Famagusta Walls: a practical note for Gazimağusa

Mighty walls encircling old Famagusta. Start at Land Gate toward Othello Tower: sea and old town views together.

The Famagusta Walls are the mighty fortifications encircling the old city, reinforced during the Venetian period. Thickened in the 16th century to withstand cannon fire, the walls, with their bastions, moats and monumental gates, reflect the most advanced military architecture of their time.

Starting at the Land Gate and walking toward Othello Tower, you can see much of the walls. Huge bastions such as the Martinengo Bastion offer views of both the old city and the sea. As the stone heats up in summer, a hat and water are wise; the best light is late afternoon and sunset.

What to see

• Venetian-era bastions and moats
• The Land Gate
• Martinengo Bastion
• Sea and city views from the ramparts

How to get there

In Gazimağusa, Famagusta Walls is easiest with car hire or a short taxi. Map and hours: Famagusta Walls.

Small notes

• Hot stone: hat and water.
• Same route as Othello Tower.
• Evening light is best for photos.

Dinner: restaurants. Other stops: Cyprus guide. A place to stay: housing.