/Karmi is an Anglo/German village in North Cyprus situated above K'lou and nestled in Kyrenia Mountains, with a good pub, The Crows Nest, twee little streets and lovely gardens.

The old walled town located in the centre of this expanding city is where you can find an abundance of shops and cafes and is well worth a leisurely stroll. The beaches here are unrivalled and the calm waters of the Mediterranean ensure many relaxing days spent on the beach. The town also plays host to the busy commercial port where most exports and imports are processed. The E.M.U (Eastern Mediterranean University) is located here and has the largest University campus in Cyprus, it attracts many overseas students who come to study the various subjects that this diverse University offers. There are many restaurants to choose from and with the large student population a lively atmosphere can be experienced most nights of the week.

Famagusta is one of the most important, greatly fortified ports in the Mediterranean. To the north lie the ruins of the great city of Salamis, believed to have been founded in the 11th Century B.C. After the influences of the many conquering nations, including the Romans, the city was finally abandoned in 648 A.D. following the combined catastrophes of earthquakes and raids by Arab pirates. The population of Salamis then moved to Famagusta.

The spectacular ruins give a fascinating insight into long-lost civilisations and include a magnificent amphitheatre, Roman baths, a gymnasium and royal tombs. Just inland from Famagusta are the church and monastery dedicated to St. Barnabas, the founder of the apostolic church in Cyprus in 45 A.D. Barnabas, a Cypriot from Salamis visited the island accompanied by St. Paul and St. Mark and was later martyred in Salamis in 52 A.D. The church of St. Barnabas is preserved to this day, and houses a wonderful collection of 18th century icons. The monastery cloisters now house an archaeological museum.

The city lies on the eastern coast in a bay between Capes Greco and Eloea, and possesses the deepest harbour in Cyprus. Famagusta, which means "buried in the sand", is descriptive of the silted mouth of the Pedieos River north of the town. It was founded by the Macedonian Egyptian King Ptolemy II (308-246 B.C.). An influx of Christian refugees fleeing the downfall of Acre (1291) in Palestine transformed it from a tiny village into one of the richest cities in Christendom. In 1372 the port was seized by Genoa and in 1489 by Venice. In 1571, the Ottoman Turks conquered the city.

The Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, previously the St. Nicholas Cathedral stands in Namik Kemal Square within the walls of the city of Famagusta. Built by Lusignans between 1298 and 1312, it is a stunning example of gothic architecture. The crowning of Lusignan Kings of Cyprus took place in this building, testament to its importance. Following the Ottoman conquest, the cathedral was used as a mosque following the addition of a minaret. There were no other major changes to its structure, and many original features remain. The city also houses the Sinan Pasha Mosque, once known as the St. Peter and St. Paul Church. Built between 1358 and 1360, like its larger neighbour it was converted to a mosque once the city was captured by Ottomans.

Guzelyurt
Lying on the West coast of Kyrenia, Guzelyurt is renowned for its mass production of citrus fruits which is the main export product for the island. Spring time is one of the best times to visit this agricultural area, whilst natural fragrances and beautiful blossoms enrich this natural rural area. The lifestyle here is much more laid back that the other cities where you are more likely to spend your days exploring the natural habitat eating simple traditional food in the many local villages.


Historical Places in Kyrenia
Kyrenia is regarded as the main Tourist location on the Island, widely referred to as the pearl of the Mediterranean' its beauty is legendary and has been praised by every ruler to pass through our shores. The shopping amenities are vast and cater for the ever demanding tourist needs. The picture postcard harbor is the main focus at night and is dotted with street tavernas and local bars, the ambience is unforgettable and will live with you forever. The surrounding villages are unique in their own right, all offering a wide choice of restaurants whilst retaining their natural village charm. Accommodation ranges from simple self catering apartments to luxury 5 * hotels with casinos.

Bellapais cyprusa2z
Four miles to the east of Kyrenia nestling in the mountains is Touching the peaceful village, which was once home for Lawrence Durrell when he wrote 'Bitter Lemons', the Bellapais Abbey is indisputably one of the most majestic sites on the island. It is the most impressive Gothic Monument preserved from the Lusignan era around the 13th Century.

Kyrenia - Icon Museum
Peering over the western end of the harbour is the tower of Archangelos church, dedicated to the Archangel Michael; this is now an Icon Museum. The church was built at the end of the nineteenth century and opened as the Girne Icon Museum on 11th June 1990. The icons are a collection from the various Greek Orthodox churches in the surrounding area, it being safer to house them under one roof.

The conventions of iconography are rigidly stylised and therefore virtually unchanging.The methods still used today were established in the sixth century. An icon must not be a caricature, nor must there be any three-dimensional effect, the figure must appear flat. Prayers are said before the process begins so that the spirit of God is with the artist. The icon is venerated not for itself, but for what it represents.

Kyrenia - The Old Harbour
The picturesque old harbour is mostly lined with long-disused carob warehouses.These have now undergone tasteful remodelling and have been turned into flats,bars,cafés and restourants. There are plenty of good local places to eat, in fact so many, that choosing where to go is one of the most difficult decisions that the holidaymaker has to face.The best value will always be the restourants that specialise in local food. Prices in the old harbour tend to be slightly higher than in villages but it is a small price to pay for such a wonferful atmosphere. Beware of restaurants which are of an international style, they tend to charge about twice as much for their food and drinks.

Back Streets:
No visitor should miss a walk through the back streets. Yt is there they will find the real heart of the town nd some of th best buys, hidden away in small shops that on entering suddenly become an Aladdin's cave stocked with a remarkable and eclectic selection.

Kyrenia - Aga Cafer Pasa Mosque
The mosque behind the harbour was built by a Turkish landowner soon after 1580 and bears his name, Aa Cafér Paa Mosque. The mosque is well-sited; it not only overlooks the harbour, but is also close to an ancient spring, which was used for the ritual ablutions. The spring, with a stone fountain, is still in use today. The minaret is built of local stone and the Muezzin calls out the prayer or 'Ezan' five times a day. It is sung in Arabic.

Kyrenia - Bellapais Monastery
Choose the right time to visit and you will experience the pervasive tranquillity of this alluring and incomparable place. If you feel like a moment of relaxation, away from the pressures of everyday life, there is nowhere better, in my view, than to stroll through the streets of Bellapais, and on to the peace and tranquillity of the Abbey itself. Choose a quiet time, avoiding the weekends and high season, if you can, when locals and tour companies alike tend to descend upon the picturesque spot like a flock of birds. I have been lucky enough, on several occasions, to find myself totally alone, meandering through the ancient site and believing that I hear the steps of the "white monks" scurrying along about their duties, or whispering urgently among the great eaves of the ancient Refectory.

Although there is a car park directly adjacent to Bellapais Abbey, it may be wise to park on the outskirts of the village and walk the few hundred metres in to the centre itself. Then you will be able to experience the ambience created by the narrow streets, and see what the village itself has to offer. Bellapais occupies a sloping natural terrace overlooking the sea, on the road inland and uphill from Ozanköy.


SYMPATHETIC RESTORATION
Walking through the narrow main street, up towards the Abbey itself, I get the feeling that Bellapais, as a village, has smartened itself up. Whilst obviously targeting the tourist trade, there has also been a concerted effort to provide a certain international air of quality, yet still retaining the ethnic atmosphere that Gerald Durrell found so appealing when he first settled here. During the mid-1950s, when the writer himself brought interest to the area, I would imagine that the buildings and facades were in a far more sorry state than they are today. Crumbling facades have been restored and cleaned; inviting restaurants, cafes, small exclusive hotels and holiday accommodation sit happily and unobtrusively among the tenanted buildings and family homes of old Bellapais.

As I walk the slow pace of a local in the summer heat, I feel Chameleon-like, tip-toeing up the dappled asphalt road, side-stepping into the shade as the traffic tries to negotiate its way through the single thoroughfares. Apart from the occasional engine noise, all is quiet.

ST. MARY OF THE MOUNTAIN
At the brow of the hill, at the north east of the village, the vista opens. The first astonishing glimpse of the Abbey can be seen, perched sentry-like on the cliff plateau, yet nestling in the lea of the mountains, like a babe in arms. It is as if nature itself is protecting something of beauty. I can well understand why the Abbey was originally founded and named as "St. Mary of the Mountain", just after 1200, by Augustinian Canons fleeing Palestine.

It was the Lusignan King Hugh III who endowed the Abbey, and succeeding Lusignan Kings who were its benefactors, and who lived there. For many years it was known as "Abbaye de la Pais" (Abbey of Peace), and the name was eventually corrupted by the Venetians to "De la Pais", which later became Bellapais.

