
The major resorts of Kyrenia and Famagusta are the most popular and for the last thirty five years have absorbed the largest share of tourism. Kyrenia is a city in Northern Cyprus. The port is known to have been very busy in the past, but today is mostly used with tourist fare. The surrounding properties are mostly restaurants with outside tables by the sea. Kyrenia Castle, which is located in the eastern part of the city, is also very famous. It was built during Roman times and was used by the Byzantines, Crusaders, Venetians, Ottomans and the British. The castle towers were built by the Venetians. Near the city is the Kyrenia mountain, where the castles of Buffavento, Saint Hilarion and Cantara are located. The city is considered the pearl of Northern Cyprus.