Nicosia is the capital of Cyprus and located in the middle of the island. It’s an ancient city which has been the capital of Cyprus since the 10th century. At the end of this blog post you will find a link to my YouTube video.
In 1567 Venetians built the new fortifications of Nicosia, which are well-preserved still to this day.
The capital and the island has been divided since the Turkish invasion in 1974 and it is now the worlds only divided capital. In the middle of the city you have the green line. In this blog post, I will focus on the area south of the green line.
Nicosia has established itself as the island’s financial capital and the main international business center.
1. Shacolas Tower
Number 1 on the list is the Shacolas Tower Museum and Observatory. It’s a good place to start exploring the city and to get an overview of the layout. Take the elevator to the 11th floor and you will have a 360 degree view over the city. The entrance is 2.50 euro. You can open the windows to get a clearer view. To the north you can see the Turkish occupied parts of Nicosia and Cyprus.
There is also great information about the impressive history of Nicosia. To the south, you can see Eleftheria Square and the high-rise buildings around it.
2. Eleftheria Square
Eleftheria Square, literally meaning Liberty Square, is the main square in Nicosia.
Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the square blends contemporary aesthetics with its rich historical context. It serves as a vital public space, promoting social interaction and urban connectivity. The renovation integrates green areas, pedestrian pathways, and modern amenities, enhancing its appeal and functionality. Eleftheria Square symbolizes freedom and unity, reflecting Cyprus’s evolving identity.
Opinions are divided about the square’s modern design. Some says it’s doesn’t fit within the context of Nicosia being a historic city. A lack of shade and trees is another negative opinion.
3. Piatsa Gourounaki
It’s time to grab some good food and as number 3 on our list is Piatsa Gourounaki.
It’s located on a small street only a few minutes from Shacolas Tower. Click this link for their website.
They serve freshly made souvlaki grilled on charcoal. Really good quality and affordable prices. This place was recommended by many. We ordered the Greek salad, bread with tyrokafteri to start. Then a chicken gyros in cyprus pita. And chicken souvlaki. As a free dessert they served us this panacotta. The bill came to 29 euros including drinks. Highly recommended place with friendly staff.
4. Ledra Street
Number 4 on the list is Ledra Street. It the most famous street in Nicosia and is lined with a mix of traditional shops, modern boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It is now also the main crossing point through the green line.
On 3 April 2008 at 9 a.m. local time (06:00 UTC), the Ledra Street roadblock crossing through the UN buffer zone was reopened after 34 years, in the presence of Greek and Turkish Cypriot officials
It has now been 50 years since the Turkish invasion of Cyprus and the island remain divided to this day.
See my YouTube video from Nicosia here:
