Among the theories put forward to explain their origin the popular are: In 965 (after the expulsion of the Arabs from the island), in 1091 by the rebel Rhapsomates, during the rule of Eumathios Philokales (1091–1094), in the late 11th century after the Cilician coast was overrun by the Seljuk Empire or in 1096 as a countermeasure for the upheaval caused by the First Crusade.

Richard subsequently sold the island to the Knights Templar whose rule abruptly ended after a major revolt in Nicosia.

A struggle over who should act as the kingdom's regent ensued, pitting the House of Ibelin with the local supporters of Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor.

The castle's garrison surrendered a year later when its commander Gauvain de Cheneche was killed by a crossbow bolt.

According to Philip of Novara's chronicle prince John of Antioch managed to escape from Famagusta after disguising himself as the valet of his cook.

In 1914, British colonial authorities under George Jeffery undertook restoration work at the castle, in an effort to attract sightseers.

The lack of local water sources necessitated the collection of rainwater through the use flat roofs which were connected to the cisterns through a drainage system.

[7][6] The steep crags limit the available pathways to a narrow valley on its eastern side, which is guarded by twin towers named Nicolas and Faucherre respectively.

To the north of the main gate stands a horseshoe shaped tower providing additional support to the defenders of the barbican.

At the top of the castle stand the ruins of "The Queen's Chamber", an alleged fortified chapel destroyed in a Turkish naval bombardment in 1525 and looted in the 19th century.