Nicosia – A Cultural Mosaic in the Heart of Cyprus Cyprus Cyprus
Nicosia (Lefkoşa), the capital city, is unlike any other in Europe. It is the world’s last divided capital, where the old and new, East and West, coexist side by side. Walking through the walled city feels like stepping into a living museum: narrow streets wind between Venetian fortifications, Ottoman-era mansions, and modern cafés buzzing with life.
Highlights of Nicosia include the Büyük Han, a 16th-century caravanserai now filled with artisan shops, art galleries, and cozy tea gardens where visitors can enjoy Turkish coffee in an authentic setting. The Selimiye Mosque, once a gothic cathedral, is one of the finest examples of Lusignan architecture on the island. For those who love culture, Nicosia offers endless discoveries — museums, vibrant markets, and local handicrafts. Yet, beyond its history, Nicosia is also a lively modern city with a youthful atmosphere, where art, fashion, and nightlife thrive. It’s the perfect starting point for your journey through Northern Cyprus.
