NICOSIA
The bustling city of Nicosia (Lefkosia) in the northern
interior has been the capital of Cyprus since the 12th
century. It stands today as Europe's only divided city,
being split in two by the 'Green Line', a United Nations
buffer zone that divides the government-controlled south
from the northern section of the island that has been
occupied by Turkey since 1974. The modern city centre is
surrounded by elegant tree-lined suburbs, but the
favoured tourist sector is the old town, which is being
extensively renovated. The old town is a picturesque
fusion of 16th-century walls, pedestrian precincts,
pavement cafes and squares, brimming with charm,
character and sightseeing opportunities. The city, on
the Mesaoria Plain, is centre of the Nicosia District
that includes the valleys of Solea and Pitsilia and
parts of Marathasa with its mountain villages, orchards,
hill resorts and plethora of Byzantine churches and
monasteries. These are within easy reach making a
pleasant day trip from the city. |