Othello Castle, also known as Othello’s Tower, is a formidable medieval fortress that guards the entrance to the historic harbour of Famagusta in Northern Cyprus. Originally built by the Lusignans in the 14th century as a citadel to protect the port, it was significantly remodeled and strengthened by the Venetians in the 15th century. The castle is a powerful example of Renaissance military architecture, but its fame is inextricably linked to literature. It is widely believed to be the setting for William Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, Othello, lending it an aura of romance and intrigue that has captivated visitors for centuries.

Name and Address

• Name: Othello Castle (also known as Othello’s Tower or Famagusta Castle).
• Address: Located within the ancient sea walls of the Old City of Famagusta, Northern Cyprus.

How to Get There

The castle is a central landmark within the walled city of Famagusta and is easy to find.

• By Foot (Recommended): The best way to reach the castle is on foot while exploring the historic walled city of Famagusta. It is located in the northeastern corner of the city, right next to the harbour.
• By Car/Taxi: Taxis can take you to the entrances of the walled city, from which the castle is a short walk. Parking is available outside the main city walls.
• Visitor Tip: A visit to Othello Castle can be combined with a tour of the other major sites within Famagusta’s impressive Venetian walls, including the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque (formerly St. Nicholas’ Cathedral). Allow about an hour to explore the castle and its ramparts.

Landscape and Architecture

The landscape is a historic port, and the architecture is that of a robust, multi-layered sea fortress.

• Harbour Citadel: The castle is a citadel integrated into the larger defensive walls of Famagusta. It was designed to protect the harbour, which was once the wealthiest port in the Eastern Mediterranean. A deep moat originally surrounded the castle, making it an “impenetrable fortress.”
• Lusignan and Venetian Design: The castle’s core structure is a square layout with towers at each corner, dating to the Lusignan (Crusader) period. This includes the grand, Gothic-style Great Hall or refectory. The Venetians later modified the fortress for modern artillery, replacing the square towers with formidable circular bastions (rondels) that could better withstand cannon fire.
• Architectural Features: Above the main entrance, a marble relief of the Lion of St. Mark, the symbol of Venice, is prominently displayed, along with the name of the Venetian captain who directed the alterations in 1492. Inside the courtyard, visitors can see ancient stone and iron cannonballs.
• The Ramparts: Visitors can climb to the top of the castle’s thick walls and bastions. The ramparts offer stunning panoramic views of the Famagusta harbour, the Mediterranean Sea, and the historic “ghost town” of Varosha in the distance.

What Makes It Famous

Othello Castle is famous for its powerful Venetian architecture and its immortalization in one of the greatest works of English literature.

• Shakespeare’s “Othello”: Its primary claim to fame is its connection to William Shakespeare’s tragedy, Othello, the Moor of Venice. The play is set in a “seaport in Cyprus,” and this castle is traditionally held to be the location that inspired the setting. The name “Othello Castle” was adopted during the British colonial period.
• Venetian Military Engineering: The castle is a superb example of Venetian military architecture. The massive circular bastions and thick walls were state-of-the-art for their time, designed to defend against Ottoman cannon fire.
• A Key Mediterranean Fortress: For centuries, the castle was a critical military stronghold that controlled the most important and wealthiest port in Cyprus, making it a key strategic prize for the powers vying for control of the Eastern Mediterranean.

Differences from Other Wonders

Othello Castle offers a unique experience that distinguishes it from other castles in Cyprus.

• Literary Fame vs. Purely Historical Significance: No other castle on the island has such a strong and famous connection to a major work of world literature. This literary association gives Othello Castle a unique cultural resonance that sets it apart from the historical significance of Kolossi Castle or the archaeological importance of Paphos Castle.
• Integrated City Citadel vs. Standalone Fort: Othello Castle is not a standalone fortress but a citadel—the strongest point within the massive, fortified walls of the entire city of Famagusta. This is different from the more isolated nature of Kyrenia Castle or Kolossi Castle.
• Venetian Artillery Fortress vs. Crusader Keep: While Kolossi Castle is a classic example of a medieval Crusader keep, Othello Castle is a prime example of a later, more advanced Venetian artillery fortress, built to withstand a different type of warfare.