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Revive the Historic Walled City of Famagusta

Not yet published by Vanessa Boiser

Country: Cyprus

The Experience


The historic walled city of Famagusta located in northern Cyprus is home to impressive medieval architecture once compared to the great city of Constantinople. In 1974, this famous city and its nearby playground for the rich and famous, literally took a standstill. Turkish armies conquered nearby Varosha. No one got hurt in the siege because the Cypriots evaded the forces by passing through ancient tunnels going to the historic walled city of Famagusta where they sought refuge. The city’s majestic walls are mute witness to the people’s plight. Presently, the once prosperous Varosha has frozen in time while the historic walled city of Famagusta opens its door to the public and quaint shops and restaurants line the cobbled walks of the city. The historic walled city of Famagusta is once again open to tourists from around the world. One may drive the whole way into the walled city to explore but it is recommended to discover its treasures on foot.

Photos

Puzzle

When to Go

The best time to go to the historic walled city of Famagusta is arguably during April when a children’s festival is also being held since 2009, almost 5000 visitors go to the place on foot and participate in different contests and activities. During April, the weather in Cyprus is amazing and everything you need is within reach in Famagusta, you won’t even have a need for a car. The festival is aided by the international organization to revive the old vitality of the historic walled city of Famagusta. Families with little children will definitely enjoy walking along the marina, shopping and wonder about the preserved structures in Famagusta as well as watching festivities unfold in the city. There are a number of tour operators in Cyprus that cater to day visits to the historic walled city of Famagusta and its neighboring areas but it is better to go there by car and visit the old Famagusta and Varosha during the day. Varosha aptly called the “ghost town” has stayed the same as it was since that historic day in 1974. It is also worth a visit if you have the time. There is also a “new” resort town of Famagusta where people live peacefully and enjoy great beaches.

Odds n' Ends

There is no particular rule about clothing, wear clothes that are appropriate for the weather. During April, temperature is cool in the evening. You will do a lot of walking in the historic walled city of Famagusta, so you might want to bring pairs of comfortable shoes and sandals. Famagustans like to dress up but won’t be bothered by what tourists wear. The prices for services and accommodations are in pounds but the currency most often used is the Cyprus Lira. You may also choose to stay in the “new” Famagusta where there are many accommodations dotting the area.

Want a Guide?

Red Bus Cyprus
Red Bus Cyprus Website: www.redbuscyprus.com Email: info@redbuscyprus.com
Famagusta Walled City Organization
Famagusta Walled City Organization Website: http://www.famagustawalledcity.org

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Language Guides

Turkish is one of the languages spoken in Cyprus. If you know of a freely available phrase book or podcast for one of the missing languages, let us know!

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