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

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Discover Nicosia from above: History, culture, and panoramic views await at the Shacolas Tower Museum and Observatory.

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Shacolas Tower Museum and Observatory

Ascend the Shacolas Tower for panoramic views of Nicosia, a city divided, and delve into its history through informative exhibits. A unique vantage point blending culture and observation.

A brief summary to Shacolas Tower Museum and Observatory

59C6+MM3, Nicosia, CY
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Monday 10 am-6 pm
Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
Thursday 10 am-6 pm
Friday 10 am-6 pm
Saturday 10 am-6 pm
Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

Visit during the day to fully appreciate the cityscape from the observatory.
Bring cash for the €2.50 entry fee.
Utilize the provided telescopes and binoculars for closer views of landmarks.
Allow ample time to explore both the museum exhibits and enjoy the panoramic views.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Archangel Michael Trypiotis Church

Discover the Serenity of Archangel Michael Trypiotis Church

The Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia

Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia: A Journey Through Time

Nicosia Old City

Nicosia Old City: A Journey Through Time

Getting There

Walking

The Shacolas Tower is located in the old town of Nicosia, a short walk from Ledra Street. From Eleftheria Square, walk east along Ledra Street. The tower will be on your right. Look for the H&M department store, as the tower is located above it. Enter the building and take the elevator to the 11th floor.
Public Transport

Nicosia is served by OSEL city buses. Several bus routes stop near Eleftheria Square, a short walk from the Shacolas Tower. From the bus stop, walk east along Ledra Street. The tower will be on your right. A single journey on an OSEL bus costs €1.50.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Nicosia. Ask your driver to take you to the Shacolas Tower in the old town, near Ledra Street. Expect to pay around €5-€10 for a short taxi ride within the city center. Ensure the taxi meter is used.
Driving

If driving, navigate to the city center and look for parking options near Ledra Street or Eleftheria Square. Be aware that parking can be limited, and fees typically range from €1 to €2 per hour. After parking, it's a short walk to the Shacolas Tower Museum and Observatory.

Discover more about Shacolas Tower Museum and Observatory

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.