Famagusta, known as Gazimağusa in Turkish, stands as a historic city nestled along the eastern coast of Cyprus.
Situated within the northern part of the island, it belongs to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Famagusta sits approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) east of Ercan International Airport, with a typical drive lasting around 50 minutes, depending on traffic and your destination within the city.
Ercan Airport serves as the primary international entry point to North Cyprus and is conveniently situated near the capital, Nicosia, making it the closest major airport for travelers planning a visit to Famagusta.
As of September 2021, the population of Famagusta in Northern Cyprus is estimated to be around 65,000 residents. Covering an area of approximately 1,500 square kilometers (580 square miles), Famagusta spans across both urbanized and rural landscapes, dominating a significant portion of the northeastern coast of the island.
What Makes Famagusta Distinct?
Famagusta boasts a rich tapestry of history that traces back millennia. Initially established by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC, it thrived as a prominent port city during the Byzantine era. Throughout its history, Famagusta exchanged hands among various civilizations, including the Lusignans, Venetians, and Ottomans, each leaving enduring architectural and cultural legacies.
The city is renowned for its remarkably preserved medieval city walls, which encircle the historic core and offer glimpses into its storied past. Within these walls lie prominent landmarks such as the Othello Castle, believed to be the setting of Shakespeare’s play “Othello,” and the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, formerly St. Nicholas Cathedral, boasting magnificent Gothic architecture.
A notable area within Famagusta is Varosha, once a bustling tourist resort during the 1970s. However, following the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, Varosha was abandoned and now stands as a fenced-off ghost town, frozen in time, serving as a poignant reminder of the island’s complex political situation.
The coastal region of Famagusta is famed for its pristine beaches adorned with golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Popular beaches include Glapsides Beach, Palm Beach, and Salamis Bay, offering locals and tourists alike opportunities for relaxation, swimming, and various water sports.
Salamis, an ancient city situated in the Famagusta District of Cyprus, traces its origins back to the 11th century BC and prospered as the capital of Cyprus during Roman and Byzantine rule. The old city of Salamis now stands as a vast archaeological site, providing insight into the region’s ancient history. Visitors can explore ruins such as the gymnasium, theater, amphitheater, Roman baths, and the remarkable Roman villa boasting well-preserved floor mosaics, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and admirers of ancient civilizations.
St. Barnabas Church, located in the Famagusta District of Cyprus, holds significant religious and cultural importance. Dedicated to St. Barnabas, who is credited with bringing Christianity to Cyprus, the original church dates back to the Byzantine era but underwent reconstruction in the 18th century. Adorned with beautiful frescoes depicting biblical scenes and religious icons, the church also houses a small museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to St. Barnabas and the island’s Christian heritage, serving as a place of reverence and historical significance.
It’s crucial to acknowledge that Famagusta and its surrounding region are subject to political sensitivity due to the division of Cyprus.
