Kyrenia

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A view point in Kyrenia

History

Kyrenia is a city in Cyprus and one of the locations in Assassin's Creed: Bloodlines. Kyrenia dates to the end of the Trojan War, when many settlers arrived there from Achaea in the Peloponnese, and established towns in the district. Evidence from archaeological sites excavated in and around Kyrenia gave testament to settlements present since the Neolithic period, 5800-3000 BC. Moreover, many Mycenaean, Geometric and Achaean tombs (dating from 1300-500s BC) have also been discovered. A fine climate, fertile soil and an abundance of water offered ideal conditions for the town's early settlement.

There are districts in Kyrenia; the Harbor, with many ships, the Commons district, the Merchant district, the Crusader Outpost, and the Market. There is also Kantara Castle, where Moloch "the Bull" resides, Buffavento Castle, a prison where the Dark Oracle is detained, and Saint Hilarion Castle, the residence of the twin sons of Moloch, Shalim and Shahar.

Cepheus from Arcadia is believed to be the founder of the town of Kyrenia. A military leader, he arrived at the north coast of the island, bringing with him many settlers from various towns in Achaea. One such town, located near present-day Aigio in the Peloponnese, was also called Kyrenia. East of Kyrenia lies the Coast of Achaeans. It was at Kyrenia, according to Strabo l (14.682.3), that Teucer first came ashore, to found the ancient Kingdom of Salamis after the Trojan War.

In-game

In Fall of 1191, during the game's events, the city of Kyrenia is under control of the Templar Order, who rule the populace with an iron fist. The supreme ruler of Cyprus (cities of Kyrenia and Limassol) was Armand Bouchart, Grand Master of the Knights Templar. A constant fear of being harassed or killed by the Templars in several of the towns keeps most people indoors. Few people wander the island, but Templars roam around every corner.