Shacolas Tower: Nicosia's Window to the Past and Present

The Shacolas Tower Museum and Observatory, also known as the Ledras Tower, offers a unique perspective on Nicosia, Cyprus. Completed in 1959, it was initially named Manglis Tower and housed the offices of General Engineering and Hellenic Mining Company. For nearly two decades, it stood as the tallest building in Cyprus, marking its significance in the island's architectural landscape. Today, the Shacolas Tower blends commercial and cultural experiences. The first five floors are occupied by H&M department stores, while the 11th floor houses the museum and observatory. The museum is a collaborative effort with the Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia, showcasing photographs, narratives, and historical information about the city's evolution. Visitors can also listen to a multilingual taped history to learn about Nicosia's past. The highlight is the observatory, offering panoramic views of Nicosia and its surroundings. Telescopes and binoculars are available for closer inspection of landmarks and distant landscapes. The view extends across the mountains and the rest of the island. It's a particularly great place to view the Turkish-occupied Northern Cyprus.