Nicosia, The
capital of Cyprus has the distinction of being the world's only divided
city. Those who holiday in Nicosia can undertake a unique walk along the
Green Line that divides the Turkish controlled north from the southern
Republic of Cyprus. A Nicosia holiday is focussed mainly on the charming Old
City, bursting with authentic Cypriot tradition. It is also the best place
on the island for shopping. Summers are hot and dry, so this is the best
time to travel to Nicosia, although with its Mediterranean climate the city
has abundant sunshine all year round. Families prefer to enjoy the island's
seaside resorts, but everyone enjoys a day or so out of their holiday to
travel to Nicosia for some sightseeing and shopping in the Old City.
Overview.
The bustling city of Nicosia (Lefkosia) in the northern
interior has been the capital of Cyprus since the 12th century. It stands
today as Europe's only divided city, being split in two by the 'Green Line',
a United Nations buffer zone that divides the government-controlled south
from the northern section of the island that has been occupied by Turkey
since 1974. The modern city centre is surrounded by elegant tree-lined
suburbs, but the favoured tourist sector is the old town, which is being
extensively renovated. The old town is a picturesque fusion of 16th-century
walls, pedestrian precincts, pavement cafes and squares, brimming with
charm, character and sightseeing opportunities. The city, on the Mesaoria
Plain, is centre of the Nicosia District that includes the valleys of Solea
and Pitsilia and parts of Marathasa with its mountain villages, orchards,
hill resorts and plethora of Byzantine churches and monasteries. These are
within easy reach making a pleasant day trip from the city.
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