The website devoted to Cypriot archaeology
The Crusades brought Richard the Lionheart of England to Cyprus in 1191, and after exchanges with the forces of the despotic Isaac Komnenos, too control of the island. It was not a prize that Richard actually wanted and he first sold it to the Knights Templar. Following a revolt by the Cypriots against the harsh tax regime which the Knights instigated the island was returned to Richard. He then resold it to a minor French nobleman, Guy de Lusignan, who had been the last King of Jerusalem before the city was taken by Saladin.
The island became an important centre as Famagusta acted as a major gateway between Christianity and the Holy Land. Trade money financed a number a impressive building projects.