Buffavento Castle, Medieval castle ruin in Kyrenia Mountains, Cyprus

Buffavento Castle is a castle ruin in the Kyrenia Mountains standing at around 930 meters elevation. The structure consists of an upper and lower section linked by approximately 600 stone steps.

The exact date of construction is unknown; D. M. Metcalf argues from middle Byzantine (11th–12th century) features that it was likely built with Saint Hilarion Castle in the late 11th century, after the Seljuk advance. Other theories range from 965 to the early 12th century. Richard the Lionheart took it in 1191, and it fell into disuse under Venetian rule in the 14th century.

The Italian name Buffavento means 'Defier of the Winds', possibly borrowed from a monastery in Koutzoventi village. A Lusignan legend says a Cypriot noblewoman built it to shelter from the Knights Templar in 1191, so it was also called Leonne (Lion's Castle) or Queen's Castle. It served as a watchtower for pirate raids and a prison; in 1308 the knight Anseau of Brie was held here.

The climb from the parking area takes about 20 minutes via stone steps and requires sturdy footwear for the steep terrain. It is wise to bring plenty of water and start early in the day during warm weather.

The fortress was positioned to maintain sight lines to nearby castles such as St. Hilarion to the west and Kantara to the east. This network of fortifications allowed communication across large distances during medieval times.