Knights, Templars and Hospitallers

Three centuries as a Crusader state. Richard the Lionheart 1191, Templars, Lusignan dynasty (300 years), Hospitallers at Kolossi producing Commandaria wine.

Key Castles

Kolossi (€2.50, Limassol). Limassol Castle (€4.50, Richard's wedding). St. Hilarion (north, spectacular mountaintop – Disney's Snow White inspiration). Buffavento (highest, 950m). Kantara (east, atmospheric).

This was exactly our experience: Richard the Lionheart 1191, Templars, Lusignan dynasty (300 years), Hospitallers at Kolossi producing Commandaria wine. Key Castles Kolossi (€2.

– History enthusiast from Bremen, in Nicosia since 2022

Day Trip

South: Kolossi + Kourion half-day. North: St. Hilarion + Kyrenia + Buffavento full day (via Nicosia checkpoint, separate car insurance).

Crusader Castles of Cyprus

Locations: Limassol, Nicosia
Topics: Knights, Templars and Hospitallers, Key Castles, Day Trip

CMC Practical Tip

Richard the Lionheart 1191, Templars, Lusignan dynasty (300 years), Hospitallers at Kolossi producing Commandaria wine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Worth driving to the north?

Absolutely. St. Hilarion is the most spectacular castle on the island. Day trip via Nicosia checkpoint is straightforward.

Suitable for children?

Kolossi: yes. St. Hilarion: from 6-8 (steep but kids love the knight fantasy). Buffavento: fit older children only.

Entry costs?

All castles under €5 each. Full culture day under €15 total entry.

How CMC Supports You

At CMC Certus Management Consultants, we are here for you – not only for tax and legal questions, but also for all practical topics of everyday life in Cyprus. Our team in Larnaca and Pafos knows the local conditions first-hand.

As your local contact, we handle: company formation and management, tax advisory and Non-Dom applications, ongoing bookkeeping and tax returns, support with authorities, and referrals to estate agents, lawyers, doctors and tradespeople.

Further Reading