Nicosia Excursions

Northern Cyprus

The tourist infrastructure of Northern Cyprus, the area beyond the 'green line', which is currently occupied by Turkey, is less developed than the south and the unspoilt countryside and numerous historic sites make a visit worthwhile for those adventurous enough to explore. Historic Gazimagosa (formerly known as Famagusta) on the east coast, for example, dates from 285 BC and has held an important place in Mediterranean history through the ages. The Medieval walls still stand and the remains of some ancient buildings are visible in the old city. Girne (Kyrenia) on the north coast has an interesting castle and picturesque harbour as well as a Shipwreck Museum, which houses the oldest trading ship yet found and raised from the sea bed, having sunk around 300 BC. Both Kyrenia and Gazimagosa have some modern tourist resort hotels, offering luxury accommodation and safe bathing in the Mediterranean Sea.