The Lusignans built and expanded the castle in the 13th century, after the 1222 earthquake destroyed Saranta Kolones about 600 meters to the northeast. The article gives the date only as mid-13th century and calls the style medieval. The Genoese occupied it from 1373 and raised its walls. The Venetians destroyed the western tower in 1570, and the Ottomans rebuilt it in 1592.
The main rectangular tower measures about 131 by 66 feet (40 by 20 m) around a closed courtyard. A small square roof tower measures 49 by 33 feet (15 by 10 m). In Ottoman times twelve roof ramparts held cannons. The article does not name materials.
The British used it as a salt depot from 1878. The Department of Antiquities has cared for it since 1935, and it hosts the annual Paphos Outdoor Cultural Festival in September.
Comments