Louis-François Cassas

Copper engraving, 380 x 258 mm

This engraving depicts the castle of Agios Ilarion (also known as Dieu d’Amour) which was built atop Agios Ilarion with a view toward the harbour of Keryneia. The castle was named after Agios Ilarion, who lived as a hermit there, and is a fine example of an early medieval castle. Originally a Byzantine edifice, the Lusignans repaired the castle during their occupation of Cyprus. A small group of shepherds is the only human element in the illustration.