Besides the Obvious

Famagusta is located on the eastern coast of Cyprus. It is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage dating back to ancient times. Renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and picturesque beaches, Famagusta attracts visitors with its blend of history and natural beauty. So let’s review what to see in Famagusta.

Once a thriving commercial hub and an important port city, Famagusta’s history is marked by periods of prosperity and conflict. The city is best known for its impressive medieval walls and the iconic Othello Castle. Which stands as a testament to its medieval past. However, Famagusta also bears the scars of more recent history. Particularly in its abandoned and fenced-off district of Varosha, a poignant reminder of the unresolved political issues on the island. Despite these challenges, Famagusta remains a captivating destination. That invites exploration of its layered history and the enduring spirit of its resilient community.

History of Famagusta

Famagusta, situated on the eastern coast of Cyprus, boasts a history that spans millennia, with roots reaching back to antiquity. The city’s origins can be traced to ancient times, and it flourished under various rulers, including the Romans, Byzantines, and Lusignans. However, Famagusta’s prominence soared during the medieval period when it became a vital port and commercial center under the Lusignan and Venetian rule. The construction of the impressive city walls and iconic landmarks such as Othello Castle during this era reflects the city’s strategic and cultural significance.

In the 20th century, Famagusta witnessed turbulent times due to the Cyprus conflict. The events of 1974, which led to the Turkish invasion and subsequent division of the island, had a profound impact on Famagusta. The once-thriving city faced a dramatic turn of fate, particularly in the Varosha district, which remains deserted and fenced off to this day. Famagusta’s history thus reflects both its glorious past as a medieval jewel and the contemporary challenges resulting from the complex geopolitical landscape of Cyprus.

What to see in Famagusta

The abandoned district of Varosha in Famagusta, also known as the “Ghost Town,” carries a haunting atmosphere and offers a unique, albeit restricted, exploration experience due to its current status. While access to Varosha is limited, you can still observe the following from a distance:

Varosha Beach

The stunning coastline of Varosha remains largely untouched, with deserted beaches and the eerie contrast of empty hotels and residences in the background. The beach area provides a poignant view of the city’s frozen state.

Abandoned Hotels

Varosha is lined with abandoned hotels, including once-luxurious establishments that catered to tourists from around the world. The shells of these buildings stand as silent witnesses to the abrupt disruption caused by the events of 1974.

Fenced-off Streets

Many streets in Varosha are fenced off, preventing access to the general public. Despite this, you can peer through the barriers to witness the deserted avenues, overgrown with vegetation, giving a sense of the once-vibrant life that abruptly came to a halt.

Deteriorating Architecture

The abandoned structures in Varosha showcase the impact of time and neglect. Dilapidated buildings and crumbling facades create a stark contrast to the memories of Varosha’s heyday as a bustling resort town.

Observation Points

There are elevated areas outside Varosha, such as viewpoints along the city walls, that allow for distant views of the abandoned district. These vantage points offer a unique perspective on the scale of the abandonment and the magnitude of its historical significance.

While Varosha is a compelling and poignant site, it’s essential to respect any restrictions in place and be mindful of the sensitivity surrounding its history. The current situation of Varosha is a reminder of the complex geopolitical issues in Cyprus, and visitors should approach the area with a sense of reverence for the people and events that shaped its destiny.

How to get to Famagusta

Till January 2022, Varosha in Famagusta remained a restricted and military-controlled area, and access was generally not allowed to the public. The area had been fenced off since the events of 1974, and entering Varosha without proper authorization was prohibited. Since then, they opened the abandoned Varosha to the public. It is still under control, but now it is possible to visit the abandoned streets.

The status of Varosha and access regulations may change. So it’s crucial to check the latest information from reliable sources or local authorities for any updates on the situation. Visitors should also be aware of the political complexities surrounding the region and exercise respect and caution when discussing or attempting to explore areas with restricted access. Always adhere to local laws and regulations to ensure your safety and the preservation of historical sites.

Current information from 2024 January:

• By taxi: you can ask a taxi driver to drive you there. Please note, that you need to cross the border, so you need to have your passport with you.
• By car: you can cross the border with a rented car, but you need to pay for additional insurance at the border for your car to be able to use it in the Turkish territories. You can choose among several options, daily, weekly, and monthly insurance as well. Once arriving in Varosha, you need to leave your car in the designated parking and can access Varosha on foot. There you can rent bikes and electric scooters too. But it is manageable to walk around the whole assigned territory within 1-1,5 hours.

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