an abstract photo of a curved building with a blue sky in the background

Limassol Castle

Situated in the heart of the old town, Limassol

A Castle with Many Layers:

Archaeological investigations within the castle have revealed that it was built over an Early Christian basilica (4th-7th century CE) and a Middle Byzantine monument (10th-11th century CE). Other finds beneath the Castle suggest the existence of an important church, possibly the city’s first cathedral.

A Turbulent History:

The original castle was erected by Guy de Lusignan in 1193. Over the centuries, it suffered damages from continuous attacks by the Genoese and the Mamelukes, as well as from earthquakes. In 1538, the Ottomans captured Limassol and the castle. The Venetian governor of Cyprus, after recapturing the castle, decided to demolish it to avoid its possible seizure. This destruction was completed in 1567–1568.

A Brief Overview of Limassol Castle

The Castle Today:

After the Ottoman acquisition of Cyprus in 1571, the remains or parts of the remains of the castle were incorporated into the new Ottoman fort, completed in 1590. The underground chamber and the first floor were transformed into prison cells and remained in use until 1950. Today, the castle houses the Medieval Collection of the Cyprus Museum.

A Royal Wedding:

According to tradition, this is where Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre and crowned her Queen of England in 1191.

Visiting the Castle:

The Limassol Castle is open all year round. The entrance fee is €4.50. For organized groups of more than 10 persons, there is a 20% reduction on the entry fees.