Namık Kemal Prison

Cyprus


This former prison housed Turkish poet, playwright and dissident Namık Kemal (1840–88) for nearly four years after his writings offended the sultan. Inside there are only a couple of dusty exhibits and portraits, and one small room set up with a mannequin of the man himself, so unless you have a particular interest – and read Turkish – you can save the entrance fee.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Cyprus attractions

1. Palazzo del Provveditore

0.03 MILES

The ruined arches and supporting columns (taken from Salamis) of the Palazzo del Provveditore sit opposite Lala Mustafa Paşa mosque. The triple-arched…

2. St Peter & St Paul Church

0.04 MILES

Although not open to the public, the magnificent facade of this mammoth 14th-century church, which has survived intact, gives you a good impression of…

3. Lala Mustafa Paşa Camii

0.06 MILES

The former Cathedral of Agios Nikolaos (St Nicholas) is the finest example of Lusignan Gothic architecture on the island, built between 1298 and 1326…

4. St George of the Greeks Church

0.11 MILES

The ruins of this once-stately and splendidly Gothic church are one of the most picturesque in the walled city. You can still make out the faint outlines…

5. St George of the Latins Church

0.16 MILES

Sitting incongruously amid a traffic intersection, St George of the Latins is one of Famagusta’s oldest churches. The remaining walls with their…

6. Nestorian Church

0.18 MILES

Built between 1360 and 1369 this Nestorian-order church has a sublimely well-preserved bell tower and squat golden-stoned facade.

7. Othello’s Tower

0.22 MILES

An extension of the Old Town’s walls, Othello’s Tower was constructed during Lusignan rule, in order to protect the harbour. In 1492 the Venetians further…

8. Venetian Walls

0.22 MILES

Defining the Old Town, these imposing ramparts were constructed by the Venetians in the early 16th century. Although over 15m high and up to 8m thick, and…