Othello Castle

Famagusta, Cyprus

Othello Castle was originally built as a moated citadel by the House of Lusignan in the 14th century to protect Famagusta's harbour, and was originally the main entrance to the town. The tower was restored 3 years after Cyprus was sold to the Republic of Venice, under the command of captain Nicolo Foscari. After the restoration the Lion of St. Marcus was engraved on the entrance, along with captain Nicolo Foscari's name and the date (1492). The castle gets its name from Shakespeare's famous play Othello, which is set in a harbour town in Cyprus. In 1566 the castle was moved to the prison.

Othello castle also has a refectory and a dormitory constructed during the Lusignan period. In the courtyard, there are old cannons lying on the ground. One of them is made of bronze and is over 400 years old. There are some iron cannon balls lying about, as well as some stone balls that would have been used in a trebuchet. It is rumoured that the Venetian merchants, during the Ottoman siege, hid their fortunes down here and sealed the tunnels up. As they were not allowed to take anything with them when they were allowed to leave the city, these treasures are still supposed to be there.

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Founded: 14th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in Cyprus

Rating

4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Prusias (7 months ago)
Nice place to eat dinner. I had the chicken barbecue chopstick and some starter "Meze". + The main dish was a big portion and delicious + Starters "Meze" was yummy + The young staff was smiling and attentive + Nice ambience + Live music was good - The music until live music must be improved. Disconnections and message tones was normal - I asked before for special Rakı brand, they said they have the small bottle no problem. After 1h I came back and sit they told me they don't have the small bottle. - The starter "Meze" Çiğköfte was tasty but too less only 2 pieces. This must be improved. - In the Menue you can read that all starters cost 30 TL and especially I asked for, but in the bill every starter had different higher prices. The Menue should be updated. - The chair was uncomfortable and the table wobbled
Nelly Shevchenko (11 months ago)
Amazing food, well worth the value. Hospitality was on the next level, as we came in as first customers and had the kitchen started for us. Even without a knowledge of Turkish we managed to communicate with the lovely hosts and cooks. The fire was on for our grilled fish and meat in seconds, and we got a lot of meze to start the meal while waiting for the main course. We would definitely visit again when around.
Heikki Kegg (11 months ago)
We spent the Saturday evening here which is Meze-only night with live music. The food was very good. Service excellent though only one waitress spoke english. The place was full of happy people eating and dancing. Very nice evening. Regular pricing.
Kati Hae (2 years ago)
We were here as tourists according to the recommendation of our host, and felt welcome. The majority of guests were locals I think. We took the Meze (one with meat/kebab; the other cold and hot Meze, which is without the shashlik/meat) and wine (even though a bottle of Raki on the table is the standard). The food was really good, and plenty! The atmosphere is relaxed, young, casual.
Stefan Ghiuta (2 years ago)
Best bar ever, a MUST experience if you get here in Famagosta
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