Journey to the Past
History of Baldoken Cemetery
Baldöken Cemetery, also known by different names such as Atik Islam Cemetery and Islam Cemetery, has a history of 450 years. In 1570, the grave of Sadık Pasha of Algeria, who was martyred during the siege of Kyrenia, is located here. In the years that followed, Ottoman soldiers were continuously buried here.
With the rapid increase in the population in the early 1600s, the burials of non-military local people began to take place in this cemetery. Throughout history, water channels and cisterns were also built within the known boundaries of the cemetery. The cistern, built on the initiative of Seyyid Emin Efendi, was restored in 1963.
Baldöken Cemetery lost its function during the republican years when the Greek people had a say in the administration. Today, it is an open-air museum landscaped with municipal resources. It is waiting to be visited with its green and peaceful atmosphere.
Location
Where is Baldoken Cemetery?
Baldöken Cemetery is located in Kyrenia, one of the most touristic cities of Northern Cyprus. You can enter from Ramadan Cemil Square, which you can reach on foot from St. Andrew’s Church and Kyrenia Harbor. The cemetery on the south side of the harbor is a beautiful resting point.
Places to visit in Kyrenia are generally around Kyrenia Harbor. Before touring Baldöken Cemetery, you can also visit Kyrenia Port, Sunken Ship Museum, Aga Cafer Pasha Mosque and St. Andrew Church.
Transportation
How to get to Baldoken Cemetery?
To reach the historical martyrdom, you must first go to the Kyrenia Harbor area. The area where the port is located is a very central location. You can easily reach here by public transportation (bus, minibus) or taxi.
You have several options to reach Kyrenia. If you are coming from Nicosia, you can reach Kyrenia after a 45-minute drive by road. However, you can enter Cyprus via Kyrenia Port or Nicosia Airport.
Visit Information
Baldoken Cemetery Visit Information
There is no time limit for entry to the cemetery. Entrance is free of charge. You can visit this open-air museum at any time of the day and visit tombs that are over 400 years old. However, for the best experience, we recommend going during daylight hours.
Baldoken Cemetery Photos
Plan your Kyrenia Travel Route
Places to visit in Kyrenia
Home to the island’s most luxurious restaurants, bars and casinos, Kyrenia is full of historical and touristic attractions. Many civilizations, including the Byzantines, Lusignans, Venetians and the Ottoman Empire, have left artifacts here.
