Kolossi Castle, Limassol, Cyprus

Kolossi Castle was a former Crusader castle possibly built in 1210 by the Frankish military, when the land of Kolossi was given by King Hugh I to the Knights of the Order of St John of Jerusalem (Hospitallers). Owing to rivalry among the factions in the Crusader Kingdom of Cyprus, the castle was taken by the Knights Templar in 1306, but returned to the Hospitallers in 1313 following the abolition of the Templars. The present castle was built in 1454 by the Hospitallers under the Commander of Kolossi, Louis de Magnac, whose arms can be seen carved into the castle's walls. It held great strategic importance in the Middle Ages, and contained large facilities for the production of sugar from the local sugarcane, one of Cyprus's main exports in the period.

The castle today consists of a single three-storey keep with an attached rectangular enclosure or bailey about 30 by 40 metres. It is a fine example of medieval military architecture and directly connected with a number of important events, which constitute various interesting folds of the agelong and stormy history of Cyprus.

References:

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User Reviews

Ayman El Baitam (2 years ago)
This castle was built in 1210. It remains in an amazing condition as of today. The castle comprise of 3 floors with a nice view of the coast from the top.

Παναγιώτα Γερασιμίδου (2 years ago)
If you go to Cyprus and like castles, i recommend. You can go there by bus or if you rent a car. There's also an entrance for wheelchair users, but apart from that the castle isnt accessible. If you want you can also walk around the castle The ticket is very cheap. The surrounding place and the toilets are clean. Theres things to read in every room Be careful of the circle staircase, cause it's somewhat steep to use.

Elena Larionova (2 years ago)
The castle is nice, but it is not clear why it us famous. There are no signs with explanations. There is an interactive board which shows a short video which only says that the castle was used for defence. It is also not clear how the rooms were used, why they are this shape. There is a rooftop with a 360 view from it. The stairs inside is very steep, definitely not for elderly people or small children. There is a parking nearby

Fobby (2 years ago)
A good place to stop or visit if you are visiting other ancient places in the area. A small site so doesn’t take too long to visit. Some steep steps to get to the top. Very cheep entry fee and children are free.

Lucus Ratcliffe (3 years ago)
Very nice little castle, €2.50 per person, free literature explaining the history of the castle. If your passing definitely a place a to stop Free parking on site and a little cafe by the entrance.

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