CYPRUS - NICOSIA

CYPRUS

Capital: Nicosia

Geographical size: 9 251 km²

Population: 858 000 (2014)

Official EU language(s): Greek

Political system: presidential republic

EU member country since: 1 May 2004

Currency: Euro.  

NICOSIA

Nicosia is the capital and seat of government of the Republic of Cyprus, and  the farthest southeast of all EU member states' capitals. It has a population of 100.000 people more or less.

PLACES TO VISIT:

• Famagusta Gate: Famagusta Gate forms part of the Medieval walls of Nicosia. Originally, Famagusta Gate was called Porta Guiliana and was one of three main entry points into the city. 
• Laiki Geitonia: For souvenir shopping, visitors can walk around Laiki Geitonia. Along this traditional neighborhood there are a lot of shops selling traditional keepsakes and crafts. It is a pedestrian-only area with narrow streets and renovated houses, so there is a lot of architectural charm. Laiki Geitonia is also a great place to do a coffee break.
• Farmer market: Saturday mornings farmers and craftsman from different villages (also Nicosia) come to this wonderful market to sell local crafts, honey, cheese, fresh fruit and vegetables... 

MUSEUMS

• Cyprus Museum: The Cyprus Museum is often considered as Cyprus’ number one museum because there are rare and extensive collections of Cypriot antiquities. The Cyprus Museum has 14 galleries about Cypriot history, culture and art.

• Leventis museum: There are over 10,000 pieces of Cypriot artifacts, artwork, Medieval ceramics, antique maps, Ottoman-era jewelry and historical photographs in this modern museum. Over 300 private donations helped to fill this impressive museum with Cypriot heritage.

WHAT TO EAT

• Meze: Meze is a traditional selection of hot and cold appetizers, meze is basically Cyprus’s equivalent to Spanish tapas. A meze dish could include Mediterranean specialties like Tzatziki—a yogurt dip made with garlic, cucumber, and olive oil; Tahini— a paste of crushed sesame seeds, olive oil, lemon, and garlic; Taramosalata — a type of fish roe mixed with pureed potatoes, olive oil, lemon juice and onions; Hummus— a traditional pureed chickpea and Tahini dip; and Haloumi— a grilled and spiced sheep’s cheese.

• Kebabs: Kebabs are mostly chunks of meat—such as lamb, pork, chicken, and fish—that’s cooked on a skewer and seasoned with olive oil, oregano, and lemon. Kebabs are usually served with tzatziki and pita bread.