Saint Hilarion Castle in Northern Cyprus

Saint Hilarion Castle — is one of the three largest castles in Northern Cyprus and the best-preserved of them. Thanks to its convenient access, developed infrastructure and impressive views, it is considered the most visited castle on the island.

The fortress is located in the Kyrenia mountain range and offers panoramic views of Kyrenia and the entire northern coast. The area is large, with many levels and passages, so it is best to allow at least half a day for a visit.

• General information about the castle
• History of the castle
• What to see inside
• How to get there
• Entrance fee

General information about the castle

The castle is located at an altitude of about 700 metres above sea level and consists of three levels, each of which served its own purpose — from utility rooms and barracks to the royal chambers.

Thanks to its location, the fortress was considered virtually impregnable and played an important role in the island's defence for several centuries.

Today, Saint Hilarion is known not only as one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Northern Cyprus, but also as a place that, according to one popular theory, inspired Disney artists when creating the castle from the animated film «Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs».

History of the castle

The history of Saint Hilarion Castle began as early as the 11th century, when the first Byzantine fortifications were built on the mountain summit around a monastery founded in honour of the hermit monk Hilarion.

Together with Buffavento and Kantara castles, it formed part of the northern coast defence system: the fortresses maintained communication using signal fires and warned of approaching enemy ships. After the Lusignan dynasty came to power, the castle was rebuilt, turning it not only into a powerful fortress but also into a summer royal residence.

The Siege of Isaac Komnenos
In 1191, during the Third Crusade, the Byzantine ruler of Cyprus, Isaac Komnenos, took refuge in Saint Hilarion Castle after the landing of Richard the Lionheart. However, he soon surrendered the fortress, and Cyprus came under the control of the Crusaders, marking the beginning of the Lusignan dynasty's almost three-century rule.

Three levels of the fortress
The castle was built on three levels, each of which had its own purpose. The lower section was used by the garrison and domestic services, the middle section included storerooms and barracks, while the upper section was intended for the royal family. This arrangement made it possible to defend each level independently of the others.

Why the fortress was abandoned
After Cyprus came under the rule of the Republic of Venice at the end of the 15th century, the need for mountain fortresses practically disappeared. The main focus was placed on strengthening coastal cities, and Saint Hilarion gradually lost its military importance and was abandoned.

What to see inside

The castle grounds are multi-level and quite extensive. Walls, towers, utility buildings and living quarters have been preserved here.

Be sure to climb to the very top, where the remains of the royal chambers and observation towers are located. From here, some of the best views of Northern Cyprus open up.

How to get there

You can drive practically right up to the entrance to the castle. There is a car park and a small café nearby.
Location

The most convenient way is to travel from the Nicosia side: there will be a turn-off to the left from the road towards Kyrenia, and numerous signs afterwards will keep you from getting lost.

• If you do not have a car, you can rent one through the online service GetRentacar or directly from one of the car rental companies in Northern Cyprus.

Entrance fee

Saint Hilarion Castle is open daily from 09:00 to 18:00 (in summer, access may be extended until 18:30–18:45). The entrance ticket costs 150 TL for adults and 50 TL for students.