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● NORTHERN CYPRUS · DISTRICTS INFO
Girne (Kyrenia) District
Where Mountains Meet the Sea
A postcard-perfect region known for its romantic harbor, medieval charm, and dramatic mountain backdrop. Kyrenia is where Cyprus shows off its most scenic side.
Explore Girne
History, nature, culture and local life
🏛️ Historical Background
A coastal tale written by kings, traders, and empires
🛶 Ancient Origins (c. 10th century BC)
Founded by Achaean Greeks, Girne was a coastal trading settlement known for its natural harbor.
🏰 Byzantine to Crusader Era (7th–12th century)
Kyrenia Castle built to defend against Arab raids.
Later expanded by Crusaders and Lusignans.
⚔️ Venetian Period (1489–1571)
Castle fortified with thick walls and bastions.
Trade flourished, particularly in carob export.
🕌 Ottoman Rule (1571–1878)
Girne became a multicultural town with mosques and Turkish baths.
Villages like Bellapais grew as rural centers with monasteries and gardens.
🇬🇧 British Era (1878–1960)
Harbor modernized, tourism emerged.
British-style houses and hotels still stand along the coast.
🌿 Nature, Sea & Land
A district defined by contrast — rugged peaks and calm seas
⛰️ Kyrenia Mountain Range
The Besparmak Mountains run parallel to the coast.
Scenic hikes, castles, and panoramic views.
🌊 Coastal Beauty
Rocky coves, sandy bays, and deep blue water.
Great for swimming, sailing, and sunsets.
🏡 Charming Villages
Places like Lapta, Alsancak, and Ozanköy blend tradition and tourism.
🐢 Nature Watch
Turtle nesting beaches and pine forests inland.
🏰 Main Sights & Attractions
Discover the magic of history at every turn
🏯 Kyrenia Castle
Historic fortress with shipwreck museum and sea views.
⚓ Kyrenia Old Harbor
Once a vital port for merchants and fishermen during Byzantine and Venetian times.
Today, it's a scenic promenade with cafés and yachts.
🎭 Bellapais Monastery
13th-century Gothic monastery in Bellapais village – sunset concerts here are magical.
🧙♂️ St. Hilarion Castle
Fairytale-like fortress on a mountain cliff – said to have inspired Disney’s Snow White Castle.
🏛️ Icon Museum (former Archangel Church)
Religious art housed in a beautiful former Greek Orthodox church.
🎭 Cultural Highlights
The region’s charm extends beyond its walls and mountains
🎶 Music festivals at Bellapais Monastery
Classical and folk performances in an ethereal setting.
📸 Art cafés in the Old Town
Galleries and handmade souvenirs.
🧿 Local myths & legends
Castles, sea caves, and village folklore come alive in guided tours.
🧵 Crafts & Local Products
Blending artisan heritage with modern taste
🍬 Carob syrup & Turkish delights
Sweet, sticky, and uniquely Cypriot.
🧺 Olive oil soaps & ceramics
Available in shops near the harbor and in Bellapais.
🍷 Village wine & homemade liqueurs
Try zivania, carob wine, and local citrus blends.
🏨 Tourism & Travel
Well-prepared for visitors of all styles
🏨 Accommodation
Boutique hotels in town, beach resorts in Lapta & Çatalköy, mountain lodges inland.
🍽️ Dining
Waterfront restaurants, traditional meyhanes, and romantic rooftop terraces.
🛍️ Markets & Boutiques
Stalls at the harbor, night markets, and Turkish leather & jewelry stores.
🚗 Transport & Tours
Car rentals, private transfers, and coastal boat cruises available.
CONTACTS & PUBLIC SERVICES
Public Offices in Kyrenia
Local administration, essential departments and contact details
Girne Mahkemesi
(District Court)
☎ +90 392 612 2050 (Civil Registry)
☎ +90 392 612 2051 (Criminal Registry)
Girne Motorlu Araçlar Dairesi
(Vehicle Registration Dept.)
housed together with the Girne Tax Office!