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Historical Tank

Historical Tank

šŸŖ–The Historical Tank in North Cyprus is a quirky but powerful war relic located near the Kyrenia mountain range, along the route to St. Hilarion Castle. It’s become an unexpected roadside landmark with a poignant story linked to the 1974 conflict in Cyprus.
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šŸ›”ļø What Is the Historical Tank?

It’s a Turkish military tank that was disabled during the Turkish intervention in Cyprus in July 1974. The tank is stuck on a steep slope, having apparently slid off a narrow mountain road during the advance toward Kyrenia. Instead of being removed, the tank was left exactly where it came to rest, and today it stands as a memorial and historical monument.
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šŸ—ŗļø Location

You’ll find the tank on the road between Nicosia and Kyrenia, just before the turnoff to St. Hilarion Castle. It’s perched on a mountain slope, overlooking the coastline—an evocative sight against the dramatic landscape.
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šŸŽ–ļø Symbolism

The tank symbolizes the intensity of the 1974 military action and serves as a reminder of Cyprus’s divided past. It has become a silent witness to history, often visited by locals, tourists, and military personnel alike.
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šŸ“ø Tips for Visitors

• No entry fee – it’s viewable from the roadside.
• There's limited signage, but it’s hard to miss if you’re on the way to St. Hilarion.
• You can safely pull over nearby for a quick photo stop.
• The tank itself is usually not fenced off, but visitors are advised to respect the site as a war memorial.
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🧭 Summary

The Historical Tank in North Cyprus isn’t a traditional tourist attraction, but it’s a striking piece of modern history. It appeals to:

• History buffs
• Those interested in the 1974 Cyprus conflict
• Travelers looking for offbeat landmarks
• Visitors heading to St. Hilarion Castle or exploring the Kyrenia mountain road

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