What is the Capital of Cyprus? Nicosia

Cyprus Nicosia

Capital City of Cyprus: Nicosia

City Overview

Nicosia (Greek: Λευκωσία, Lefkosía; Turkish: Lefkoşa) is the capital city of Cyprus and the largest city on the island. It is located in the central part of the island, surrounded by the Mesaoria Plain. Nicosia has been the capital of Cyprus since the city’s founding in antiquity and remains the political, cultural, and financial center of the country today. See Computerdo for other major cities in Cyprus.

The history of Nicosia dates back over 4,500 years. It was an important city during the Hellenistic period, the Roman era, and the Byzantine Empire. Nicosia became a significant urban center during the medieval and Ottoman periods and continues to play a key role in the island’s governance, economy, and culture.

The city is particularly notable for its unique status as the last divided capital in Europe. Since 1974, Nicosia has been divided into two parts, with the southern part being controlled by the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus and the northern part administered by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (recognized only by Turkey). The Green Line, a demilitarized zone, separates the two areas, and is patrolled by the United Nations Peacekeeping Force.

Nicosia’s historic Old Town, surrounded by Venetian walls from the 16th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city also boasts a mix of modern buildings, museums, art galleries, and theaters, reflecting Cyprus’ rich cultural heritage.

Area: 111 km²
Population: Approximately 240,000 (2023)
Time Zone: Eastern European Time (EET), UTC +2:00 (Eastern European Summer Time, UTC +3:00)
Highest Mountain: Mount Olympus (also known as Chionistra), with an elevation of 1,952 meters (6,407 feet)
Longest River: Pedieos River, which runs for about 98 kilometers (61 miles) and flows through Nicosia, the longest river in Cyprus.

Nicosia is the economic heart of Cyprus, with banks, insurance companies, and the headquarters of many international organizations located in the city. It also hosts the Cypriot government and several foreign embassies.

Major Landmarks

Nicosia is home to numerous landmarks that reflect its rich history and cultural heritage, as well as modern developments. Some of the most significant landmarks include:

1. Ledra Street and the Green Line

Ledra Street is one of the most famous shopping streets in Nicosia. Historically significant, it was the main commercial hub of the city before the division. Today, Ledra Street also marks the location of the crossing point between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot parts of Nicosia. The Green Line, a buffer zone that divides the city, is heavily patrolled by UN peacekeepers, and the crossing offers a glimpse into the island’s divided past and present.

2. Cyprus Museum

The Cyprus Museum in Nicosia is the largest archaeological museum on the island. It houses artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age, including sculptures, pottery, and coins from Cyprus’ ancient civilizations. The museum’s collection offers a fascinating look into the island’s history, from its early inhabitants to its Greek, Roman, and Byzantine influences.

3. Selimiye Mosque (St. Sophia Cathedral)

The Selimiye Mosque, originally St. Sophia Cathedral, is one of the most significant landmarks in Nicosia. Built in the 13th century, the cathedral was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Cyprus in the 16th century. It is an impressive example of Gothic architecture and remains one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.

4. Venetian Walls

The Venetian Walls surround Nicosia’s Old Town and date back to the 16th century. The walls, which were built by the Venetians to defend the city, have become an important historical landmark. The fortifications include eleven bastions, a dry moat, and the iconic Famagusta Gate, which today serves as the entrance to the Old Town.

5. Archbishop’s Palace

The Archbishop’s Palace is a key site in Nicosia, located in the heart of the city. It is the residence of the Archbishop of Cyprus, the spiritual leader of the Greek Orthodox Church of Cyprus. The building itself is a neoclassical structure, and the archbishop’s office and various religious institutions are housed within the complex.

6. Buyuk Han

Located in the Turkish Cypriot part of Nicosia, Buyuk Han is a 16th-century Ottoman building that was originally a caravanserai (a roadside inn for travelers). It has been beautifully restored and now serves as a cultural center and a market for local handicrafts, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Cypriot craftsmanship and architecture.

7. Hala Sultan Tekke

Hala Sultan Tekke, located just outside Nicosia near the salt lake, is an important Muslim pilgrimage site. The mosque is dedicated to the mother of the Islamic prophet Caliph Omar, who is believed to have died there in the 7th century. It’s an important cultural and religious symbol for both Turkish Cypriots and Muslims worldwide.

Climate Overview

Nicosia has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Its location in the central plain of Cyprus means it experiences warmer temperatures than coastal cities, particularly during summer months.

Monthly Climate Data

Month Average Temperature (°C) Precipitation (mm) Sunny Days (Avg.)
January 10°C 90 7
February 11°C 80 8
March 14°C 60 10
April 17°C 40 11
May 22°C 20 12
June 27°C 5 14
July 30°C 0 15
August 30°C 5 14
September 27°C 10 13
October 20°C 30 10
November 14°C 60 8
December 11°C 80 6

Other Cities as Capital in the History of Cyprus

Salamis (8th century BC – 4th century AD)

In ancient times, Salamis was the capital of Cyprus. It was founded by the Mycenaean Greeks in the 11th century BC and flourished as a major city during the Classical Greek and Hellenistic periods. It was eventually abandoned after a series of invasions and earthquakes, and the capital moved to Paphos.

Paphos (4th century BC – 4th century AD)

During the Roman period, Paphos became the capital of Cyprus. The city is famous for its Roman villas, mosaics, and historic sites, including the Tomb of the Kings. It remained the capital until the rise of Salamis in the Byzantine period.

Famagusta (4th century AD – 12th century AD)

Famagusta, once a thriving port city on the east coast of Cyprus, served as a prominent capital and trade center for the island. Its strategic location made it an important hub for the Byzantine and later the Venetian Republic.

Nicosia (Since 12th century AD)

Since the 12th century, Nicosia has served as the capital of Cyprus, and it has remained so through various rulers, including the Byzantines, Franks, Venetians, Ottomans, and British.

Country Facts

General Information about Cyprus

Cyprus is an island nation in the Eastern Mediterranean, known for its beautiful coastline, ancient history, and rich cultural heritage. It has been divided since 1974, following a Turkish invasion triggered by a Greek-led coup. Cyprus is a European Union member and a popular tourist destination, especially for its beaches, historical sites, and unique blend of Greek and Turkish cultures.

  • Population: Approximately 1.2 million (2023)
  • Area: 9,251 km²
  • Largest City: Nicosia
  • Currency: Euro (EUR)
  • Official Languages: Greek, Turkish
  • ISO Country Codes: CY (ISO 3166-1 alpha-2), CYP (ISO 3166-1 alpha-3)
  • National Anthem: “Hymn to Liberty”
  • Independence: August 16, 1960 (from the United Kingdom)
  • Government: Presidential Republic

Cyprus enjoys a high standard of living, with a stable economy based on services, agriculture, and tourism. However, the ongoing division of the island presents both political challenges and opportunities for reunification.

Cyprus Location Map