The capital and important cities of Northern Cyprus are Nicosia, Famagusta and Kyrenia. These towns are known for their thriving tourism industry, as well as their lively bars and restaurants.
The city of Nicosia is a fascinating mix of Greek, Venetian, Ottoman and British influences. Its walled old town is a beautiful sight.
Nicosia
The capital and important cities of Northern Cyprus are Nicosia on the southern side (the Republic of Cyprus) and Turkish-Cypriot-controlled Nicosia on the northern side (the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus). The barbed wire and guard towers of the Green Line cuts the city in half, making it one of the world’s only divided capitals.
In Nicosia, as in most divided cities, the scars of war linger. The UN-patrolled buffer zone, which runs across the city from east to west, contains road ends, gun ports and bullet-pocked buildings.
Nevertheless, it is safe to walk around the two parts of Nicosia. It is a fascinating experience to cross the Green Line and see what it is like on the other side.
Famagusta
Famagusta, Greek Ammokhostos, Turkish Gazi Magusa, is the largest and most important city of the Turkish Cypriot-administered part of Northern Cyprus. It lies on the island’s east coast in a bay between Capes Greco and Eloea, about 37 miles (55 km) east of Nicosia.
The city has preserved some of its most important landmarks, including Othello’s Tower on the north-easterly corner of the Venetian walls and a ruined bastion known as Martinengo. Ruins of many other buildings also exist, among them the Gothic cathedral (Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque), which was once a Catholic church but has now been converted into a mosque.
The city’s ancient ruins are among the main attractions of Famagusta. One of them, the necropolis of Salamis, is 8km north of the walled city. Another, Engomi, is a prehistoric settlement.
Kyrenia
The capital and important city of Northern Cyprus is Kyrenia. It is a bustling and busy harbour town with a beautiful old harbour, seawall and a number of quaint cafes and restaurants.
The ancient history of Kyrenia is reflected in the numerous archeological sites found and preserved here. One inscription from the 2nd century BC states that ‘Kyrenians Demos’ were benefactors of the Oracle at Delphi.
It is also noted that the Romans left their mark on the town by constructing a castle to protect Kyrenia from raids. It was modified during the Venetian rule, where the original castle was demolished and replaced with thickset circular towers that could withstand cannon fire.
When the British took over Cyprus in 1878, they established a road through the mountain pass to connect Kyrenia with Nicosia and rebuilt the harbour. This led to increased tourist trade and Kyrenia became a popular resting point for ex-patriots from the island’s capital.
Lefke
The capital and important cities of Northern Cyprus, Nicosia, Famagusta, Guzelyurt, Iskele, and Lefke, offer visitors a unique combination of natural and historical beauties. Warm people, diverse cultural values and a smiling face are the hallmarks of life in Northern Cyprus.
The beautiful and picturesque town of Lefke is located in the greenest area of the island, surrounded by citrus groves and with a rich culture and history. It is the home of the renowned European University of Lefke (EUL), founded in 1990 as a State Foundation University, which is recognised by the Council of Higher Education in Turkey and the European Union.
With a thriving and diverse economy, Lefke has an important position in Northern Cyprus and is considered to be one of the most desirable and sought-after destinations on the island. This is a good reason to make the most of your visit and explore this beautiful town and the surrounding areas!