The capital of Cyprus Nicosia
Nicosia is the capital of Cyprus and the largest city located in the centre of the island. A day trip to the city you can explore all the city has to offer.
Nicosia is the only city divided into two communities. The north side is occupied by the Turkish community and the Greek community on the south.
WHERE TO START
A good place to start you tour in Nicosia is the stunning new square, Plateia Eleftherias. The architect’s Hadid flowing arcs makes a dramatic statement below the old walls. Hundreds of native trees provide shade for pedestrian avenues and a series of small gardens.
Start your walk on the eastern side of the Old City at the northern end of Leoforos Athinas. Follow the street into Antasias Toufexi with its terraced cottages and then right onto Axotheas. Continue as far as a cement-bunker barricade where the city is divided know as the green line. From here stay close to the wall as you trace along streets, alleys and squares in a generally southwest direction.
When you reach Ledra Street, walk to the crossing checkpoint, take the first left turn down the Stoa Tarsi arcade. Keep heading west, onto Artimidos with another bunker. Follow the zigzag road to Pafou, where you find the Roman Catholic Holy Cross Church.
This part of the city is surrounded by narrow streets and alleys serving the needs of that period of time.
Stop at Famagusta Gate and take some memorable photos on the city’s east side dating to the Venetian time. Famagusta gate is the best-preserved of the three original gates that once led into the Old City. It’s timeless wooden door and a sloping facade opens into a tunnel leading through the rampart wall. Beyond the tunnel on the right is a small open-air arena, where summertime concerts are held.Â
LAIKI YITONIA
Laiki Yitonia is the only one of overtly touristy neighbourhood in the Old City. It manages to transcend the legions of touts trying to lure you into restaurants with mediocre food. Its narrow lanes drip gives the little neighbourhood a vintage charm.
Deep in Old City near the Green Line, nothing much has changed. Here you can sit in one of the traditional coffee shops and have a Greek coffee. This is where you adjust to the Cypriot style especially in the morning. Consider a traditional breakfast of olives, grilled or fresh halloumi, bread, tomatoes and, of course, coffee.
Finally stroll along Ledras street where you can do some shopping, buy your souvenirs and artisans. Take some memorable photos to add to your portfolio.
beautifull place
Me encanta este lugar . Muy bonito.
http://www.nicolás.es