Nicosia, or Lefkosia in Greek, is the capital of Cyprus and it is the only city situated inland. The city was fundamentally altered by the Turk invasion in 1974, and since then both the island and Nicosia has been split in two by the Green Line.
At first sight it appears to be a chaotic – developing city, with lots of cars, buildings, and constructions sites for modern skyscrapers, shops etc. and this modernity could smothered tourist who will love to discover its ancient secrets.
Just beyond Ledra Street, one of the main pedestrian street of the center characterized by a mix of shops, restaurants, chain brands and tourist souvenirs shops, the old city of Nicosia surrounded by the historical Venetian walls, offers a pleasant experience. In this area history, art, architecture, religion and tradition mixed themselves creating a fascinating atmosphere both for locals and tourists.
You can visit the Church of Pangia Faneromeni, the largest church within the walls; the Byzantine Museum; the National Struggle Museum; Famagusta Gate etc. Or you can admire the several graffiti which add an air of fascination and modernity to this historical area.
While discovering these streets, I suggest to take a break at Apomero Cafeteria, run by an old sweet lady and her family, drink a Cypriot Coffee and eat exquisite homemade sweets. You will appreciate the chilling, intimate atmosphere. If you go to this cafeteria in the evening you can try Zivania, a Cypriot alcoholic drink produced from the distillation of a mixture of grape, and if it is winter but you prefer to sit outside ask for a blanket and enjoy your drink!
And between tiny houses, in narrow streets typical of small ancient village, you can be pleased by intimate pubs, surrounded by plants and flowers, and decorated with long time ago photos or objects. In some hidden corners it is also possible to find antiques shops owned by old Cypriot men who usually sit on wooden chairs just outside their shop or artistic workshops.
So let yourself be carried by the magic atmosphere of the Old City of Nicosia!
