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Situated on the north coast of Cyprus, Kyrenia, with its 6,000
year long history, unique remains of countless civilisations,
miles of natural beaches, calm sea, and mild climate is an idyllic
Mediterranean town.
Bounded to the north by the sea and to the south by the greenery
of the Besparmak (Fivefinger) Mountain range, it offers the
most magnificent scenery on the island.
Kyrenia's charming and tiny harbour, full of yachts and fishing
boats, is framed by the colossal hulk of its Crusader castle.
With the backdrop of the jagged mountains behind and the calm
sparkling sea in front, the harbour has an intoxicatingly serene
atmosphere.
Kyrenia is an easy place to while away any time of the day,
exploring shops, markets and local cafes in late morning, strolling
in the narrow cobbled alleys behind the harbour in the afternoon,
or stepping out for a brisk walk along the promenade and sea
wall in the evening.
Kyrenia Harbour is a truly inspiring place that excites the
senses. A multitude of yachts and fishing vessels rest on the
calm harbour waters, enclosed on their landward side by an array
of historic buildings that capture the timeless beauty of this
Northern Cyprus town. If you're looking for a place that exudes
old-world Mediterranean charm mixed with a touch of modern sophistication,
Kyrenia Harbour is where you'll find it.
By day, Kyrenia Harbour is a place for relaxation and contemplation.
Restaurants and cafes line the water, welcoming guests to partake
in a Turkish coffee or to sample their fine local cuisine. You
may even find yourself invited for a game of Tavli (backgammon)
by the locals at one of the many open-air cafes.
For the more adventurous, Kyrenia harbour offers access to
one of the most majestic castles in Cyprus Kyrenia Castle. Originally
constructed to defend the town from the Arab Raids in medieval
times, the castle houses a museum which is now home to many
historical artefacts and is the current resting-place of the
world's oldest shipwreck..Dating from the time of the Byzantines
Kyrenia Castle stands guard over the town at the harbour entrance.
It is surrounded by a moat and offers an insight into centuries
of Cypriot history that extends all the way back to Roman times.
Come nightfall, Kyrenia Harbour takes on a new guise. The harbour
buzzes to the sound of locals and tourists enjoying the numerous
restaurants that surround the harbour. Together with the dulcet
tones of local musicians, the aromas that waft along on the
gentle night breeze make for an intoxicating atmosphere that
is never forgotten.
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