Nicosia, Cyprus

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Nicosia, Cyprus

Region: Nicosia

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Geographic Coordinates: 35.172500, 33.365000

Climate: Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and mild winters.

Population: 330000

Language: Greek

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Nicosia, The capital city of Cyprus, Is a fascinating destination with a rich history and culture. The city’s complex past dates back to ancient times, With evidence of human settlement dating back to the Bronze Age. Today, Nicosia is a bustling modern city that blends traditional Cypriot charm with contemporary amenities. The Old Town area is one of Nicosia’s most striking features. This walled section of the city dates back to medieval times and boasts many important landmarks and attractions.

Visitors can explore narrow streets lined with traditional buildings or admire stunning examples of Gothic architecture such as St John’s Cathedral. The Cyprus Museum is another must-see attraction in Nicosia – one of Europe’s oldest museums dedicated to archaeology. It showcases an extensive collection of artifacts from across Cyprus’ history, Including pottery, Jewelry, Sculptures and more. For those interested in contemporary art, The Leventis Municipal Museum houses an impressive collection by local artists as well as international works from around Europe. Nicosia also has a vibrant food scene that reflects its diverse cultural heritage.

Visitors can sample delicious Cypriot specialties such as halloumi cheese or souvlaki at local restaurants or indulge in international cuisine at trendy cafes or bars throughout the city. for those looking for some retail therapy during their visit to Nicosia there are plenty options available too! From chic boutiques selling designer clothing brands through market stalls offering handmade crafts – there really something for everyone here! then: whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins or experiencing modern-day culture; sampling delicious food or indulging your shopping addiction – Nicosia truly has something for everyone!

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1. Ledra Street is a popular pedestrian shopping street located in the heart of Nicosia.
2. Selimiye Mosque was once a cathedral and is now a mosque known for its impressive architecture and rich history.
3. The Cyprus Museum is the largest archaeological museum on the island, showcasing artifacts from ancient times to present day.
4. Famagusta Gate used to be one of three gates that led into Nicosia’s old city walls, but now it serves as a cultural center and exhibition space.
5. Archbishop’s Palace is the official residence of the Archbishop of Cyprus and features beautiful gardens and historical exhibits.
6. Buyuk Han, an Ottoman-era inn, has been restored and converted into a cultural center with shops and cafes for visitors to enjoy.
7. St John’s Cathedral is an awe-inspiring medieval church located within Nicosia’s old city walls that boasts stunning frescoes and intricate carvings.
8. Venetian Walls are an impressive fortification system built by Venetians in the 16th century to protect Nicosia from invaders.
9. Omeriye Hamam was once an Ottoman-era bathhouse but has since been restored as a cultural center featuring exhibitions and events for visitors to explore.
10. Liberty Monument stands tall in central Nicosia near Ledra Street, commemorating Cypriot independence from British rule in 1960.

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1. Financial Services: Nicosia is home to many international banks and financial institutions, making it a significant financial center in Cyprus.
2. Tourism: Nicosia is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, attracting a large number of tourists every year.
3. Real Estate: With the growing economy, there has been an increase in demand for real estate properties in Nicosia.
4. Education: Several universities and educational institutions are present in the city that attracts students from all over the world.
5. Technology: The technology sector is rapidly growing in Nicosia with many startups emerging recently.
6. Retail: There are several shopping centers and retail outlets located throughout the city catering to both locals and tourists alike.
7. Healthcare: The healthcare industry is well-established in Nicosia with several hospitals and medical centers providing quality care to patients.
8. Manufacturing: Companies producing textiles, food products, electronics, etc., contribute to the manufacturing industry’s presence in Nicosia.

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1. The founding of the city in the 4th century BC by King Nicocles.
2. The rule of the Lusignan dynasty from 1192 to 1489, which saw the construction of many important buildings, including churches and palaces.
3. The Ottoman conquest of Nicosia in 1570, which led to a period of decline for the city.
4. Archbishop Makarios III, who served as both president and archbishop during his tenure from 1960 to 1977.
5. The division of Nicosia into two parts following the Turkish invasion in 1974.
6. Ledra Street crossing point opening on April 3rd,2008
7. Ledra Palace Hotel located within UN buffer zone that remained closed since its abandonment in August 1974 after Turkish troops invaded Cyprus
8. St Sophia Cathedral – one of few surviving Gothic buildings on island built between late thirteenth and early fourteenth centuries
9. The Venetian Walls that surround Old City dating back to mid-16th century

