An extension of the Old Town’s main walls, Othello’s tower was constructed in the 12th century, during Lusignan rule, in order to protect the harbour. In 1492, the Venetians further fortified the citadel and transformed it into an artillery stronghold.
The citadel is currently closed to visitors for extensive restoration work. If it is open again by the time you visit there are various towers and artillery chambers to explore as well as a refectory and living quarters.
The tower’s name stems from a vague link to Shakespeare’s play Othello, which has a modest stage note referring to ‘a seaport in Cyprus’. Above the citadel’s impressive entrance you’ll see the Venetian Lion inscribed by its architect, Nicolò Foscarini. Leonardo da Vinci also apparently advised on the refurbishment of the tower during his visit to Cyprus in 1481.
The gorgeous mix of Venetian and Lusignan architecture inside is a prime highlight of a visit here. The internal courtyard is bordered by the Great Hall, with beautiful vaults and corroded sandstone walls on its far side. Ventilation shafts look out to the border ramparts, leading to Lusignan corridors and sealed chambers. Legend has it that fortunes still lie hidden here, buried by Venetian merchants in the face of the advancing Ottomans.
