Nicosia

Introduction

Turkish Side of Nicosia

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Nicosia (called Lefkosia as well) is the capital and largest city of Cyprus with a total urban population well over 300,000. It is located along the shores of the Pedieos River and situated in the cental part of the island. It is the cultural and administrative centre of the country and the seat of government. Although it is one of the most important business centres on the island, the city itself sees fewer tourists than the coastal areas, where most hotels and resorts are. Still, it is a very interesting place to visit because of the fact that part of the city is Greek and part is Turkish, the latter belonging to the seperate state of Northern Cyprus, only recognized by Turkey. Nicosia is today's only divided capital in the world. The city is divided by the so called Green Line and just recently (2008), a symbolic wall dividing the two parts at Ledra Street was opened, trying to reunify the island. For travellers, the city has a wide variety of landmarks and good facilities and spending a few days here justifies to the significant role this city plays both out of a historical viewpoint and the current tense situation.

Sights and Activities

Hamam Omerye

Hamam Omerye is located in the heart of the old town - at 8 Tyllirias Square, 1016 - within the ancient Venetian walls. Find your way to the 'Ohi' roundabout, then head straight all the way until you find the Omeriye Mosque on your right - you can't miss it. Turn right here and the Hamam Baths are on your left.
Hamam Omerye is a 14th century building restored to operate once again as a Turkish bath. The site's history dates back to the 14th century, when it stood as an Augustinian church of St. Mary, built by the Lusignan (French) and later maintained by the Venetians. In 1571, Mustapha Pasha converted the church into a mosque, believing that this particular spot is where the prophet Omer rested during his visit to Lefkosia. Most of the original building was destroyed by Ottoman artillery, although the door of the main entrance still belongs to the 14th century Lusignan building, whilst remains of a later Renaissance phase can be seen at the north-eastern side of the monument. Couples on Mondays, men only Tue/Thu/Sat, women only Wed/Fri/Sun. €20 for two hours, including towels, disposable underwear, tea, sponge etc.

Weather

Nicosia has a typical Mediterranean climate with warm or hot summers from May to September and mild winters, when most of the rain falls. Nicosia has average highs in summer of around 37 °C, sometimes hitting 44 °C during July or August. Winters are mild, generally between 15 °C and 17 °C at daytime. December and January are the coldest and wettest months, though Nicosia is drier compared to the coast and places at higher altitude.

Getting There

By Plane

Ercan airport is located in Northern (Turkish) Cyprus. There are flights from and to London - Heathrow, London - Gatwick, London - Stansted, Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara, Adana and Antalya.

Getting Around

By Car

If you are planning to drive between Turkish and Greek parts, you will need to get separate insurance on both sides, as both countries do not recognize other side's car insurance.

By Foot

Crossing the border on foot is highly recommended as this is a rare experience to cross a border in the middle of a capital.

Eat

Café-Restaurant is located at Erodos Patriarhou Gregoriou 1, Old Town, Phone: +357 22 752250, info@visiterodos.com. Erodos Cafe-Restaurant within the Venetian walls and in the heart of Old Town Nicosia, Cyprus - Live music, fine wines, good beers and traditional, yet eccentric gastronomy. In the heart & soul of old town Lekosia, lays an oasis of classic excitement. Erodos, conveying a spirit of fine love. Indeed, an establishment unique to Cyprus and the world, with dignity and composure, entertainment and pleasure. Tues-Sat: 10:00am – 2:00pm, Sun: 4:00pm – 2:00am, Mon: private functions.

Drink

Babylon - 6 Iasonos Street, 2021 Lefkosia Tel: +357 22 665757, info@babylon.com.cy. Just behinid the Spidernet building on Grivas Diyenis Street (Honda lights). Popular, long established bar in a converted 1950's house. Has a large beer garden for the hot summers and cosy log fires for the cold winters. Beer on tap, vast variety of bottled beer and drinks, cocktails and good food.

The legend of Babylon lives on and again flourishes as the centre of learning and freethinking. Enter the bar and gardens of Babylon, where thoughts excel and an environment of creativity, pleasure, and relaxation can once again be discovered. It is indeed a challenge to describe the ambiance and atmosphere of this most ancient wonder, just as much as it is exclusive and individualised by your own unique memories and specific to your temporal mood.

A blend of old and new, a mixture of love and hate, Babylon is truly unrivalled and undoubtedly one of the last surviving momentums of this ancient school of thought. You can be sure of one thing. Babylon is not just a bar, pub or restaurant. It is home to some of the world's greatest thinkers.

Sleep

Budget

Keep Connected

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls