Nicosia (Λευκωσία) is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Cyprus located in the centre of the island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is the business centre of Cyprus with the oldest university of the country, the seat of government and the Bank of Cyprus and a developed infrastructure.
The Green Line is the line which divides the city into a Turkish and a Cypriot part. After the fall of the Berlin Wall (Germany) in 1989 it became Europe’s last divided city.
The old town is the cultural centre of the city where you can find many restaurants and bars, handicraft businesses and small boutiques, especially near to Famagusta Gate (πύλη Αμμόχωστου). It is quite small, so it is possible to navigate on foot. Ledra Street is the busiest shopping street with more modern and touristy stores.
The old town is surrounded by a Venetian wall built up at the end of the 16th century. The Paphos Gate was one of the three entrances to the old town and is still maintained.
There are many museums in Nicosia. The Cyprus Museum is the oldest and biggest archeological museum in Cyprus. Additionally, you can visit the Ethnographic Museum of Cyprus, the Ethnological Museum and the Cyprus Museum of Natural History.
The Nicosia Municipal Theatre is worth a visit as well. It is built in the neoclassical style and offers a varied programme of cultural events during the whole year.
Hamam Omerye is located in the heart of the old town and has been used as a mosque and Hamam Bath since the 14th century. If you are interested in religious sites, you should definitely visit St. John Cathedral Church, Ayios Antonios Church, Faneromeni Church and Arabalar Mosque.
Nicosia is a city with many historical sights, but attractions for families and children are quite limited. A 25-minute drive away there is the largest ostrich farm and park in Europe, the Ostrich Wonderland Theme Park. Families can spend their time learning more about the animals or just playing at the playgrounds.
The Municipal Gardens of Nicosia with its playground area and beautiful arrangements of flowers has become a popular place to hang out for families.
Every October 1st Cyprus celebrates its Independence Day with festivals and a big military parade in the centre of Nicosia.
Aglandjia Festival is celebrated with dance, theatrical and music performances in June or July. It is a cultural festival, which lasts about two weeks.
The Rainbow Festival, celebrated in November, is an anti-racism, multicultural festival with dance, music and information kiosks informing guests about discrimination and human rights in Cyprus.
In May, guests of the International Chamber Music Festival can enjoy classical music performances. The yearly Cyprus International Film Festival in Nicosia can be compared to the one in Cannes (France). It offers a wide range of local and international movies, but not the same presence of celebrities.