Nicosia

　　   　　Nicosia (Nicosia) is situated along the Pedieos River in the central-northern part of the island, bordered to the north by the Kyrenia mountain range stretching across the northern coast of the island, and facing the verdant Troodos Mountains to the southwest. Covering an area of 50.5 square kilometers with a population of over 230,000, it is the country’s only inland city and serves as the capital of the Republic of Cyprus, as well as its political, economic, and cultural center.

　　　　Since the late 10th century, Nicosia has been the capital of the island nation, boasting numerous medieval buildings. After the Venetians occupied the island in 1489, they constructed circular city walls in the city center and 11 heart-shaped bastions, all of which remain well-preserved to this day. The Selimiye Mosque, located at the heart within the city walls, was originally a Gothic Catholic church that began construction in 1208 and was completed in 1267. After the Turkish invasion in 1570, two minarets were added, converting it into a mosque.

　　    - The Archbishop’s Palace and St. John’s Church, built during the period of the Eastern Crusades, are typical examples of Greek Orthodox churches and have now been repurposed as cultural research institutions. In addition, there are also structures from the Byzantine period (330–1191). The narrow, winding streets of the old city are like a maze, with architecture that blends both Eastern and Western styles. Ledra Street in the old town is the most bustling hub in all of Nicosia, lined with shops and offering a wide array of goods.

　　    The Cyprus Museum houses a wealth of artifacts from the Neolithic Age to the Roman period.

　　　　Centered around the old town, protected by Venetian-era walls, the surrounding new districts present a completely different scene: advanced telecommunications, thriving markets, wide streets, crisscrossing highways, modern designs that are both innovative and aesthetically pleasing, and a variety of architectural styles. Luxuriously decorated hotels attract visitors from both home and abroad.

　　    However, after the outbreak of the intercommunal conflict on the island in July 1974, the city was artificially divided into Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot zones in the north and south. There is no free movement between the zones, and the dividing line known as the “Green Line” is guarded by United Nations forces. On either side are outposts of Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot soldiers, making it a divided city. The Green Line not only splits Nicosia but also divides the entire island of Cyprus. However, this does not mean the areas around or near the Green Line are particularly dangerous. In fact, for a long time, there has been no conflict around the Green Line, and the nearby towns are very quiet and peaceful.

　　 Nicosia, Cyprus