Above: Picture of Famagausta Gate

The Famagusta Gate is a historical relic piece handed down by the island’s tumultuous history. It is also a portion of the fortified medieval town wall of Nicosia. Initially, it was labeled by the Venetians as the “Porta Guiliana”. This was a tribute to Count Savorgnano - the military engineer who created the wall.

During that time, the Gate was also recognized as the “Porta di Sotto” or the Lower Gate. This was due to the fact that there was so much dissimilarity in the leveling compared to its exterior. It is also known as the “Taht-el-kaleh” to the Turks.

During the early days, the Famagusta Gate was never really meant for any military intention. Its purpose was to be one of the entry ways going towards the capital of Cyprus – Nicosia. It is however, a very vibrant and fascinating landmark attraction as well as a great market area.

All throughout its long history, the Gate encountered a lot of the highs and lows in the metropolis. It also experienced the sadness and the happy events of its visitors and its people.

An English explorer in 1855 expresses his brilliant opinion regarding the place. In his own words, he has said that “…We had arrived at the Famagusta Gate, the handsomest of the three gates of the town; to all appearances it was a subterranean passage, for no sooner had we passed through its massive portals before we were enveloped in mistry obscurity. As the eye got accustomed to the darkness however, objects worthy of admiration and surprise presented themselves. Suddenly we came upon day-light again and found ourselves riding under a lofty cupola in the center of which was a circular opening which admitted the light. Round this sundry small tradesmen of speculative turn had established small booths where coffee, milk, bread and sherbet, and many other oriental dainties and requisites were temptingly displayed for sale…”

The Famagusta Gate remains to be Nicosia’s Cultural Center. This place continually enthralls visitors and draws the attention and interest of tourists as well as its people with its warmth and history. It is truly a fascinating place to visit.