After a relaxed morning, including some light exploring and a memorable lunch at a charming French restaurant near the small port (Bogaz Harbour) by our apartment, we decided to spend the late afternoon at the “Salamis Ruins”, just 20 minutes from where we’re staying. Renowned for some sunsets across the ruins. We arrived with high expectations—and as my iPhone couldn’t quite do the view justice, we had to chalk it up as “one for the eyes.” A few thousand years ago, Salamis was the thriving capital of Cyprus, established around 1100 BC. It withstood invasions by the Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians, and Romans, but eventually fell victim to natural disasters.
The archaeological site spans roughly a square mile, though much remains unexcavated, with some parts now claimed by the Mediterranean. As a fan of ancient history, I couldn’t help but let my imagination roam as we explored. Sitting on the top tier of the Roman theatre, which once held 15,000 spectators, I let my imagination loose into the past. These ruins offer not just history, but also a serene atmosphere for reflection, we really enjoy these ancient sites.
The following day took us to the “Kantara Castle”, the second of the three castles we planned to visit. The journey to Kantara began at sea level and slowly transitioned into a winding ascent through the Kyrenian Mountains. The higher we climbed, the narrower the road became, twisting around blind bends and promising spectacular views the closer we got to the castle. After about 50 minutes, we reached the foot of this imposing structure, standing vigil over the landscape with promises of even more breathtaking vistas from the top.
Kantara Castle’s history dates back to 1191, when Richard the Lionheart seized it from Isaak Komnenos, the Byzantine ruler of Cyprus. It remained a critical stronghold until the 16th century when the Venetian military shifted focus from high vantage points to artillery-based defenses. The climb to the summit took us about 25 minutes, with plenty of stunning stops to take in the panoramic views along the way.
The castle itself was remarkably intact, with most of its walls still standing and one and a half towers still prominent. Despite its primary function as a fortress, there were also fascinating remnants of rooms and spaces that hinted at life within its walls. Perhaps the most unique aspect of Kantara was the ability to walk the entire perimeter, offering unparalleled views of the island’s two coastlines. A great weekend.
Dream Chasers 