Othello Castle, Medieval fortress in Famagusta, Cyprus
Othello Castle is a medieval fortress in Famagusta organized around a central courtyard with four circular towers surrounded by high defensive walls. The structure displays features from multiple periods, with storage chambers and fortifications designed to protect against maritime attacks.
The fortress was built in the 14th century under Henry I of Cyprus and underwent significant modifications during Venetian rule. The Venetians replaced the original square towers with circular ones to better withstand artillery fire.
The castle carries a name inspired by Shakespeare's character Othello, referencing a famous play set in a Cypriot seaport. This literary connection makes the site a unique intersection between military history and literary tradition.
The fortress is open daily to visitors and allows exploration of the defensive towers, underground chambers, and central courtyard. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the terrain is uneven and climbing stairs is required.
Scattered across the grounds are stone and metal cannonballs from Spanish and Ottoman artillery, silent witnesses to past sieges. These remnants clearly demonstrate how intense the battles for control of this strategic location were.
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