recognizing the importance of the three kyrenian castles james i of cyprus and peter ii of cyprus vastly expanded their fortifications. during their reign kantara was transformed into a garrison castle, barracks and an enormous cistern were erected. another cistern located at the basement of the castle was converted into a prison and later made into rooms for the captain of garrison. in 1489, the republic of venice acquired the island, 1519 italian engineers branded the castle as obsolete. at which time the kyrenian mountain castles fell into disuse, the last garrison departing in 1525. the castle was finally dismantled in 1560. kantara's buildings remain in a relatively good condition until they were subjected to looting in the early 20th century. in 1905, the castle was classified as historic heritage due to the efforts of the french archaeologist camille enlart. in 1914, british colonial authorities under george jeffery undertook restoration work at the castle, in an effort to attract sightseers. in 1939, the foundation of the horseshoe tower was refurbished in order to prevent it from collapsing.