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Learn more about the history of Cyprus on a visit to the Turkish-controlled northern region of the island. Visit the archaeological site of Salamis & see the abandoned town of Famagusta.

Highlights

• Explore Salamis, an ancient Greek city-state on the east coast of Cyprus
• Visit the 5th century Monastery of St Barnabas, a notable pilgrimage site
• Discover Famagusta old town with some impressive remains of the past
• Visit the ‘ghost town' of Varosha, once a popular resort, for a guided tour
• Expert local guide with an unrivalled knowledge of Cyprus and its history

Description

This tour to the northern part of Cyprus flits through multiple layers of history – ancient, medieval and the 1970s. The stars of the show are the ruins of the classical city of Salamis and the old town of Famagusta, plus the ‘ghost town' of Varosha. Stavroula, one of our expert local guides, says, 'the Famagusta area is rich in treasures from antiquity to the Middle Ages and beyond. According to local lore, people were so wealthy in medieval times that they built 365 churches to praise God each day for their lifestyle of ease and plenty.' Your adventure starts in Salamis, a city founded in classical times that served as the capital of Cyprus for over a thousand years. Here, you'll explore the ancient roads and ruined temples that once thronged with people in this busy metropolis. The partially restored amphitheatre is a must-see, providing a glimpse into the past when performances and festivals were held here. Next, you'll head to the 5th century Monastery of St Barnabas, where you'll visit its icon museum with examples dating back to the Byzantine period. Next, there's a short guided walk through the haunting former seaside town of Varosha where time has stood still for decades. This once popular beach resort has lain abandoned for over 50 years. After free time for lunch, you'll explore Famagusta, a city that was once one of the wealthiest in the Mediterranean. Your guide will show you sights such as the Venetian castle and the Gothic cathedral-turned mosque.

Includes

Transport Professional guide Full insurance cover for travelling in the northern part of Cyprus Admission fees

Important Information

• Please note, single parent families or those travelling without both parents need to provide extra documentation for anyone under the age of 18 when travelling into the north of Cyprus. This includes a 'letter of authorisation' from the missing parent, as well as supporting documents including birth certificate of the child, passport copy of the missing parent or a copy of a court order. Templates of these letters are readily available on search engines however we recommend you consult a lawyer prior to travelling on holiday
• A valid passport or EU ID card is required on the day of travel
• There will be no visit inside Othello's Tower
• Please note that the operational program is subject to change
• Just so you know, because of local restrictions at Strovillia checkpoint, only passport holders from EU member states, the UK, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland can travel to and from the occupied northern part of Cyprus..

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund