Nicosia The Capital of Cyprus
Nicosia is one of the five cities of Cyprus, located in the central part of the island. It is the largest city in terms of both area and population. The history of Nicosia dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement in the area dating back to the Neolithic period.
A Rich And Diverse History
The city has a rich and diverse history, having been ruled by various civilizations over the centuries. It was under the control of the Assyrians, Persians, Egyptians, and Romans before being conquered by the Byzantines in the 4th century. The Byzantine rule lasted for several centuries, during which time Nicosia became an important centre of trade and culture.
Under The Rule of The Lusignan Dynasty
In the 12th century, Nicosia came under the rule of the Lusignan dynasty, who built the famous walls of the city to protect it from invasions. The walls still stand today and are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Lusignan period also saw the construction of many churches and monasteries, which are still important landmarks in the capital.
Conquered by The Ottoman Empire
In 1570, Nicosia was conquered by the Ottoman Empire and became the Capital of the island. Under Ottoman rule, Nicosia experienced significant growth and development, with the construction of mosques, public buildings, and markets. The Ottomans also established a system of local government, which had a lasting impact on the district.
Under British Rule
In 1878, it came under British control as part of the Cyprus Convention, and Nicosia remained the capital of the island. The British made significant investments in infrastructure and modernized the city, laying the foundations for the development of the district in the 20th century.
Cyprus Gained Independence
In 1960, Cyprus gained independence, and Nicosia continued to be the capital of the newly formed Republic of Cyprus. However, the city was divided in 1974 following the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, and Nicosia became the last divided capital in the world. The division has had a significant impact on the district, with many villages and towns being affected by the conflict.
A Centre of Commerce, Education And Culture,
Despite the division Nicosia has continued to develop and grow. It is an important centre of commerce, education, and culture, with many historical sites and museums attracting tourists from around the world. Nicosia is also home to the University of Cyprus and other educational institutions, making it a hub of academic and research activity.
The Island Remains Divided
In recent years, efforts have been made to reunify the Island, and there is hope that a resolution to the division of Nicosia will be found. The district has a bright future ahead, with its rich history and diverse culture making it a unique and vibrant place to live and visit.
