The so-called 'Othello tower' is a medieval citadel located in Famagusta, Cyprus. Its name is related to the Venetian governor Christoforo Moro (1506-08) who is believed was the model for Shakespear's Othello. The rectangular in plan castle is protected by four massive circular towers guarding its corners. The citadel architectural complex is organized in four wings enclosing a central open courtyard. Dating from the 14th century and the period of Lusignan rule over Cyprus, the castle was extensively remodeled and improved by the Venetians in 1492, under Captain Nicolo Foscari, to further strengthen the protection of the strategic port of Famagusta. Used as a residence for Lusignan officials, its remodeling in the 15th century focused in accommodating the use of artillery to protect the important harbor. The citadel and the city fell to the Ottomans after long siege in 1570-71.
The monument was reopened to the public on Thursday 02 July 2015 following the restoration program lead by UNDP and the Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage.
This is a TCCH project: www.tcchcyprus.com Implemented by UNDP: www.cy.undp.org funded by the EU: www.ec.europa.eu/cyprus
The Cyprus Institute, United Nation Development Program (UNDP), The Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage
