Overview
Join me on a journey through time in the last divided city of North Lefkosia, strolling the back streets of the old city feels like dropping into an earlier era.
Our walk through the medieval city starts in the district of Arab Ahmet, this area was one of the original 12 quarters as they existed shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Nicosia in 1570, where Armenian Cypriots had been concentrated since the Ottoman conquest, the entire area is imbued with a heady sense of yesteryear and is one of Nicosia's most interesting neighborhoods to stroll through.
As we continue our path we shall stop at the Arab Ahmet Mosque followed by the Buyuk Khan, Cyprus. We continue our walk through the market area and visit the most prominent landmark in the old city, the Cathedral of St. Sophia, today called Selimiye Mosque.
Our journey ends at the Indoor Market, you will have some time to explore all the amazing local produce before our return.
Kindly note that a minimum of two guests are required.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Tea and coffee
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
The address is Markou Drakou Avenue, 1102 Nicosia.
The parking lot where we will meet is situated to the west of Nicosia. It is located near the Green Line, just before the Ledra Palace Checkpoint on the right side. On maps, add "Ledra Palace Crossing Point"
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What to expect
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Buyuk Han
30 min
Cyprus’ best-preserved example of Ottoman caravanserai architecture. The Han was built to provide accommodation for travelers from Anatolia and other parts of Cyprus. Today the Great Inn has been revived as a thriving arts center, consisting of several galleries and workshops, and has once again become the hub of North Lefkosia's Old City bustle. Folklore dance shows, piano recitals, and drama displays are also common nowadays within the walls, and this attraction is a must-see when visiting Nicosia.
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Selimiye Camii
20 min
We shall explore the most prominent landmark in Lefkoisa, the Selimiye Mosque, a cross between a French Gothic church and a mosque, its fascinating history stretches back to the 13th century. Selimiye Mosque historically known as the Cathedral of Saint Sophia is a former Roman Catholic cathedral converted into a mosque.
It is the the largest surviving historical building in Lefkosia, sources claim it “may have been the largest church built in the Eastern Mediterranean in the millennium between the rise of Islam and the late Ottoman period.” -
Medieval Venetian Walls
20 min
You will see the Venetian walls and how they form a border around the Old City. They are so unusual that once seen on a map, they will never be forgotten as a design synonymous with the unique shape of this ancient fortification.
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Kyrenia Gate
10 min
You shall witness one of the three gates in the Venetian walls that encircles the old city of Lefkosia, providing access to the city from the north.
For over a thousand years, Lefkosia was a walled city, from the Lusignans through to the Ottomans. During the Renaissance era, the Venetians reconstructed great walls around the capital threatened by an impending Ottoman Empire. -
Kumarcilar Han
20 min
The Kumarcilar Han also called the Gambler’s Inn,it is also known as a caravanserai.
Built around the end of the 17th century, it is much smaller and modest when compared with Büyük Han, but nonetheless typical of an Ottoman inner-city commercial inn.
A monumental carved gate at the entrance dates to before the Ottoman conquest, and experts believe that the structure stands on a much earlier building, possibly the ruins of a monastery.
This Han has been fully restored today and is used as an attraction with arts and craft shops. -
Bedesten - Eski Ayanikola Kilisesi
15 min
We shall walk around the Bedesten, one of the most important historical buildings in Lefkosia, reflecting the multicultural life and diverse past of the city.
The Bedesten has a long history spanning more than one thousand years. Originally built as a church in about the 6th century, it was expanded and rebuilt between the 12th and 16th centuries and converted to a covered market during the period of Ottoman rule.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Asia/Nicosia).
Additional Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Explore North Lefkosia, "The Last Divided Capital City in Europe"
Can I cancel Explore North Lefkosia, "The Last Divided Capital City in Europe" for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 2–3 hours.
Where does it start?
The address is Markou Drakou Avenue, 1102 Nicosia. The parking lot where we will meet is situated to the west of Nicosia.
What's included?
- Tea and coffee
Which places does it visit?
It visits Buyuk Han, Selimiye Camii, Medieval Venetian Walls, Kyrenia Gate, Kumarcilar Han, Bedesten - Eski Ayanikola Kilisesi.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
What fitness level is needed?
It is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Eleni Ellinas
