CYPRUS: THE KOLOSSI CASTLE

Another famous historic site in the area of Limassol is Kolossi, a citadel with a characteristic square form.

The interior of the first courtyard reveals vaults of refined architecture.

The citadel was protected by thick ramparts, which were also used as warehouses or stables.

Kolossi was built in the 13th century by the Knights of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem.

After being driven out of Palestine by the Arabs, these knights found refuge in Cyprus, before eventually settling on the island of Rhodes, and later in Malta, where they became better known as the Knights of the Order of Malta.

Now, let’s enter the Square Tower and explore its intriguing interior...

Here is the main hall, where one can imagine the life of the knights who divided their time between defending Christianity against Islam, caring for the wounded and sick, and tending to the local vineyard

"In this other room, one can notice a period painting in the background depicting the Crucifixion of Jesus.

Several staircases allow access to the different levels, and even...

To go out on the terrace, at the top of the tower.

Nowadays, there are no more Crusader knights at Kolossi, but a few brave cats stand guard!

All photos of Kolossi Castle © 1996 - 2013 by Richard Soberka