Venetian Column: A Timeless Nicosia Landmark

Standing proudly in the heart of North Nicosia's Atatürk Square (also known as Sarayönü), the Venetian Column is a striking monument that has witnessed centuries of shifting powers and cultural influences. Despite its name, the column's history extends beyond the Venetian period. The grey granite column was originally part of the Temple of Zeus in Salamis and was moved to Nicosia in 1489 by the Venetians as a tribute to their rule over Cyprus.Initially, the column was erected in front of the Lusignan Palace, then the residence of Venetian governors. The Venetians topped the column with the Lion of St. Mark and adorned its base with the coats of arms of six noble Venetian families to symbolize their dominance. However, in 1570, the Ottomans conquered Cyprus, removing the lion and toppling the column. It remained in the courtyard of the Sarayönü Mosque for centuries.In 1915, during British rule, the column was re-erected. The British replaced the lost Lion of St. Mark with a bronze orb and inscribed the dates of its demolition (1550) and re-erection (1915) on the pedestal. Today, the Venetian Column stands as a symbol of Nicosia's diverse history and cultural blend, surrounded by remnants of Ottoman and British periods, including a fountain and a platform used for Queen Elizabeth's coronation in 1953.