St-George

St. George of the Latins, one of Famagusta’s oldest churches, is located at a traffic intersection in the northern part of the old city, near Othello’s Tower. Its remaining walls, featuring distinctive lancet windows, exemplify early Gothic architecture.

While the exact date of construction is unknown, evidence of a fortified parapet suggests it was built in the late 13th century, likely using materials from Salamis. The design is thought to be inspired by the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, a renowned Gothic masterpiece consecrated in 1248.

Today, only the northern and eastern walls remain, hinting at the church’s former splendor. Intricate carvings of religious figures adorn the slender columns embedded in the walls, and large windows illuminate the interior, a key feature of Gothic design.

In the southwest corner, you can see the first steps of a spiral staircase leading to the roof. The northern entrance, well-preserved, features carvings of a monk-shaped gargoyle and a lion devouring a lamb. Be careful not to confuse it with St. George of the Greeks church, located a short walk to the east.