Strolling through the streets of Nicosia leaves an imprint on your soul that remains long after you leave. Known as Lefkosia in Greek, Nicosia is more than just a city; it’s a vibrant, living testament to Cyprus’s complex history, a place where resilience pulses through every street and stone.
The division of Nicosia dates back to 1974, when a coup in Cyprus seeking unification with Greece led to a Turkish invasion in the north. This turbulent chapter left the city split in two, with the Green Line, a UN-monitored buffer zone, running through the heart of Nicosia. This line is a powerful reminder of Cyprus’s unresolved conflicts yet also as a symbol of its people’s hopes for reunion.
Walking through the old town on the southern side, I am every time captivated by beauty of Nicosia’s center; narrow streets filled with the aroma of Cyprus coffee mixing with traditional tavern dishes. The architecture is a rich blend of Venetian, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences—each building sharing a part of the city’s layered history and diverse cultural heritage.
Crossing over to the northern side of the city felt like turning a page to a new chapter within the same, beautiful story. The differences in culture, currency, flags and language became apparent, but the charm was unmissable, with its equally beautiful traditional architecture and its bustling streets. The separation is clear, but so is the shared past that continues to connect both sides.
Every time I’m standing at the Ledra Street crossing point, where the two sides of the city meet, it feels unreal. It’s a place where you can truly feel the weight of history, and the line dividing not just the city but also its people feels almost visible. Knowing that Nicosia is the last divided capital in the world brings a deep sadness—and a hope for a possible solution.
Yet, despite this division, Nicosia is full of life, hope, and a profound sense of identity. Nicosia isn’t only a capital but a powerful symbol of resilience, where the past’s scars are visible, but so is the spirit of people determined to keep moving forward. If you’re a curious traveler, exploring Nicosia is a must when in Cyprus, it is truly an unforgettable city.
