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Nicosia (Lefkosia)

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Agios Mamas, Greek Orthodox Monastery in Morphou. Nicosia District, Cyprus.

© Kirill Markarov/Shutterstock

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Overview

The capital of the Republic of Cyprus is also its cultural heartbeat. Overlooked by most visitors, reduced to a day-tour jaunt from beach resorts, Nicosia (or Lefkosia, as it's officially known) is a curious and fascinating mix of vibrant street life, confronting division and rich history.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • 16th century Venetian walls of Nicosia, Cyprus; Shutterstock ID 132634124; Your name (First / Last): Brana V; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial; Full Product or Project name including edition: Nicosia destination page

    Venetian Walls

    Nicosia (Lefkosia)

    The Venetian walls form a border around the Old City and are so unusual that, once seen on a map, you’ll never forget the odd snowflake-like shape.

  • Cyprus Museum

    Cyprus Museum

    Nicosia (Lefkosia)

    Just outside the Old City walls, this excellent museum houses the island's most important collection of archaeological finds. Highlights include Hall 11's…

  • AG Leventis Gallery

    AG Leventis Gallery

    Nicosia (Lefkosia)

    Located just outside the Old City, this art museum features three collections displaying European paintings and sculpture from the 16th to the 20th…

  • Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre

    Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre

    Nicosia (Lefkosia)

    This contemporary-art museum is housed in a former power station, and is the city’s equivalent to London’s Tate Modern. The former industrial setting is…

  • CVAR

    CVAR

    Nicosia (Lefkosia)

    Opened in 2014, CVAR's collection of art and archival material showcases the story of modern Cyprus. Galleries full of paintings and other artworks…

  • Leventis Municipal Museum

    Leventis Municipal Museum

    Nicosia (Lefkosia)

    The best place in town to get to grips with Nicosia's rich and convoluted history. The permanent collection inside this handsome neoclassical mansion…

  • Chrysaliniotissa Quarter

    Chrysaliniotissa Quarter

    Nicosia (Lefkosia)

    Centred around the Panagia Chrysaliniotissa church, this residential neighbourhood on the edge of the Old City rubs right up against the Green Line, and…

  • Ancient Tamassos

    Ancient Tamassos

    Nicosia (Lefkosia)

    Tamassos’ main claim to fame was its once seemingly endless supply of copper – the mineral from which the name of Cyprus (Kypros in Greek; Kıbrıs in…

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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

Nicosia's complex history has birthed a broad mix of architectural styles and cultures. Here's our round up of the best things to do in this charming city.

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Day Trips

Explore mosques, caves and more within two hours of Cyprus' capital city.

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