Venetian Column: A Symbol of Nicosia's History

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Discover the Venetian Column in Nicosia, a historical landmark reflecting Cyprus's diverse Venetian, Ottoman, and British past.

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Venetian Column

The Venetian Column in North Nicosia is a historical monument with a complex past. Originally from Salamis, it was brought to Nicosia in 1489 by the Venetians. Topped with the Lion of St. Mark, it symbolized Venetian dominance until the Ottomans toppled it in 1570. Re-erected by the British in 1915, it now stands as a reminder of Nicosia's diverse cultural influences.

A brief summary to Venetian Column

Girne Cd, Nicosia, North Nicosia, CY

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Venetian Column.

Explore the surrounding area for local shops and cafes that reflect Cypriot culture.
Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the column's historical context.
Be mindful of your surroundings, as the area can be busy with both tourists and locals.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Ledra Street crossing point, walk straight into North Nicosia on Girne Avenue (Girne Cd). Continue for approximately 10 minutes. The Venetian Column will be on your left in Ataturk Square. There are no costs associated with this route.
Public Transport

From central Nicosia, take bus number 10 or 27 towards North Nicosia. Get off at the Girne Avenue stop. Walk straight for about 5 minutes along Girne Cd, and you will find the Venetian Column on your left. A single bus fare costs approximately €1-2.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from anywhere in central Nicosia to the Venetian Column will cost approximately €4-12, depending on the distance and traffic. Ensure the driver uses the meter. Tipping taxi drivers in Nicosia is typically 10–15 percent of the total fare.

Discover more about Venetian Column

Located in the heart of North Nicosia at Ataturk Square (Sarayönü), the Venetian Column is a captivating landmark that embodies the city's rich history. Despite its name, the column's origins predate the Venetian era; it was sourced from the ancient city of Salamis and the Temple of Zeus. The Venetians relocated it to Nicosia in 1489 as a tribute to their rule over Cyprus.Initially, the column stood in front of the Lusignan Palace, the residence of Venetian governors. It was topped with the Lion of St. Mark and adorned with the coats of arms of six noble Venetian families to symbolize Venetian authority. However, in 1570, the Ottomans conquered Cyprus, removing the lion and toppling the column. It remained in the Sarayönü Mosque's courtyard for centuries.The British re-erected the column in 1915, during World War I, replacing the Lion of St. Mark with a bronze orb and adding inscriptions commemorating its history. Today, the Venetian Column stands as a symbol of Nicosia's resilience and cultural blend. The surrounding square also features remnants from the Ottoman and British periods, including a fountain and a platform built for Queen Elizabeth's coronation in 1953.