Landmarks
Things to Do
Major Landmarks in Nicosia
The Walls of Nicosia
The Walls of Nicosia were built by the Venetians in the 16th century, replacing the old walls to defend the city against the Ottoman Turks. Until today, the Venetian walls are the most well-preserved construction in the city. However, their sequence has been interrupted by openings made by the British to facilitate traffic in and out of the walls. The original three gates of the walls still survive – Famagusta (Eastern Gate), Pafos (Western Gate), and Kyrenia (Northern Gate).
Τhe Cyprus Museum (Archeological)
The Cyprus Museum (Archeological) stands as the largest museum in Cyprus. Visitors can explore the evolution of Cypriot civilization from the Neolithic period until the early Byzantine period (7th century AD). Among its exhibits, visitors can admire the statue of Aphrodite of Soloi and the impressive statue of the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus.
The Leventis Municipal Museum
The Nicosia Municipality and the Anastasios G. Leventis Foundation established the Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia in 1984. In 1991, the museum earned the European Museum of the Year award. Its permanent exhibition spaces host exhibits that guide visitors through Nicosia’s history from antiquity to the present day. Furthermore, the museum provides organized educational programs and tours.
Τhe Museums of the Pancyprian Gymnasium
The Museums of the Pancyprian Gymnasium reside in the historical center of Nicosia. These museums feature the Archaeological and Numismatic collection, the collection of Old Maps, and various Old Weaponry, most of which have a Cypriot character. Additionally, an art gallery showcases works by great Cypriot painters, and a Museum for Natural History is also present.
Landmarks: Phaneromeni Church
Phaneromeni Church was built in 1872 next to an ancient Orthodox nunnery and is the largest church within the walls. The marble mausoleum located east of the church contains the remains of bishops and other clerics executed by the Ottomans in 1821 in reprisals for the beginning of the Greek War of Independence.
Agios Ioannis Cathedral Church
Archbishop Nikiforos renovated Agios Ioannis Cathedral Church in 1662. Furthermore, the church recently restored 18th-century frescoes, painted during the era of Archbishop Silvestros, recreate scenes from the Holy Bible and the discovery of Apostle Varnavas’ tomb in Salamina.
Nicosia Walks
One can follow two routes: firstly, Nicosia and its walls, and secondly, Pallouriotissa and Kaimakli. The latter, restored outside the Venetian walls, offers walks led by tourist guides, provided free of charge by the Nicosia Municipality. These walks start and end at the information office of the Deputy Ministry of Tourism in Laiki Geitonia, situated at 11 Aristokyprou Street (east of Eleftheria Square), Tel: 22674264.
