Limassol Castle - A Medieval Castle in Cyprus

The history of Limassol is fascinating - the city has been under the rule of more than one empire and different nations over the course of its existence. Today Limassol is a vibrant cosmopolitan city, but there are not only business centres and modern Limassol properties but also monuments from many different cultures and eras. One of the most famous historical monuments in the city is Limassol Castle. It is located in the centre of the old town and is very popular with tourists and locals.

Every year, Limassol is visited by a huge number of visitors from all over the world. Many of them even decide to relocate to Cyprus and they can so this by investing in real estate.

Limassol Castle: Historical Facts

The history of this Medieval castle is full of romantic and mysterious events. At some point the castle belonged to one of the most famous kings - Richard the Lionheart. It was here that Richard got married to his beloved Berengaria of Navarre. Sadly, the chapel of the castle where it happened didn’t survive.

The history of the castle is inextricably linked to that of the town. Over the course of its existence, Limassol Castle has experienced periods of prosperity and decline on several occasions.

The key dates in its age-old history are the following:

• XII century. It was at this time, according to the documents, that Limassol Castle was built. The city was then under the rule of the Louisignan dynasty. The exact date of construction remains unknown. Moreover, some historians still doubt that the castle was built at this time, suggesting that its construction began a century later.
• The end of the 14th century. In the year 73 of the 14th century the castle was partially destroyed after Limassol was conquered and burned by the Genoese. Later the castle was rebuilt, but it was soon destroyed again by a natural disaster.
• End of the XV century. Limassol Castle suffered a major earthquake in the year 25 of the 15th century. Its defensive capabilities deteriorated considerably after all these events, leading to its seizure by the Egyptians. It was at this stage that Gothic elements, such as arches and windows, appeared in its architecture. It is worth mentioning that Limassol Castle was restored and enlarged many times during the following centuries.
• Sixteenth century. In 1538 the city was attacked by the Turks. A second attack was expected, and the ruler of Cyprus decided to destroy the castle so that it would not be overrun by the enemy. Thus, in 1568, the Limassol Castle was completely destroyed.
• End of the 16th century. After the capture of the city, the Turks began to actively rebuild the castle, and it was at this time it was erected in the form in which we know it today. The defensive power of the castle increased greatly, and at a later date the cellars were converted into prison cells. Although the Turks were not indifferent to the castle and for a long time were engaged in its revival, the city itself fell into decay during their rule. Culture, science and education hardly developed during this time and the standard of living was quite low.

Thus, the history of Limassol, as well as the history of the whole island, largely determined the fate of the castle. The castle, along with the city, has experienced attacks, wars and the destructive power of nature.

The Castle of Limassol in our times

In the 21st century, Limassol Castle is no longer a defensive structure, nowadays it has a very different function. It is a museum of the medieval history of the island, and there are several exhibitions with artefacts from the Byzantine and Medieval periods. The museum displays old clothes and armour, weapons, everyday items, coin collections, jewellery, cult objects and many other glass, ceramic and metal objects. Many of the artefacts have been transferred here from Nicosia after parts of the city fell under Turkish rule.

For those interested in architecture, the monastery in Ayia Napa and the Limassol Castle are a must-see while in Cyprus. The medieval castle still preserves fragments of Gothic buildings from the Byzantine era. The castle has an observation platform on its upper level that offers amazing views of the city and the beaches of Limassol. For the romantics, it's a place you're bound to love and remember for a long time.

The castle and the nearby square are also a good place for a family day out. There are plenty of cafés and restaurants with cosy interiors and tasty meals around the castle. After seeing all the exhibitions and the castle itself, it's worth popping into one of these places to sample the local cuisine. There's also a town promenade next to the castle that's perfect for relaxing family walks.

Cyprus Medieval Castle in Limassol: How to get there

The castle can be reached by car, bus or even on foot. The closest public transport stop to the castle is Old Harbour, to which bus no. 30 runs regularly.

The street on which Limassol Castle stands was named after Richard and Berengaria, and has retained its name for many centuries after their reign. You have to take the small streets through the dense urban area to get to the castle itself. There are many beautiful ancient and modern buildings in this part of town. Real estate in Cyprus in Limassol offers a wide range of options. This amazing city offers luxury apartments, modern studios, penthouses, villas and other types of comfortable properties.

There is no way you can get lost on the way to the castle - this Medieval castle in Cyprus is very popular and all locals and at least half of the tourists know how to get there. The easiest way to get to the castle is through Syntagmatos street, which stretches along the town's promenade. Follow this street to the roundabout and then upwards, where you will start to get to know this unique monument, keeping in your memory the most special and unique moments of your stay in Cyprus!