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1. Cyprus Museum
2. Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia
3. Selimiye Mosque (formerly St. Sophia Cathedral)
4. Büyük Han (Great Inn)
5. Famagusta Gate
6. The Venetian Walls of Nicosia
7. Archbishop’s Palace and Byzantine Museum
8. Ledra Street Crossing Point
9. Shacolas Tower Museum & Observatory
10. The Cyprus Folk Art Museum

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1. Omonia Nicosia FC was founded in 1948 and is the most successful football club in Cyprus with 20 domestic league titles and 14 domestic cups. They have also had success in European competitions, reaching the quarter-finals of the UEFA Cup in 1992.
2. APOEL FC was founded in 1926 and is another successful football club from Nicosia with 28 domestic league titles and 21 domestic cups to their name. They have also reached the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League twice, in 2012 and 2017.
3. Nea Salamina Famagusta FC was founded in Famagusta but relocated to Nicosia due to political unrest on the island. They have won one Cypriot Cup and finished as runners-up four times.
4. AEK Larnaca FC is based in Larnaca but has a significant following in Nicosia as well. The club has won one Cypriot Cup and finished as runners-up three times.
5. Ethnikos Achnas FC is based outside of Nicosia but plays their home games at GSP Stadium. Although they have never won a major trophy, they have been consistently competitive since their foundation in 1968.
6. Keravnos BC is the most successful basketball team from Nicosia with six national championships and eight national cups to their name.
7. Apollon Limassol BC, although primarily based on the southern coast of Cyprus, has a significant following among basketball fans in Nicosia thanks to their success over the years which includes five national championships and nine national cups.

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1. Nicosia Carnival is a vibrant festival that occurs before the start of Lent, featuring parades, music, dancing and street performances.
2. The Cyprus Film Days International Festival is an annual event held in April that highlights both local and international films.
3. In 2017, Nicosia was named the European Capital of Culture alongside Aarhus in Denmark. Throughout the year, the city hosted various cultural events to commemorate this honor.
4. The Medieval Festival takes place every May and celebrates Nicosia’s medieval history with reenactments, food stalls and live music.
5. Held in June each year, the Cyprus Beer Festival showcases local breweries’ beers along with live musical performances.
6. Since 1998, the International Children’s Festival has brought children from around the world together to participate in cultural workshops and performances during July.
7. The Cyprus Theatre Festival takes place during September-October annually and features theatrical productions from both local and international companies.
8. During December-January period Christmas markets are held throughout Nicosia where visitors can enjoy traditional foods & drinks while browsing unique gifts for sale at market stalls.

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• Meze: This is a traditional Cypriot dish that consists of small plates of various foods. Some popular meze dishes include hummus, tzatziki, grilled halloumi cheese, and stuffed grape leaves.
• Kebabs: Kebabs are also a popular dish in Cyprus, particularly lamb kebabs.
• Souvlaki: This is a Greek dish that has become popular in Cyprus as well. It consists of skewered meat (usually pork or chicken) cooked over an open flame.
• Stifado: This is a stew made with beef or rabbit and onions cooked in red wine and spices.
• Ttavas: Another stew-like dish made with lamb or beef cooked with potatoes, tomatoes, and onions.

Some popular restaurants in Nicosia to try these dishes include:

1. To Kazani Traditional Taverna
2. Zanettos Tavern
3. Vino Cultura Wine Bar & Restaurant
4. Pyxida Fish Tavern
5. Ta Piatakia Kouzina & Bar

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1. Athalassa National Forest Park: This park covers an area of 840 hectares and is a popular spot for picnicking, hiking, and cycling.
2. Pedieos River Linear Park: This park follows the course of the Pedieos River and offers walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
3. Nicosia Municipal Gardens: Located in the heart of the city, these gardens feature a variety of plants, fountains, and sculptures.
4. Eleftheria Square: This public square hosts cultural events throughout the year such as concerts and festivals.
5. Venetian Walls Park: This park surrounds the historic Venetian Walls that once protected Nicosia from invaders. It features walking paths, benches, and views of the city’s skyline.
6. Cyprus Museum: The museum showcases artifacts from Cyprus’ ancient history including pottery, statues, coins etc.
7. Ledra Observatory Museum & Observatory Tower: The observatory tower provides panoramic views over Nicosia while also being home to a small museum showcasing Cypriot art.
8. Olympic House Sports Centre: A sports complex which offers tennis courts, basketball courts, football pitches etc.

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