Salonica View is organising a special historical and cultural excursion to Famagusta, exploring its fascinating medieval Walled City and the famous Ghost Town of Varosha.
A Few Words About Our Excursion
Our journey will begin in Nicosia, with an additional pick-up stop at Pascal in Larnaca. We will then head towards the Pergamos checkpoint via Pyla.
We will travel through the occupied villages of Prastio Pyrga, Stylloi and Engomi before reaching the medieval Walled City of Famagusta and the enclosed area of Varosha.
We will have the opportunity to walk through the famous Ghost Town, discovering a place deeply connected to the history of Cyprus.
Inside the Walled City, we will explore important historical landmarks, including the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, the impressive Venetian Walls and Palace, and Othello's Tower, associated with Shakespeare's famous play of the same name.
After exploring the city, participants will have some free time to relax.
We will then begin our return journey from Famagusta towards Nicosia and the government-controlled areas of Cyprus.
A Few Words About Famagusta
Famagusta is located on the eastern coast of Cyprus, along the bay that shares its name.
The area's ancient history is closely associated with Salamis, which was later known as Arsinoe and Constantia.
The name Famagusta (Ammochostos in Greek), meaning "buried in the sand", has been used since the 4th century AD.
Between 1960 and 1974, Famagusta was an internationally renowned tourist destination, famous for its beautiful golden sandy beaches.
Before the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, Famagusta had a population of approximately 40,000 inhabitants and was the third-largest city on the island.
Following the events of 1974, the Greek Cypriot residents were displaced from their homes, with many settling in towns and villages in the government-controlled areas of Cyprus.
Until 14 August 1974, Famagusta was home to the island's main commercial port and was one of Cyprus's most important tourism centres.
At that time, approximately 45 of the 100 hotels operating across Cyprus were located in Famagusta, highlighting the city's significance as a major tourist destination.
Historical Points of Interest
Cathedral of St. Nicholas
The Cathedral of St. Nicholas is one of the most impressive examples of Gothic architecture in Cyprus.
Built according to French architectural traditions, the cathedral served as the coronation site for the Frankish kings of Cyprus when they were crowned Kings of Jerusalem.
Originally, the cathedral was decorated with frescoes and sculptures. However, following the Ottoman conquest of Cyprus in 1571, many of these decorations were destroyed, and the cathedral was converted into a mosque.
Today, the building remains one of Famagusta's most remarkable historical monuments.
Othello's Tower
Othello's Tower forms part of the historic fortifications of Famagusta Castle.
It is a square-shaped fortress with four towers at its corners and a separate moat.
During the Frankish period, one end of the chain used to close the entrance to the city's inner harbour was attached to this fortress.
The tower takes its name from William Shakespeare's famous tragedy Othello, which is traditionally associated with Famagusta.
In Shakespeare's play, Othello is a Venetian military commander stationed in Cyprus.
Venetian Walls
The impressive Venetian Walls surround the historic city of Famagusta and represent one of the most important examples of medieval military architecture on the island.
Lusignan Palace
The remains of the Lusignan Palace, also known as the Royal Palace, reflect the city's importance during the Frankish and Venetian periods.
Famagusta Greek Women's Lyceum
A historical and cultural landmark associated with the Greek Cypriot community of Famagusta.
Participation Fee
€25 per person
Payment will be made on the bus.
The Price Includes
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Excursion organisation and escort
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Transportation by bus
What to Bring
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Valid ID card or passport (mandatory for crossing the checkpoint). Your ID card must not expire within the next two months.
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Personal belongings
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Snacks
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Water
Important Information
Note 1 – Booking and Departure Point
When making your reservation, please indicate in the message which bus departure point you have selected.
Note 2 – Safety Instructions
For the smooth operation of the excursion and for safety reasons, all participants must follow the instructions provided by the group escorts.
Note 3 – Weather Conditions and Cancellation
If the excursion is cancelled due to adverse weather conditions, it will be rescheduled for another date.
Participants who are unable to attend on the new date will receive a refund.
If weather conditions prevent the excursion from taking place on the rescheduled date, the event will be permanently cancelled and all participants will receive a full refund.
Note 4 – Photography and Social Media
Photographs from our excursions are shared on our website and social media platforms after each event.
By participating in a Salonica View excursion, you agree to the publication of photographs in which you may appear.
If you do not wish to appear in published photographs, please inform us in advance.
Note 5 – Cancellation Policy
In the event of cancellation less than 48 hours before the excursion or failure to attend, participants will be required to cover the full participation fee.
This policy helps cover operational expenses and reservations that have already been made.
Note 6 – Programme Adjustments
The group escorts reserve the right to adjust the stops and schedule according to the available time, without omitting important points of interest.
Booking
RESERVE YOUR PLACE HERE: ΕΔΩ
Once you have completed your reservation, we will contact you approximately 6–7 days before the excursion to confirm your details and participation.
Important Information About All Our Excursions
Four days before the excursion, usually on Wednesday, an official update will be sent to all participants confirming whether the excursion will take place.
Final confirmation depends on:
