Built by the Lusignans in the 12th century to protect the harbour, city and sea-gate, this citadel is perhaps the most well-known element within Famagusta city walls. Originally surrounded by a moat, the Venetian Nicolo Foscarini transformed it (it is said that Leonardo de Vinci assisted in its design) into an artillery stronghold in 1492, making alterations similar to those at Girne castle.  However, the present day name of the tower came into use during the British colonial period, based on the Shakespearean play in which Othello the Moor was a Venetian commander, sent to Cyprus by his masters.

Once inside the citadel, you will be amazed at the size of the courtyard, where you can still see Ottoman and Spanish cannons alongside piles of iron cannon balls and stone balls used for catapults, as well as a huge 28m long refectory and large rooms on the level above.  This courtyard is often the setting for local folk-dancing performances which makes a stunning backdrop.