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Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia: A Journey Through Time

Discover Nicosia's captivating history at the Leventis Municipal Museum, home to over 10,000 artifacts showcasing the city's evolution from ancient times to the present day, with free admission.

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The Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia chronicles the captivating history of Nicosia from ancient times to the present day. Housed within a beautifully restored complex of traditional buildings in the heart of the old city, the museum boasts a collection of over 10,000 artifacts, including maps, costumes, photographs, and medieval pottery. Visitors can explore the city's evolution through various periods, from the ancient Nicosia to the Byzantine, Medieval, Ottoman, and British eras, culminating in the modern Republic of Cyprus. With temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and guided tours, the Leventis Museum offers an engaging and insightful experience for all ages, providing a window into the rich cultural heritage of the island's capital. Admission is free, making it an accessible and enriching destination for tourists and locals alike. Don't miss the opportunity to delve into the heart of Nicosia's past at this award-winning museum.

A brief summary to The Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia

  • Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the exhibits.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events to enhance your visit.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collection and learn about Nicosia's history.
  • Take advantage of the free admission and consider making a voluntary donation to support the museum's mission.
  • Explore the charming Laiki Geitonia neighborhood surrounding the museum, with its traditional architecture and local shops.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Eleftheria Square, a central point in Nicosia, walk northeast along Ledra Street. Turn right onto Onasagorou Street, then left onto Hippocratous Street. The Leventis Municipal Museum will be on your left, housed in a complex of traditional buildings. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and offers a glimpse into the heart of the old city.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the area around Eleftheria Square. From the bus stop at Eleftheria Square, follow the walking directions above. A single bus fare within Nicosia is approximately €2.40. Consider purchasing a day pass for €15.00 if you plan to use public transport extensively. The bus is a convenient option, especially during the hotter months.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Nicosia. A taxi ride from a central location like Eleftheria Square to the Leventis Municipal Museum should cost approximately €5-€8, depending on traffic. Be sure the driver uses the meter or negotiate the fare beforehand.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate towards the old city and look for parking near Eleftheria Square or D'Avila Parking, which is a short walk from the museum. Parking fees in this area typically range from €1-€2 per hour. Be aware that traffic within the old city can be congested, especially during peak hours.

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Discover more about The Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia

The Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia stands as a testament to the enduring history and cultural richness of Cyprus's capital city. Established in 1989 by the Anastasios G. Leventis Foundation, the museum is located in the heart of the old city within the Venetian walls, not far from Eleftheria Square. It occupies a complex of three meticulously restored historic buildings, creating a welcoming space for visitors to explore the city's past. The museum's mission is to present the history of Nicosia from its earliest beginnings to the present day. Its extensive collection comprises over 10,000 objects, including archaeological artifacts, costumes, photographs, medieval pottery, maps, engravings, jewels, and furniture. These items offer a comprehensive narrative of Nicosia's social and historical development over the centuries. The permanent exhibition galleries are spread across three floors, guiding visitors through a chronological journey of Nicosia's history. The Nicosia Gallery showcases objects from the ancient city (3900 BC-325 AD), while the Byzantine and Medieval Galleries (325-1489 AD) feature a unique collection of glazed vessels and artifacts from the period when Nicosia was the capital of the Medieval Kingdom of Cyprus. The Venetian Period Galleries (1489-1570 AD) display an important collection of medieval and modern maps of Nicosia. The Ottoman Period Galleries (1570-1878 AD) present the city as seen by travelers during the Ottoman occupation, and the British Period Gallery (1878-1960 AD) explores the social development of the city under British rule. The exhibition concludes with the Republic of Cyprus and Nicosia today, offering insights into the city's recent history. In addition to its permanent exhibitions, the Leventis Municipal Museum hosts temporary exhibitions, lectures, educational programs, and other events throughout the year. These events delve deeper into specific aspects of Cypriot history and culture, providing visitors with new perspectives and experiences. The museum also houses two private collections of Cypriot and medieval antiquities: the Leto and Costakis Severis Collection and the Chris Phylactou Collection. The museum's archives include an extensive photographic collection related to the city and its inhabitants. The Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia is not only a repository of historical artifacts but also a center for cultural engagement and education. The museum organizes a variety of activities and events to attract people of all ages and backgrounds. These include guided tours, lectures, talks, evening events, and educational activities, all designed to connect with the museum's collections and shed light on the history and social development of Nicosia. The museum's commitment to preserving and promoting Nicosia's history has been widely recognized. In 1991, just two years after it opened its doors, the Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia was awarded the European Museum of the Year Award. Today, it is recognized as one of the leading history museums in Europe and beyond. Visitors to the Leventis Municipal Museum can explore the museum shop, which offers a selection of publications and memorabilia related to Nicosia's history and culture. The profits from the shop go towards enriching the museum's collections. The Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia is located in the Laiki Geitonia area, a charming neighborhood with traditional architecture and narrow streets. The museum is easily accessible from Eleftheria Square, the city's central square. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and admission is free, operating on a system of voluntary donations. The museum provides facilities for visitors with disabilities. Currently, the Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia is hosting a groundbreaking exhibition titled “Sector 2: Nicosia” until October 31, 2025, exploring the six-decade history of the Green Line that divides Europe's last split capital. The exhibition combines historical documents, artworks, oral histories, and artistic installations. A visit to the Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia is an enriching experience that offers a deeper understanding of the city's past and its people. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply curious about Nicosia, the Leventis Museum is a must-see destination.

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