Namik Kemals Prison

It is suprising to note that the dark and nightmarish Namik Kemals Prison was once a part of the Venetian Palace, where dignitaries and other heads of the community held office and attended parties. It was badly damaged however during 1571, when Famagusta, was conquered by the Ottomans. After this time it was converted into  the prison.

Who was Namik Kemal?
The prison was named after one of its highly celebrated prisoners, Namik Kemals. He was the Turkish Shakespeare of his day, a great writer of many poems and plays. His passionate views unfortunately, meant he spent 32 years of his life in Prison. It was during the late part of the 1800s when he was transported to Cyprus and into the prison for his criticisms of the Sultan. He was able to write behind prison bars and his most famous works were produced during his 3 year stint here. Many of his publications were written using pseudonyms or anonymously.

A museum can be found next to the prison, which contains samples of his literary works. A bust of the poet and the square it faces are dedicated to him.
 

Click here for ideas on days out in Fanagusta  >
Namik Kemals prison pic courtesy of Paul Mamo

Share with your friends