Kyrenia Castle in North Cyprus lies at the entrance of the harbour, gracefully defending the port and the ancient city of Kyrenia. With its imposing size and impenetrable walls it is a truly magnificent feat of ancient military architecture. Built by the Byzantines to protect the town from the frequent Arab attacks, in the years to come it was systemically amplified and reinforced by the Lusignans, Venetians, Ottomans, and finally the British Empire.

Within its walls lies the famous shipwreck museum. It contains the remains of a ship that dates back to the time of Alexander the Great (300BC). It is claimed to be the oldest commercial ship that has ever been recovered from the seas. Scientists have been able to establish that the ship was a merchant vessel in the eastern Mediterranean approximately 2300 years ago. The ship was discovered in 1967 and brought to the surface in 1969. Its cargo of amphoras, stone mills, almonds and various seeds are all on display including the carefully restored vessel. The dungeons and archaeological museum are also a must see.