Salamis is the largest and most important ancient city in Cyprus, located near Famagusta on the eastern coast of the island. Founded around the 11th century BC, it became a major center of trade, culture, and political life during the Greek and Roman periods. Today, visitors can explore impressive ruins including a Roman theatre, gymnasium, baths, marble columns, and mosaics, offering a fascinating insight into the island’s rich ancient history.

The Monastery and Tomb of St. Barnabas is one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in Cyprus. According to tradition, St. Barnabas, the founder and patron saint of the Cypriot Church, was buried here after being martyred in Salamis during the 1st century AD. The monastery, built near his tomb, dates mainly from the 18th century and today houses an icon museum and archaeological collection. Surrounded by peaceful countryside, the site remains an important symbol of Cyprus’ religious and cultural heritage.

The Walled City of Famagusta is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the Mediterranean. Surrounded by massive Venetian walls built for defense against Ottoman attacks, the city contains a rich blend of Gothic, Venetian, Ottoman, and Lusignan architecture. Inside the walls, visitors can explore historic churches, mosques, palaces, narrow streets, and charming squares that reflect the multicultural history of Cyprus. Today, the Walled City is one of the island’s most important cultural and historical attractions.

Othello Tower is a historic fortress located at the entrance of Famagusta Harbour. Originally built by the Lusignans in the 14th century and later strengthened by the Venetians, the tower played an important role in protecting the city from sea attacks. It is widely associated with William Shakespeare’s famous play “Othello,” as the story is believed to have been inspired by a Venetian governor of Cyprus. Today, the tower is one of Famagusta’s most important historical landmarks, offering visitors impressive medieval architecture and panoramic views of the harbour.

Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, originally known as the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the Eastern Mediterranean. Built by the Lusignans in the 14th century, it was inspired by the great cathedrals of France and served as the coronation church of the Kings of Cyprus. After the Ottoman conquest of Famagusta in 1571, the cathedral was converted into a mosque and renamed after Ottoman commander Lala Mustafa Pasha. Today, it stands as one of the most iconic landmarks of Famagusta, reflecting the rich multicultural history of Cyprus.

Varosha, also known as the Ghost Town of Famagusta, was once the most famous tourist resort in Cyprus, attracting celebrities and visitors from all over the world during the 1960s and early 1970s. Following the events of 1974, the area was abandoned and remained closed for decades, frozen in time behind fences and military control. Today, Varosha stands as a unique symbol of Cyprus’ divided history, with its empty hotels, silent streets, and abandoned buildings offering visitors a striking glimpse into the past.