History
The citadel was built in the 14th century by the Lusignan kings of Cyprus to defend the harbour of Famagusta, then one of the richest cities in the eastern Mediterranean. After Venice took over the island it was thoroughly remodelled: in 1492, under the governor Niccolò Foscarini, round towers suited to artillery were added. In 1570–1571 Famagusta withstood an Ottoman siege for almost a year before surrendering in August 1571. Under Ottoman rule the citadel served as a fortress and prison, and it has recently undergone a thorough restoration.
What to see
The citadel adjoins Famagusta's city walls on the harbour side. Above the entrance is a relief of the lion of St Mark bearing the name of the Venetian governor. Inside, a Gothic hall from the Lusignan period survives, and the walls and towers look out over the harbour and the old town with the former Cathedral of St Nicholas.
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