Famagusta was once a busy resort and trading centre; today it is a town frozen in time after the Turkish invasion in 1974. A Gothic cathedral, Venetian walls and the abandoned district of Varosha.
Famagusta, rich in history and stunning architecture, lies on the east coast of the northern part of Cyprus. Once a busy resort and trading centre, it has become a fascinating “ghost town”, frozen in time after the Turkish invasion in 1974.
It is precisely this unique atmosphere that makes Famagusta a tempting destination for travellers looking for unusual experiences and a dive into history.
The Cathedral of St Nicholas (the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque)
Encircling the whole old town
Passport
Famagusta’s landmark is undoubtedly the Gothic Cathedral of St Nicholas, an imposing 13th-century building. The cathedral, originally a Catholic church, was converted into the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque after the Turks conquered Famagusta.
Today it is a stunning example of Gothic architecture marked by the ravages of time. A walk around its crumbling walls, taking in their majesty, will leave a deep impression in your memories.
The cathedral now serves as a mosque – shoulders and knees covered.
Besides the cathedral, Famagusta hides other monuments that bear witness to the glory of times past. Walk along the walls encircling the old town and enjoy the panoramic view of the sea. Don’t forget to swim on the beautiful beaches of new Famagusta – from there you can see up close the abandoned coastline of crumbling hotels in the ghost town of Varosha.
Famagusta is not just about monuments but also about atmosphere. Take in the melancholy beauty of the crumbling buildings, taste traditional food in cosy tavernas and chat with the locals, who will gladly tell you stories of old Famagusta.
Most of the district is still fenced off and guarded by troops. Since 2020 only a designated part has been opened to visitors – outside it, entry is strictly forbidden, and do not photograph military sites.
If you want to learn more about the town’s history and culture, take a guided tour.
People most often go to North Cyprus on a package holiday – the tour operator arranges the flight and the transfer across the border. More in the article South or North Cyprus?
On the east coast of the northern part of Cyprus.
An abandoned district of Famagusta, once a famous resort. After 1974 it remained closed; since 2020 only a designated part has been accessible, and the rest is a military zone.
Originally the 13th-century Gothic Cathedral of St Nicholas, which the Turks converted into a mosque after conquering the town.
A valid passport – in the north, an identity document is required for entry and during your stay.
Conservatively – shoulders and knees covered.
Famagusta awaits those who are not afraid to explore unusual destinations and dive into the depths of history.
