Nicosia

Nicosia, the capital of Northern Cyprus, is one of the island’s most important urban centres, bringing together government institutions, universities, healthcare facilities, business life and the energy of city living. Unlike the coastal regions, demand for property in Nicosia is driven primarily by year-round residential needs rather than tourism. Employees, students, public-sector workers and long-term residents contribute to a more stable long-term rental market. New residential developments close to the city centre, expanding neighbourhoods and convenient transport connections make Nicosia an attractive place both to live and to enjoy the advantages of a well-established capital city. Places to Visit in Nicosia Museum of Barbarism Located in a central part of Nicosia, the Museum of Barbarism offers visitors an insight into one of the most painful periods in Cyprus’s recent history. The museum is housed in the former home of Major Nihat İlhan and contains photographs, objects and documents relating to the events that began on 21 December 1963 and became known as “Bloody Christmas”. Bullet marks from the attack can still be seen on the walls of the house. The bathroom where members of Nihat İlhan’s family were killed remains one of the most poignant parts of the museum. With its extensive collection of photographs documenting the events of the period, the Museum of Barbarism is one of the most important historical sites to visit in Nicosia. Kyrenia Gate Kyrenia Gate is one of the historic entrances through the Venetian walls built around Nicosia in 1562. Located on the northern side of the old city, it served as one of the principal gateways into the city. After Cyprus came under Ottoman rule, the gate was restored, and a domed chamber was added in 1821. During subsequent restoration work, inscriptions and the imperial monogram of Sultan Mahmud were added to the structure. Today, Kyrenia Gate remains one of the best-known landmarks of historic Nicosia. Venetian Column Located in Atatürk Square, the Venetian Column was brought from the ancient city of Salamis in 1550 and erected near Sarayönü. During the Venetian period, the square was home to the Carmelite Church, and the column originally featured the Lion of Saint Mark, the symbol of Venice. Five of the six coats of arms belonging to noble families of the period have survived to the present day. After suffering damage during the Ottoman period, the column was restored in 1915 during British rule. Cyprus Car Museum The Cyprus Car Museum displays more than 150 automobiles and welcomes thousands of visitors every year. Its collection includes vehicles dating from the early 1900s to more recent periods, as well as rare and unique models. The museum is located on the campus of Near East University and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the development of automotive history through an extensive collection. Mevlevi Tekke Museum Built in the 17th century, the building served as a Mevlevi lodge for many years and functioned as an important centre for religious education. After its closure in 1925, it reopened in 1963 as the Turkish Cypriot Ethnography Museum. Following restoration and reorganisation, it was transformed into the Mevlevi Tekke Museum. Inside the museum, visitors can see dervish rooms, the semahane ceremonial hall, guest rooms and a traditional kitchen. Bedesten Originally constructed as a Byzantine church in the 6th century, the building was rebuilt in the Gothic style by the Lusignans during the 14th century. Following Venetian rule, it became known as the Church of St Nicholas. During the Ottoman period, the building was converted into a covered market. Its architecture combines elements of Gothic and Renaissance design. After extensive restoration, Bedesten was reopened and today serves as one of Nicosia’s most impressive historic buildings. The venue also hosts cultural and artistic events at various times throughout the year. Lusignan House Lusignan House was built in the 15th century during the period when the Lusignan dynasty ruled Cyprus. Designed in the Gothic style, the two-storey building is believed to have been associated with members of the Lusignan nobility. Following the Ottoman conquest of Cyprus, the building was adapted into an Ottoman-style residence. Today it operates as a museum, displaying objects and household items that reflect the daily lives of the different civilisations that have lived in the region. Haydar Pasha Mosque The building known today as Haydar Pasha Mosque was originally constructed in the 14th century as the Cathedral of St Catherine in the French Gothic style. Following the Ottoman conquest, a mihrab and minbar were added and the building began to be used as a mosque. Its elaborate stonework, Gothic architectural details and striking façade make it one of the most distinctive historic buildings in Nicosia.

Places to Visit

Kyrenia Gate

Kyrenia Gate is one of the best-known landmarks in Nicosia’s historic city walls. Originally built during the Venetian period as one of the three main entrances to the walled city, it continued to be used during the Ottoman era. Today it provides a striking introduction to the historic character of North Nicosia and its old town.

Venetian Column

Located in Atatürk Square in the historic centre of Nicosia, the Venetian Column is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Dating from the Venetian period, it stands among several important historic buildings and reflects the character of the old city. Its central location also makes it an easy stop while exploring nearby landmarks such as Kyrenia Gate, Bedesten and Büyük Han.

Museum of Barbarism

Located in Nicosia, the Museum of Barbarism focuses on a difficult period in Cyprus’s recent history. The museum is housed in a residence associated with the intercommunal violence of 1963. Photographs, documents and preserved elements of the building provide visitors with historical context about this period of the island’s past.

Büyük Han

Located within Nicosia’s historic walled city, Büyük Han is one of the most important surviving buildings from the Ottoman period. Built in the 16th century, it is known for its large courtyard, two-storey arcades, stone arches and the small prayer structure at the centre. Today it remains a lively cultural space with craft shops, workshops, cafés and events, making it one of the best places to experience the atmosphere of old Nicosia.

Zahra Street

Zahra Street is one of the most atmospheric streets within Nicosia’s historic walled city. Known for its traditional stone houses, narrow lanes, cafés and location close to the city walls, it offers a lively blend of old-town character and contemporary social life. The area is especially enjoyable toward sunset, when the historic surroundings take on a distinctive atmosphere.

Mevlevi Tekke Museum

Located within Nicosia’s historic walled city, the Mevlevi Tekke Museum reflects the island’s Mevlevi and Sufi heritage. The complex includes ceremonial spaces, dervish rooms, tombs and exhibits related to the Mevlevi tradition. Its architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it an interesting stop for visitors exploring the cultural history of Nicosia.

Bedesten

Located within Nicosia’s historic walled city beside Selimiye Mosque, Bedesten is one of the city’s most distinctive historic buildings. Over the centuries it has served different purposes, including religious, commercial and storage functions. Its architecture reflects layers of Gothic and Ottoman influence, while today the building is used for cultural events and exhibitions.

Lusignan House

Located within Nicosia’s historic walled city, Lusignan House reflects several layers of the city’s architectural history. The building combines Gothic origins with Ottoman-period additions such as wooden projections, a traditional courtyard and domestic living spaces. Today it operates as a museum and offers visitors a closer look at everyday life and architectural change in old Nicosia.

Haydarpasha Mosque

Located within Nicosia’s historic walled city, Haydarpasha Mosque is one of the city’s notable examples of Gothic architectural heritage. Originally built as a medieval church, the building was converted into a mosque during the Ottoman period. Its pointed arches, stone craftsmanship and historic façade reflect the layered history of old Nicosia.

Cyprus Car Museum

Located on the Near East University campus in Nicosia, the Cyprus Car Museum features a diverse collection of classic, sports and distinctive automobiles from different periods. It offers visitors interested in automotive history an opportunity to explore changing design styles and car culture through the years.