The word
“kantara” means “arch” in Arabic. The easternmost of the
three castles on the Five Finger Mountains, the Kantara
castle is in fact perched upon an arch, about 700 metres
above sea level and can be reached via Iskele, commanding
impressive views of the surrounding bays on both sides of
North Cyprus - and across into Turkey and sometimes even
Lebanon too on a clear day.. Well-positioned to control the
entrance to the Karpaz peninsula and The Mesaria plain, the
castle it is thought to have been built by the Byzantines
following the Arab raids on the island – but, like the other
two castles, St. Hilarion and Buffavento, written sources
first mention the castle in 1191, when Richard Lion-Heart
captured the island.
Throughout the Lusignan and Venetian periods, frequent
mention of the castle is made, as castle is involved in many
battles during this period. Then, during the era of the
Genoese attacks in Famagusta, Kantara Castle turned into a
refuge for those fleeing the fighting. Although the
Venetians later took control of the island, the castle began
to fall into disrepair during the 16th century due to being
so remote.
As you explore the castle ruins, you will discover a
picturesque collection of dormitories, medieval latrines, a
cistern, vaulted rooms, and a signal tower.