STANDING THE TEST OF TIME
The Medieval Castle of Limassol is a historic landmark situated near the old harbour in the heart of the city’s historical old town. It has a rich and interesting story that has played a significant role in the island’s history. Standing the test of time, the castle has witnessed centuries of events from its early origins as a religious structure to its current vocation as a Medieval Museum. Indeed the castle has served several purposes throughout the ages. In its time, it has served as a Byzantine fortification, a royal residence, an Ottoman garrisoned fort, and a British colonial prison.
A GRAND STRUCTURE
Excavations within the castle’s grounds have revealed that a structure of sorts existed on the site from around the 4th century. Probably a Christian Basilica, a grand structure of sorts was known to stand on the site by the 10th century. Evidence suggests however, that this structure had endured both the constant toll of earthquakes and several external attacks eventually falling into disrepair. The present edifice dates to the period of Ottoman rule.Â
A CHANGE OF FATE
The dilapitated Christian Basilica received a reprieve by the time of Byzantine rule. Byzantine administrators identified its defensive strategic potential. They decided that the site would be better served as a stronghold for defending the city from further enemy attacks. With this in mind, Byzantine builders converted the ruins into a castle. The immediate area surrounding the structure also became a major fortification with the addition of a moat. The extended thickened walls and imposing towers eventually created a formidable fortress. The new fortress would go on to play a crucial role in the defence of both the harbour and the historical old town of the city.Â
AN ENGLISH KING & A CYPRIOT CASTLE
When Richard the Lionheart conquered the island on his way to the Third Crusade in 1191, he identified the Limassol Castle as one of his primary military targets. After taking control of the castle, he used it as a springboard to launch further military campaigns, helping him to take control of the whole island in under a year. His reverence for the castle however, did not stop there! He promptly set up one of his royal residences within its grounds and the castle would go on to host one of the most significant events in its history. The castle would go on to serve as the venue for the king’s lavish wedding ceremony. Nobles and dignitaries from across Europe attended the grand affair, which witnessed an English King wed and a new English Queen crowned in Cyprus.
THE LUSIGNAN DYNASTY
The castle’s brush with royalty did not end there. When the Frankish Lusignans took control of the island a year later, the castle continued to function as a main seat of power. The old royal residence became a symbol of the Lusignan dynasty’s power and influence on the island. The Lusignan rulers made significant renovations to the structure, adding new towers, walls, and a chapel.
NEW MILITARY TACTICS
By the 16th century, the castle was adapted for the new military tactics of the time. The island’s Venetian rulers added new defensive bastions to the structure. They also widened ramparts to accommodate artillery in the form of cannon. These preparations were made for an inevitable confrontation with Ottoman forces.Â
A NEW COMBAT ZONE
The Ottomans had firmly set their sights on the island and sought to capture if from the Republic of Venice. Cyprus once again became a combat zone, and several minor confrontations took place during most of the 16th century. Limassol and its castle were regularly targeted, and during one skirmish in 1538, the Ottomans briefly captured the castle and most of the city. The Venetians promptly recaptured the city, but at the expense of the castle, which now lay in ruins. The Ottomans would eventually launch a full-scale invasion in 1570, and it took them up to a year to fully occupy the whole island. The Ottomans then restored the dilapidated castle to its former glory when they rebuilt much of it. They then fully utilised it as a new modern garrisoned fort.
A BRITISH PRISON
The British turned the castle into a colonial prison during their tenure. They added a new clock tower and entrance gate after converting the underground chamber and first floor into cells. The new prison remained in use until 1950. The castle was then ceded to the Department of Antiquities, and it became a District Museum and cultural centre thereafter.
THE MEDIEVAL MUSEUM
Today, the castle stands proudly as a testament to the island’s rich history. The structure serves as a reminder of its importance in medieval Cyprus. It has become a popular tourist attraction receiving thousands of visitors each year. It has also become a symbol of the city’s rich heritage that is often celebrated by the onsite museum. Several artefacts and exhibits related to the island and, in particular, the castle’s history are on display, forming the backbone of the museum’s exhibits. The exhibits feature Cyprus’s historical development, its economic, social, and artistic evolution. The daily life of people on the island from the 3rd to the 18th centuries is also featured. Visitors can explore the castle’s towers and dungeons and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea from the castle’s upper ramparts.Â
A PICTURESQUE SETTING
The castle’s picturesque setting and historical significance also make it an ideal venue for cultural events. Several concerts, as well as exhibitions, are often held within the castle’s grounds throughout the year. This attracts visitors from all over the world and makes for a wonderful day trip for those wanting to take in some historical culture. The castle is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in medieval history and architecture.
Opening hours
Monday to Saturday: 9.00 am to 5.00 pm
Sunday: 10.00 am to 1.00 pm
A minimal entrance fee is charged
Intercity bus to Limassol and then local bus 30