GOTHIC AMBIENCE
Let us enter the Abbey grounds then, through the low gate (a small entrance fee is charged) and approach through the promenade of exotic palm trees. Immediately you are struck by the Gothic ambience of the place as you walk through the fourteenth century cloisters, watched overhead by the carved heads of both humans and gargoyles. The central courtyard dominates the scene, while heady and robust Cypress trees tower loftily into the sky above, casting their shadows on to the tended borders and crafted lawns below. The contrast of light and dark is startling. As is the silence. Travel up the outside stairway which leads to the upstairs parapet.

Kyrenia - West Coast Beaches
This area covers the beaches primarily favoured by tourists, due to ease of access and the facilities on offer. Most are managed by either a hotel or restourant,and are known under the same name. In return for keeping the beach clean a small entrance fee is charged. From Girne westwards the main road hugs the coast where the beaches are situated.Much of the tourist accommodation is to be found in this area.

Kervansaray Beach is a pretty,sandy cove just 4 miles(6,4km) from Girne. After driving through Karaoglanoglu turn right for Gülers Fish Bar. Park anywhere along the roadsides and walk down to the beach. A charge is made for the use of the sun loungers. There is a small beach bar serving drinks and ice cream, but no changing rooms. The restourants overlooking the beach have a good selection of food.

It is quite magical here in the early evening, sipping a cool drink while watching the setting sun cast a golden glow over the gently lapping waves.

Next is Sunset Beach which is identified by the Peace and Freedom Monument dominating the sandy bay. This is a great place for children. A small island is only a short swim away from the shore; in fact it is almost possible to wade out to the island. Facilities are good but basic. The beach bar has varied snack menu. There are showers and toilets, sun loungers and sunshades. Parking is no problem.

Around the headland is Deniz Kızı (Mermaid) Beach. A very attractive horseshoe bay. This beach belongs to two hotels, the Deniz Kızıand Deniz Kızı Royal, so it can be busy. Just above the beach is a large freshwater swimming pool. This is also open to the public. As well as the normal facilities some water sports are on offer. There are several steps down onto the sand so it is not suitable for people with walking difficulties.

Green Coast is a super area for snorkelling. The holiday village here has made a sandy beach; they have been successful to a certain extent, but where the sand finishes the stones begin. Beach shoes are a must. The restourant is located at beach level and there are showers and toilets. The complex has a car park next to reception.

Alsancak Beach, a suprisingly attractive small sandy beach, has recently been open to the public. Look for the sign to Alsancak restourant. After turning off the main road, head straight, ignoring the red army sign! The area was previously under military control and at the time of publication the warning has not yet been removed. A delightful local meal can be enjoyed while overlooking the sea.

Mare Monte is 5,6 miles(9km) from Girne. This long strech of sand has plenty of sun loungers and sunshades. It is a popular beach with the locals so the weekends are normally busy. There are a great number of steps to the beach and when hot can feel like you are climbing a mountain!

The LA Hotel has a good sandy beach, which is well looked after.As well as the normal facilities you will also find the water sports on offer.

Kyrenia - History
Founded probably in the tenth century BC by the early settles,Girne became one of the major city kingdoms.Beacuse of it position on the northern shore, at approximately halfway from west to east, it became a natural point to develop a harbour and is only a short distance from Turkey, a journey easily covered by sailing craft of ancient times.

There is little recorded history of the town's early development and nothing of any note until Byzantine rule when the town was fortified against the Arab raids of the seventh century.

The Lusignans developed the town and strengthened the castle whics they used as a royal residence as well as a military fort.So strongly did they re-fortify it, that when the Genoese overran the ysland in 1373/74 the castle effectively withstood the siege.

The Venetians strengthened the castle in 1544, placing the new huge walls and towers outside the old castle perimeter and adding two strong landward bastions and one seaward to protect the harbour entrance.

Despite these efforts against attack, when the Ottomans struck in 1570 they encountered no resistance. Girne, already apprised of the massacre that had taken place in Nicosia, felt that the might of the Ottoman army was not to be thwarted and capitulated without firing a single shot.

Under the Ottomans the town was simply a minor port and the population, through lack of enterprise and employment, dwindled.

When the British took over as governors of the ysland, they found the town with its quiet sleepy atmosphere appealing, and begand to develop it slowly as an ideal place for gentle recreation. They also made use of the excellent facilities of the castle and developed a prison and police academy within it.

The Dome Hotel was built to accommondate visitors and for many years was the only hotel in Girne. When it opened in 1939 the single storey building was surmounted by a dome, hence the name.

