This ancient Cypriot city, which is the only capital of two states in the world, has experienced a lot in its history. In Nicosia (Lefkosia), Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots live on both sides of the border passing through the main street. A city in which there are much more historical sights than in other settlements of a hospitable state cannot be called the main tourist center of Cyprus. Located inside the island, it has no access to the sea, so not all travelers are ready to sacrifice beach vacations and go on an excursion to a unique corner, the architecture of which bears imprints of Turkish influence.
The history of the construction of the cathedral
In the central square of the city there is a mosque executed not in the eastern, but in the Gothic style, which the beautiful Nicosia is proud of. Hagia Sophia was once the main temple of the whole island, until the Ottoman Empire took over Cyprus.
The construction of a religious landmark intended for the coronation of royal people began in the 13th century, and the most famous artists and architects from different countries were involved in the work. There is a legend that the delighted Pope, who appreciated the beauty of the unique architectural monument in the style of medieval French cathedrals, forgave sins a hundred days in advance to all the masters who took part in its construction.
The grace of a gothic masterpiece
Initially, the Hagia Sophia (Nicosia), the photo of which once again emphasizes its unusual appearance, was decorated with ancient paintings, sculptures and other objects of art. The facade of the temple is striking in its special beauty: French masters decorated it with elegant lace of stone and protruding porticoes. The traditional Gothic window-socket was replaced by a large window, taken up by an openwork grate.
Twelve snow-white columns, taken from a large antique Salamis, support the arches of the temple, and lancet arches with a rich pattern crown the three entrances to the architectural structure, the secrets of which Nicosia carefully preserves. Hagia Sophia is a unique monument that attracts tourists to the capital of two cultures.
Temple converted into a mosque
The religious landmark served as the place of coronation and the tomb of the rulers of the Lusignan dynasty. After Nicosia was captured by the Turks in 1571, Hagia Sophia for Christians lost its former significance. In the 70s of the XVI century, the invaders rebuilt the temple, adding minarets, and destroyed the luxurious decoration, which he was famous for. They destroyed all Christian relics, leaving Gothic stained glass windows, repainted the walls in white, and the tombstones that were inside the cathedral were hidden under oriental carpets.
The Muslims completely remade the religious monument and were extremely pleased with the result. Even ignorant tourists are surprised by the Gothic style that distinguishes the cathedral from all other religious buildings in the Middle East.
Muslim symbol of Cyprus
Christians regretted that their majestic shrine was selected by the Turks, however, new Catholic churches appeared on the territory of the city, and Muslims still honor the cathedral, which about 40 years ago became the property of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Today, in a mosque called Selimiye in honor of the Turkish Sultan Selim II who conquered the island, all Muslim holidays are held.
The height of the minarets for a long time played an important role, because the mullahs repeatedly climbed stairs in 170 steps all day to convene everyone for prayer. In the 60s of the last century, the problem was solved after the installation of special sound equipment, allowing believers to hear the minister of the cult of Islam calling for prayer. The main Muslim symbol of Cyprus is often depicted on all tourist avenues, in colors telling what modern Nicosia is famous for.
Hagia Sophia, which has turned into a mosque, demonstrates the beauty of oriental decoration. Today, every guest of the state can get inside the sights and feel the breath of time.
Where is the main mosque of the island?
All tourists arriving in Cyprus must visit the unique Hagia Sophia (Nicosia) Cathedral, whose address is: Selimiye Sk, Lefkoşa (Nicosia), Cyprus. It is located in the northern part of the city, next to the famous AliPaşa Bazaar market.
The following data will be useful for those who want to independently plan a route using the electronic navigator and get to the Hagia Sophia (Nicosia). The coordinates of the main attractions of the city: 35 ° 10′35 ″ north latitude, 33 ° 21′52 ″ east longitude.
The stunning architectural monument, which makes an indelible impression with its grandeur, conveys the atmosphere of past eras and arouses interest among all guests who have not seen anything like it.