Girne Kalesi

Antiphonitis Church Kyrenia / Northern Cyprus Named after the Greek word meaning "Christ Who Answers," the Antiphonitis Church is hidden within a steep valley 8 km east of Kyrenia, near the town of Esentepe. Even the road leading there is an experience in itself: narrow, winding, surrounded by pine and olive trees. Built in the late 12th century, this structure distinctly stands out from other Byzantine churches across the island. So, what makes it different? First and foremost, its architecture. The church was designed with a circular dome resting on eight columns, an arrangement quite unusual for the period. It is believed that local masters and artists were involved in its construction, a notion supported by the unique touches evident in the structure. The church was later expanded: in the 14th and 15th centuries , during the reign of the Lusignan dynasty, a barrel-vaulted narthex and portico were added to the structure. These additions represent one of the rare instances where the Byzantine essence met Western Christian architectural understanding. Very few structures bear the marks of different periods simultaneously; Antiphonitis is one of them. Wall Paintings and the Pantocrator Fresco Upon entering, the first thing to catch your eye will be the depictions of saints covering the walls. These scenes are believed to be inspired by biblical narratives; the facial expressions of the figures, color choices, and composition style bear the typical characteristics of Byzantine iconography. In the very center of the dome is the fresco of Christ Pantocrator ; this iconographic theme, meaning "Ruler of All," was placed in the dome in Byzantine churches so that the divine gaze would encompass the entire space. Unfortunately, some of these paintings have not survived intact to the present day. During Cyprus's political division after 1974, some frescoes were damaged, and a portion was torn from the walls by smugglers and sold on international markets. Although some of these pieces have been recovered after years of legal battles, the destruction they left behind is still visible. Where is Antiphonitis Church? The church is located in a valley, approximately 8 km south of the town of Esentepe, which is part of the Kyrenia district. Direction signs are available along the way; however, renting a car makes the visit much easier. Since public transport access is quite limited, it is recommended to go by private vehicle.

## Bellapais Abbey Beylerbeyi / Kyrenia - TRNC **Bellapais Abbey**, quietly nestled at the foot of the Five Finger Mountains, was constructed between 1158 and 1205. Today, this remarkable structure hosts various music festivals and classical music concerts, making it one of Northern Cyprus's most striking historical sites. Everyone who steps into the Abbey is swept back through past centuries, losing track of time. ## Layers of History: Gothic Architecture in the Near East One of the finest examples of Gothic architectural style in the Near East, **Bellapais Abbey**'s first inhabitants were Augustinian monks who migrated from Jerusalem. Between 1267 and 1284, King Hugh III of France added new sections to the structure, giving the Abbey its present-day appearance. The central courtyard and its surrounding cloisters were built by Hugh IV between 1324 and 1359. Following the Ottoman conquest of the island, the Abbey was transferred to the Cypriot Orthodox Church, and for many years, only the church section remained functional. ## Stepping Inside: What You'll Discover Your first step into **Bellapais Abbey** brings you to a gate and a spacious courtyard. The church in the corner of the courtyard has stood since the 13th century; despite bearing the weight of centuries, the structure remains remarkably robust. The frescoes on the Abbey's facade date back to the 15th century. Additionally, a large, rectangular refectory is located within the structure; this area is considered one of the most accomplished examples of **Gothic art**. The pulpit where the monk delivered sermons during meals still stands in place. Passing through the west gate of the courtyard, you can reach the kitchen, cellar, and lavatories on the lower floor. To the east of the central courtyard is the monks' common room and study. The column in the center of this room is believed to belong to a Byzantine church. On the upper floors of the Abbey, there are dormitories and areas for storing valuables. ## A Kyrenia View: Bellapais by Night **Bellapais Abbey** can be seen with the naked eye from many points in Kyrenia. As dusk falls, if you look towards the **Five Finger Mountains**, you'll immediately spot the Abbey sparkling brightly with its special illumination. This view forms one of the city's most recognizable silhouettes. Having come all the way to Cyprus, can one really afford to miss this magnificent structure? Appealing to a wide audience, from Gothic architecture enthusiasts and history buffs to classical music lovers and photography aficionados, Bellapais truly deserves a top spot on your itinerary. ### Where is Bellapais Abbey?

Salamis Ancient City Famagusta / TRNC The Ruins of Salamis , mentioned in the Bible , were founded in a basin 6 kilometers north of Famagusta, near the Kanlıdere river which originates from the Troodos Mountains . Stepping onto this site today, you can feel thousands of years of history piled layer upon layer. Teucer, the founder of Salamis Ancient City , is, according to legend, the son of King Telamon of Salamis island. He was exiled from his homeland by his father for failing to prevent his brother's suicide during the Trojan War. Remains dating back to the 11th century BC clearly indicate that the city was founded during this period. It is understood that the Phoenicians were a dominant power on the island during that era. From 708 BC, the entire island, including the city of Salamis, fell under Assyrian rule. After Egyptian dominance ended in 699 BC, the city remained independent for a short time, but when Persian rule began in 525 BC, Cyprus once again submitted to foreign governance. During the time of Alexander the Great , who embarked on his Eastern campaign, Salamis was liberated from Persian subjugation; however, this freedom was not permanent. In 294 BC, Ptolemy seized control of all Cyprus , establishing his dynasty in this city. Salamis stood out as the island's capital for many years. But with the end of the Ptolemaic era, its importance began to wane, and the role of capital was transferred to 'Paphos' until the 4th century AD. The great earthquakes of 76-77 AD rendered the city uninhabitable. The Jewish revolts that erupted in 116 AD almost completely dismantled Salamis. Emperor Constantinus II of that period reorganized the ruins, shrinking the city and renaming it Constantia . Between 368-403 AD, the city once again became the capital of Cyprus; however, this life, lasting until 647 AD, came to an end with Arab raids and earthquakes , and the city was completely abandoned. Salamis Walls, Harbor, and Gymnasium The Salamis Walls and Harbor were built in the 7th century to protect the northern and southwestern areas of the city from Arab raids. The Salamis Gymnasium , believed to have been constructed in the 2nd century, is a magnificent structure located in the northern part of the city. Marble columns from the Roman period still stand today, reminding visitors of the splendor of that era. Salamis Amphitheater The exact construction date of this amphitheater, built during the Augustan period in the southern part of the city, is unknown; however, records show that it underwent major restoration in the 1st and 2nd centuries . Destroyed by earthquakes in 332 AD, its stones were later removed and used in the construction of baths. The Salamis Amphitheater consists of three main parts: the stage building, the orchestra, and the seating area. Its acoustics, still remarkably good, offer a striking example of the ancient world's engineering prowess. Other Important Structures Roman Villa: A two-story structure built by the Romans. Byzantine Cistern: This funnel-shaped structure contains 6th-century frescoes; the building comprises three sections and is located southeast of the Roman Villa. Nicocreon Monument: Built in honor of Nicocreon, the last ruler of Salamis. Is it possible to see this entire vast area in a single day? There's so much to explore that most visitors only manage to see a portion of the site. Discovery and Excavation Process Discovered hidden beneath tree roots and a thick layer of soil in the late 19th century, Salamis was largely brought to light between 1952 and 1974. Excavation work, halted in 1974, resumed in 1998 under the leadership of Ankara University, thus continuing the site's story from where it left off. Where is Salamis Ancient City? Photos: