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.

In 1373, Cyprus was invaded by the Republic of Genoa which established a colony centered at Famagusta and imprisoned much of the Lusignan nobility.

[1][2] 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.

The loss of Famagusta increased Sigouri's importance, as both as a trading hub and an outpost guarding the Lusignans from Genoese raids.

Kantara, Sigouri, La Cava and Nicosia formed a protective axis against potential Genoese invasion of the inland.

It was surrounded by 35 metres (115 ft) wide ditches filled with water from the nearby Pedieos river which likely dried down during the summer season.