However as the town became more popular and the need for hotel accomodation increased, the dome was removed to allow the addition of more rooms on the first floor. The name remained the same and thoug the following decades the Dome has become large. There is now a casino to cater for the gamblers and most recently the building of a freshwater swimming pool.

Kyrenia - St. Hilarion Castle
Like the Buffavento and the Kantara Castles, St. Hilarion Castle was built so as to defend the island against the Arab raids. A monastery and a church were built here in the 10th century. The first references to the St. Hilarion castle are found in the 1191 records. For some time it was of strategic importance, but later the St. Hilarion Castle became the summer resort of the Lusignan nobility. The St. Hilarion castle has three parts. The parapets for the defence of the main entrance were fortified by the Byzantines in the 11th century.

The lower section of the castle was being used for the soldiers and the horses. The middle section contained the royal palace, the kitchen, the church and a big cistern. At the entrance to the castle in the upper section there is a Lusignan Gate. There is a courtyard in the middle. The nobility used to live in the Eastern section, the kitchen and the other rooms for daily use were in the western section.

Othello Tower | Othello Castle:
"Othello Tower" also knows as "Othello Castle" was built in the 12th century during the Lusignan period, to protect the harbour. The Sea Gate on in this side, along with the Land Gate were the two major entrances of walled Famagusta. The citadel was originally surrounded with a moat. In 1492 Venetians transformed it into an artillery stronghold making alterations similar to those at Kyrenia castle. The marble panel above the entrance shows the winged lion of Venice, and includes the name pf Nicolo Foscarini who remodelled the tower.

It is thought that when Leonardo Da Vinci visited Cyprus in 1481 he advised the Venetians on the design of the defences of Famagusta. The tower of citadel consists of towers and corridors leading to artillery chambers. On one side its large courtyard is the refectory and above it apartment, both dating back to the Lusignan period. The present day name of the tower, Othello Castle; came into use during the British colonial period. In his famous tragedy, where the setting is a "seaport in Cyprus" Shakespeare makes Othello a Moor. He must have heard of the Venetian governor of the island, Christophoro Moor whose surname means "moor".
In the courtyard of the citadel (Othello Castle) there are some Ottoman and Spanish cannons and their iron balls. The stone walls were for catapults. The surviving walls and bastions of Famagusta are from the Venetian period. On the land side the city was protected by the squat Martinengo Bastion. This was named after the Venetian commander Count Heracles Martinengo. In the Ravelin, which protected the Land Gate, in addition to artillery chambers a chapel is encountered. The large round tower in the Othello Castle (Othello Tower), which was originally a Venetian arsenal on the sea side is named after Dyamboulat, the Turkish commender by whose bravery the Bastion was captured.

The Unrivalled Beauty of Bufavento
As we advanced to further the a higher altitude we found ourselves emerged in the clouds. We lifted our heads up among the clouds facing the magnificence of Bufavento Castle. The magnificence of the castle become even more apparent with the rays of sun sifting through the clouds, illuminating the castle. The thousand year old disappearing and re -emerging among the clouds. It is the season of the awakening of the deaf snake. I can quite distinguish the sound, whether its the sound of the snake or the sound of the blowing wind. Because of this we cautiously advanced on our way. The beauty of Buffavento Castle dwells on my mind.

I have never seen Buffavento on the three pearls of the Five finger mountains. St Hilarion Castle Buffavento Castle Kantara is such glorious colour and grandeur. Although we were extremely far down below, we took a short break in our walk and I began taking photos. In tranquil mood we continued on our Journey.

Five Finger Mountain
North Cyprus Bespamark (Five Fingers) Mountain can be reached if you drive east, past Arapkoy to the top of the hill. There is a good Taverna where you can park your car. Take a stroll and wonder at the beauty of North Cyprus mountains and surrounding areas. Across the road from the Taverna you will find the track to Buffavento Castle, which can be covered on foot or with a 4X4. Also, just a few yards from the Taverna, on the other side of the road, there is a breathtaking view of the Nicosia plain. From this Taverna you can also walk to The Herbarium which takes 2 hours. The trip provides you excellent walking and superb views, you can see lots of North Cyprus wild flowers (in season) and assorted orchids, herbs, shrubs and trees.

Look out for the deserted monastery and the view from Lovers Leap at about halfway, what a view!! Watch your step, it's a sheer drop. There and back feels like a circular walk due to the contrasting views from both perspectives.