Nicosia / Λευκωσία

Cyprus

Cyprus is a divided county, its inhabitants (Greek and Turkish Cypriots) started incidents in 1963, occurred mainly because of the disagreements on political and legal issues. The situation was out of control and the coexistence of the two communities seemed impossible. To prevent any other escalation of tension, in 1974 was set a ‘green line’ that extends approximately 180 km across the island. Since then, Turkish Cypriots live in the north and Greek Cypriots in the south of the island, and the ‘green line’ serves as the border controlled by UN.

Most interesting, the fate of Nicosia (capital of Cyprus) was sealed with this line, splitting city into two parts. Ledra Street is Nicosia’s main shopping street. Not particularly picturesque or atmospheric, but it’s more notable for its history than its appearance. It’s was quite unusual to walk down the street, siping coffee and socialise in the sunshine, then showing my passport halfway down the street in order to cross to another part of the city. All that has its charms.

Greek and Turkish culture dominate, of course each in its own part of the city. This is most visible in local delicacies. Souvlaki, halloumi cheese, Greek salad for lunch in the south and for the desert baklava, halva and tea in the north. Actually in my case was sweet breakfast in the north, then lunch on the south. Sweets have always been my priority.

I hope you like this little photo diary I put together to share my time adventuring around Nicosia. Let me know if you have visited Cyprus and how did you like it. If anyone has any feedback I’d be so appreciative to receive your comments and questions below. 

♥︎ Unta