Kyrenia Mountains

Overview

The Kyrenia Mountains, also known as the Beşparmaklar (Turkish) or Pentadactylos (Greek), are a long and narrow mountain chain located along the northern coast of Cyprus. The range stretches approximately 170 km in length and has a maximum width of 8-10 km.

Geology

The mountains are primarily composed of limestone, with some marble deposits. The highest summit is Selvili Tepe (also known as Kyparissovouno), which reaches an elevation of 1,024 meters above sea level. The western half of the mountain range is sometimes referred to as the Pentadactylos Mountains, due to its resemblance to five fingers.

Formation

The Kyrenia Mountains are a result of sedimentary formations from the Permian to the Miocene period, which were pushed upwards by the collision of African and Eurasian tectonic plates. This process has created a series of abrupt and spectacular mountains that rise abruptly from the Mesaoria plain.

History

The mountain range has been shaped over millions of years through geological processes. The name " Beşparmaklar" (Five Fingers) is derived from the ancient formations, which have taken on the shape of fingers due to erosion in the south of Kyrenia.

Castles and Fortifications

Several castles and fortifications are located within the mountain range, including:

* St. Hilarion Castle
* Buffavento Castle
* Kantara Castle

These structures were built to control the paths and valleys within the mountains, providing strategic access to the northern coast of Cyprus.

Etymology

The name " Beşparmaklar" (Five Fingers) is a reference to the unique shape of the mountain range, which resembles five fingers. This name is shared with the Greek version, Pentadactylos, and is sometimes used synonymously to refer to this chain of mountains.