Nicosia

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Selimiye Mosque (St. Sophie Cathedral) (36)

Venetian walls and green parks Nicosia Republic of Cyprus Kypros

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Nicosia by Giacomo Franco

Nicosia 01-2017 img08 Famagusta Gate

Nicosia 01-2017 img04 aqueduct

Nicosia (Greek: Λευκωσία, Lefkosia; Turkish: Lefkoşa) is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Cyprus. It is located near the center of the Mesaoria plain, on the banks of the River Pedieos. Nicosia is the southeasternmost of all EU member states' capitals. It has been continuously inhabited for over 4,500 years and has been the capital of Cyprus since the 10th century.

History

The history of Nicosia dates back to the Bronze Age, when it was known as Ledra. The city became a kingdom in the 7th century BC but was later conquered by various empires, including the Assyrian Empire, the Persian Empire, the Roman Empire, and the Byzantine Empire. In the Middle Ages, Nicosia was captured by the Richard I of England during the Third Crusade and subsequently sold to the Knights Templar, who then sold it to Guy de Lusignan, thus becoming the capital of the Kingdom of Cyprus. The city walls that still surround the old city were built by the Venetians in the 16th century, to defend against Ottoman invasion. The Ottoman Empire eventually captured Nicosia in 1570. Cyprus was then leased to the British Empire in 1878 and was annexed outright in 1914, before gaining independence in 1960.

Geography

Nicosia is situated in the center of the island of Cyprus, at an elevation of about 220 meters (720 ft) above sea level. The city is the seat of government as well as the main business center. The River Pedieos is the longest river in Cyprus and flows through the capital.

Demographics

As of the latest census, the population of Nicosia municipality is approximately 200,000, but the urban area extends beyond the municipal boundaries, increasing the total population to around 330,000. The city is a cultural melting pot, with a diverse mix of Greek and Turkish Cypriots, as well as smaller communities of Armenians, Maronites, and others.

Economy

Nicosia is the financial and business heart of Cyprus. The city hosts the headquarters of all Cypriot banks, many international businesses, and numerous government offices. The economy is mainly based on services, including finance, real estate, education, and health.

Culture

Nicosia is home to several museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions, including the Cyprus Museum, which houses the largest collection of Cypriot antiquities in the world, and the Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia, which tells the story of the city's history. The old city, surrounded by the Venetian walls, is known for its historic architecture, narrow streets, and traditional shops.

Education

The city is an educational hub, hosting the largest university in Cyprus, the University of Cyprus, as well as several private universities and institutions of higher education.

Transport

Nicosia is the only capital city in the world without an operational airport. The closest airport is Larnaca International Airport, which is about 50 km away. The city has a well-developed road network, and public transport is provided by buses. Plans for a tramway system have been discussed to alleviate traffic congestion.

Politics

Nicosia is unique in being the world's last divided capital. Following the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, it has been partitioned between the Republic of Cyprus and the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (recognized only by Turkey). The Green Line, monitored by the United Nations, divides the city.