Limassol Castle, nestled in the heart of the old town of Limassol in Cyprus, is a site steeped in rich history dating back to the Byzantine era. Though the exact date of its construction is somewhat uncertain, it is believed to have been built around the 12th century by the Byzantines to protect the harbour of Limassol.

The castle entered the annals of history during the Third Crusade. It was here, in 1191, that King Richard the Lionheart of England wed Berengaria of Navarre, making her Queen of England in a ceremony said to have taken place in the chapel of the original castle. This event infused the court with a sense of romance and grandeur that continues to captivate visitors' imaginations.

Over the centuries, Limassol Castle witnessed many transitions of power. In the late 15th century, during the Venetian rule over Cyprus, the castle underwent significant reconstruction. However, in the 16th century, fearing the Ottomans could use it as a stronghold, the Venetians demolished the castle. When the Ottomans took over Cyprus in 1576, they rebuilt the court, giving it much of the current structure.

The castle served various functions under British administration in the 19th and early 20th centuries, from a prison to a colonial administrative office. However, it wasn't until 1940 that it was declared an ancient monument and subsequently preserved.

Today, Limassol Castle houses the Cyprus Medieval Museum, offering a fascinating journey through Cyprus's history from the 3rd to the 18th century AD. It is a testament to the island's strategic importance in the Mediterranean, its colourful past, and its resilience in the face of the changing tides of history. The castle is more than stone and mortar; it symbolises the rich tapestry of cultures shaping Limassol and Cyprus. Its stories, from King Richard's wedding to its time as an Ottoman stronghold, continue to echo within its formidable walls, making it an essential part of any visit to Limassol.