The capital of Cyprus is the only large city on the island located in its central part. Surprisingly, Nicosia is at the same time the capital of two states, whose relations can hardly be called friendly. That is why Nicosia is divided in half by a wall, but there is something to see in the city.
Buyuk Khan
One of the caravanserais, well preserved to this day. Caravanserais are huge inns of the 17th century, visually more reminiscent of a military fortress. An indispensable attribute of such an inn is the octagonal mosque located in the center of the courtyard.
During the reign of Britain, a prison was located here, which, after the end of the Second World War, was converted into a homeless shelter. Now on the territory of the caravanserai there is a huge number of cafes and souvenir shops.
Bedestin
A small Byzantine church during its 1500 years of existence has tried on many images. It was a Roman Catholic church, then a grain storage. Then she acquired the status of the Orthodox Church. Bedestin experienced both oblivion and complete decline. Relatively recently, the authorities of North Cyrus opened a cultural center in the building. Previously, a grand restoration was carried out. The result is Gothic arches and carved stones alongside metal and glass.
Museum of barbarism
A really scary place. A creepy house-museum, the exposition of which is dedicated to the atrocities of the Greek extremists who attacked the inhabitants of the house in December 1963. A huge photo exhibition is dedicated to the killings of many Cypriots who died during this year.
Byzantine Museum
The collection of the museum is an amazing collection of icons created in the 9th-19th centuries. Once they belonged to the churches and monasteries of the country. Some specimens have been perfectly preserved and, examining them, one can trace how the style of the masters has changed. But the main gem of the museum is the mosaics dating from the 6th century. The exhibits arrived from the Panagia Kanakarya church located in the village of Litrangomi.
City gardens
Their construction began in 1901, but they were originally called Victoria Gardens. The park is located near the gates of Paphos and is the largest in the capital.
The garden is a favorite resting place for the townspeople. There is a small pond and a playground for children. You can have a snack in one of the many cozy cafes.
Selimiye Mosque
While walking, you should definitely admire this beautiful mosque of the capital. But remember: it is still a meetinghouse, so modest closed clothing, quiet demeanor, and shoes removed are required when visiting.
