The last divided capital
Did you know?The last divided capital
The roots of the Turkish occupation trace back to 1974 when Turkey, citing concerns for the Turkish Cypriot population, intervened militarily in response to a coup aimed at unification with Greece. The invasion resulted in the division of Cyprus, with Turkish forces occupying the northern part of the island. Nicosia, the capital city, found itself bisected by a “Green Line” separating the Turkish-controlled north from the Greek Cypriot south, a division that persists to this day.
In Nicosia, the impact of the occupation is palpable. The historic city center, once a bustling hub of culture and commerce, now bears the scars of conflict, with abandoned buildings and bullet-riddled facades serving as reminders of the city’s turbulent past. The famous Ledra Street, once a bustling thoroughfare, was severed by the Green Line, becoming a poignant symbol of division.
Museums and Historical LandmarksNicosia
Classic Motorcycle Museum
This museum is a labor of love, started by Andreas Nicolaou in 1980.
It houses over 350 motorcycles, ranging from classic models like AJS, MV Agusta, Matchless, Norton, BSA, Triumph, Ariel, BMW, James, and Moto Guzzi to many more. Andreas personally cares for each bike and is happy to share their history with visitors.
Machairas Monastery
This architectural gem was founded in the late 12th century. Inside, visitors can admire frescoes, gold-plated icons, and a beautifully carved iconostasis.
Near the monastery, a monument honors the Cypriot freedom fighters who used the monastery as a base during the EOKA struggle for independence from British rule.
Leventis Municipal Museum
Its rich collections span centuries, featuring artifacts from prehistoric times to the modern era. The exhibits include archaeological finds, medieval ceramics, Ottoman-era costumes, colonial-era photographs, and more, providing an in-depth view of the city’s evolution. Interactive displays and detailed narratives make the museum an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
Coinage History Museum
Showcasing an extensive collection of coins, the museum traces Cyprus’s economic, political, and cultural evolution from ancient times to the modern era. Visitors can explore rare coins from various historical periods, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences, as well as coins minted during British colonial rule and the Republic of Cyprus.
Faneromeni Church
Built in the 19th century, it is a fine example of Greek Orthodox architecture and a symbol of resilience and faith in the island’s capital. It is renowned for its intricate interior design, featuring ornate wood-carved iconostasis, frescoes, and Byzantine-style icons. It serves as a spiritual and cultural beacon for the local community, hosting major religious celebrations and ceremonies.
Fikardou Village
Nestled in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains, this picturesque village is famous for its narrow alleys, terraced fields, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Declared an ancient monument and a UNESCO-nominated site, Fikardou is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and tranquil atmosphere.
The Cyprus Museum
The Cyprus Museum
Highlights include intricately crafted pottery, exquisite jewelry, and meticulously carved sculptures from the Neolithic period to the Byzantine era.
Noteworthy pieces such as the Bronze Age terracotta figurines and the intricate Mycenaean jewelry offer glimpses into the island’s ancient craftsmanship and artistic prowess.
Lunch Break DiscoveriesNicosia
- UCY (New Campus)
- UCY (Old Campus)
- Filoxenia
Just a short distance from the UCY New Campus, you can visit the Environmental Information Centre in Aglantzia, a small but fascinating collection showcasing the island’s wildlife. From the main campus entrance, head toward Aglantzia and follow signs in the direction of Athalassa Park; it’s about a 5–7 minute drive or roughly a 20-minute walk. Along the way, you’ll pass residential streets and the green edge of the park, which makes the walk feel less like a chore and more like a transition.
Alternatively, if you’d rather skip walls and glass cases, walk straight into Athalassa National Forest Park, located right next to the campus. Within minutes, you’ll reach shaded paths and the lake area, ideal for a relaxed loop before heading back. The park entrance is clearly visible from the campus perimeter, so even with zero sense of direction, you’re unlikely to get lost. Both options are close, easy, and just enough to reset your brain before the next session.
If you have an hour between sessions, step out and let the city do the work. Just a 5 minutes walk from the UCY Old Campus, Akadimias Park offers a quiet, shaded escape, which is ideal for a short stroll or simply sitting under the trees before heading back. Exit the campus toward the city centre and you’ll spot the park almost immediately, a small but welcome contrast to the urban surroundings. A cozy coffee shop and a dog park are waiting for you.
For something more lively, head toward Ledra Street, about a 30-minute walk away. Follow the flow toward the old town and you’ll quickly reach the pedestrian street, lined with cafés, shops, and constant movement. It’s an easy, intuitive route with clear signage, and within minutes you’re in the heart of Nicosia—perfect for a quick coffee, a short wander, and a reminder that life exists outside conference rooms.
Just a 5-minute walk from Filoxenia, you’ll reach Akadimias Park, where the University of Cyprus Old Campus is also located. Once you exit the venue, cross the street you will find the park’s entrance. This option is ideal for a short walk under the trees or simply sitting down and switching off for a bit. A cozy coffee shop and a dog park are waiting for you.
Modern Cultural SpotsNicosia
Venetian Walls
Venetian Walls
The Nicosia Walled City is the historic heart of the capital, enclosed by the impressive 16th century Venetian walls built to protect the city from invasion. Its circular fortifications and eleven bastions remain among the most distinctive architectural features in Cyprus.
Inside the walls, visitors find a dense network of narrow streets, traditional houses, churches, mosques, museums, and cultural spaces that reflect the city’s diverse history. Today the area blends heritage with everyday life, offering a vibrant setting where historic landmarks, local markets, cafés, and cultural initiatives coexist.
FestivitiesNicosia
Beyond the VenueNicosia
