Hz. Ömer Tomb
🪦Hz. Ömer Tomb, North Cyprus: A Sacred Coastal Shrine of History & Faith
Perched on a rocky headland overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, just east of Kyrenia (Girne) in North Cyprus, the Hz. Ömer Tomb (Hazreti Ömer Türbesi) is much more than a mausoleum—it is a site of faith, history, legend, and tranquility. Whether you're a pilgrim, history enthusiast, or traveler seeking off-the-beaten-path gems, this monument offers a powerful glimpse into early Islamic history and Cyprus’s layered cultural heritage.
________________________________________
🏛️Historical & Legendary Background
• The 7th-Century Origins: According to tradition, during the Arab raids of the 7th century (specifically around 647 CE under the Umayyad Caliphate), Commander Ömer (a companion or leader in Muawiyah’s army) and six of his soldiers were killed and buried in a cave near what is now the tomb site.
• The Cave & the Undecayed Bodies Legend: It is said that when the island later fell under Ottoman rule, their remains were discovered intact in the cave and then reinterred with honor in the current tomb.
• Ottoman Era Construction and Later Restorations: After the conquest of Cyprus by the Ottomans in 1571, a mausoleum (türbe) and a small mosque (mescid) were built around the graves. Over time, the structure underwent damage—through natural causes like lightning, and also human conflict—and was restored (not always carefully) in the 20th century.
• Significance to Multiple Communities: Historically, the shrine / tekke was respected by both Muslim and Orthodox Christian communities—before the events of 1974—in a tradition of shared reverence.
________________________________________
📌Location & How to Get There
• Geographic Location: Roughly 6 km east of Kyrenia (Girne), near Çatalköy (Ayios Epiktitos), on a rocky coastal outcrop.
• Access Signposted from the coastal road. There is a left turn toward a go-kart track as a landmark, then access down toward the sea.
• Coordinates: Approximately 35.33595° N, 33.38665° E.
________________________________________
🙈What to See & Visitor Experience
• The Mausoleum and Mosque: The türbe (mausoleum) houses the seven graves. Adjoining it, a small mosque or mescid serves for prayer. Inside, you’ll find tapestries, rugs, various books (often religious), lending a solemn yet peaceful atmosphere.
• Scenic Natural Setting: The setting is dramatic: rocky coastline, waves crashing, views over the sea, with the Five Finger Mountains in view. The location adds spiritual and aesthetic power.
• Legendary Artifacts & Stories: Some stories include that during restoration or discovery, items like swords or spears were found, or that bodies were preserved. These add mystique to the site.
• Spiritual Atmosphere & Shared Heritage: Before 1974, visits by both Christian and Muslim faithful occurred; the tekke was part of local religious landscape. The peaceful environment makes it ideal for reflection.
________________________________________
📝Practical Information: Visiting Tips
• Opening & Access Times: It may not have official fixed hours; sometimes it’s closed or difficult to access. Always check locally (e.g. contact local tourism or municipal sources in Kyrenia/Çatalköy).
• What to Bring: Modest dress (for mosque & mausoleum), comfortable shoes for walking down rocky paths, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), water. If possible, a camera.
• Respectful Behavior: As a religious and sacred site, behaviors such as removing shoes before entering, keeping voice low, and observing prayer times if happening are expected.
• When to Visit: Weekdays and mornings are likely quieter. Visiting outside the midday heat (morning or late afternoon) is best for comfort & lighting.
• Nearby Amenities: Close to Kyrenia, so plenty of accommodation, restaurants, and facilities. However, immediate area around the tomb may be sparse: minimal shops, no large cafés‐inside the shrine complex.
________________________________________
📈Recent Developments & Surrounding Area Improvements
• A recreational area and environment restoration project has been underway for the surroundings of Hz. Ömer Tomb: including walking paths, viewing points, botanical gardens, parking, café, and improving the access road.
• The restoration work of the tomb itself is part of the plan. Some past restorations (e.g. in the 1950s, and a major one in 1978 after damage) have altered original features; newer efforts aim to both conserve heritage and improve visitor experience.
________________________________________
✨Why Hz. Ömer Tomb Is Worth Visiting
✅ Historical Depth & Legend: It is not just a grave but a site with stories that stretch back to the first Islamic period in Cyprus.
✅ Architectural & Spiritual Ambience: Though modest, the mausoleum + mosque, natural setting, and spiritual aura make for a moving visit.
✅ Cultural Bridge: The place represents, historically, shared respect across religious communities. It’s a living reminder of intercommunal history.
✅ Photogenic & Scenic: Sea, rock, sky and spiritual architecture combine for excellent photography and memorable moments.
✅ Potential for Peaceful Reflection: Away from busier tourist trails, this is a quiet, reflective stop.
________________________________________
🌸Final Thoughts
The Hz. Ömer Tomb is a hidden gem on the northwest coast of Cyprus, weaving together threads of early Islamic history, legend, faith, and landscape beauty. Visiting it offers not only a journey into the past but also a chance to stand quietly by the sea with deep reflections in mind. For any traveler to North Cyprus who seeks something beyond the usual, this shrine is a meaningful stop