Nicosia Selimiye Mosque - Explore the Historic Mosque

The Nicosia Selimiye Mosque, formerly known as St. Sophia Cathedral, is a historic and culturally significant building located in the divided city of Nicosia, Cyprus. Here’s a detailed description of the Nicosia Selimiye Mosque, including visitor information, things to do, and nearby attractions:

1. Visitor Fee: there is typically no entrance fee to visit the Nicosia Selimiye Mosque. Visitors can explore the mosque and its surroundings without any admission charges. However, this information may have changed, so it’s advisable to check the latest information before your visit.
2. Transportation:

• Car: The most convenient way to reach the Nicosia Selimiye Mosque is by renting a car or using your own vehicle. Nicosia is accessible by road, and there are parking facilities available in the vicinity.
• Public Buses: Public buses connect Nicosia with other major cities and towns in Cyprus. You can check the current bus schedule for routes and timings.
• Walking: If you are already in the Old City of Nicosia, the mosque is easily accessible on foot.

3. Things to Do:

• Explore the Mosque: The Nicosia Selimiye Mosque is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture and a symbol of the city’s complex history. Visitors can explore the interior of the mosque, which features architectural details, Islamic art, and historical significance.
• Learn About History: The mosque has a rich history, having served as a cathedral during the medieval period. Visitors can learn about the building’s transformation from a Christian cathedral to an Islamic mosque.
• Photography: The mosque’s impressive architecture and interior make it a popular subject for photography.
• Enjoy the Surroundings: Nicosia’s Old City is filled with historic buildings, narrow streets, and cultural sites. Visitors can explore the old town, visit nearby museums, and enjoy the unique atmosphere.

4. Why People Enjoy Coming Here:

• Historical and Cultural Significance: Visitors are drawn to the Nicosia Selimiye Mosque for its historical importance and its role as a symbol of the city’s multicultural history.
• Architectural Beauty: The mosque’s stunning architectural details, including pointed arches and intricate stone carvings, make it an architectural gem.
• Cultural Exploration: The mosque provides an opportunity to explore the complex and diverse history of Nicosia and Cyprus.
• Photography: Photographers appreciate the mosque’s photogenic qualities, both inside and out.

5. Age of the Place: St. Sophia Cathedral, now known as the Nicosia Selimiye Mosque, was constructed in the 13th century during the Lusignan period. It has undergone transformations over the centuries, including its conversion into a mosque during the Ottoman period.
6. List of Activities:

• Exploring the mosque’s architecture and interior
• Learning about the history of Nicosia and the mosque’s transformation
• Taking photographs of the mosque and its surroundings
• Exploring the historic Old City of Nicosia

7. Additional Nearby Attractions:

• Cyprus Museum: Visit the Cyprus Museum in Nicosia, which houses a significant collection of archaeological artifacts from throughout Cyprus’s history.
• Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia: Explore the Leventis Museum, dedicated to the history and culture of Nicosia.
• Venetian Walls: Take a walk along the Venetian Walls of Nicosia, which encircle the old town and offer scenic views of the city.
• Buyuk Han: Visit Buyuk Han, a historic caravanserai in Nicosia that has been converted into a cultural center with shops, cafes, and galleries.