Bedesten - Old Hagia Nikola Church
Discover the Historic Charm of Bedesten - Old Hagia Nikola Church
Selimiye Mosque: A Testament to Nicosia's History
Explore Nicosia's iconic Selimiye Mosque, a captivating blend of Gothic and Ottoman architecture, embodying centuries of Cypriot history.
The Selimiye Mosque in Nicosia, originally the Cathedral of Saint Sophia, showcases a captivating blend of Gothic and Ottoman architecture, reflecting Cyprus's diverse cultural past. Converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest in 1570, it remains a significant landmark and active place of worship.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Selimiye Camii
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Selimiye Sk, Nicosia, North Nicosia, 99010, CY
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Getting There
Walking
From Kyrenia Gate, walk south along Girne Caddesi (Kyrenia Street). Continue straight, passing the Büyük Han on your left. Turn right onto Selimiye Square. The Selimiye Mosque will be directly in front of you. The walk is approximately 10 minutes and is easily navigable with landmarks.
Public Transport
Take a bus to a stop near Kyrenia Gate. From there, it's less than a kilometer walk to the mosque. Look for routes that stop at 'Selimiye Sk' or 'Kıbrıs Şehitleri Avenue'. Once you get off, walk along Selimiye Sk; the mosque is located a short distance from the bus stop. A single bus fare costs approximately ₺10-₺15.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis are readily available throughout Nicosia. A short taxi ride from Kyrenia Gate or a central location in North Nicosia to the Selimiye Mosque will typically cost around ₺50-₺70. Ensure the driver uses a meter or negotiate the fare beforehand.
Driving
If driving, head towards the city center and follow signs for 'Kıbrıs Şehitleri Avenue'. Turn onto Selimiye Street (Selimiye Sk). Limited street parking is available near the mosque, but it can be challenging to find during peak hours. Parking near the Bandabulya Market is an option.
Local tips
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Dress modestly when visiting the mosque, covering shoulders and knees out of respect for its religious significance.
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Remove your shoes before entering the mosque.
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Avoid visiting during prayer times if you are not a practicing Muslim to minimize disruption.
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Explore the surrounding area, which offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Discover more about Selimiye Camii
The Selimiye Mosque, historically known as the Cathedral of Saint Sophia, stands as the largest and oldest surviving Gothic church in Cyprus. Its transformation into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Nicosia in 1570 is a testament to the island's layered history. The cathedral's construction began in 1208 and was consecrated in 1326, serving as the coronation church for the Kings of Cyprus during the Lusignan rule.The building's architecture is a striking blend of Gothic and Islamic styles. The original Gothic features, such as the stone vaulting and buttresses, are complemented by Ottoman additions like the two minarets, a mihrab, and a minbar. This fusion represents the convergence of cultures and religions throughout Nicosia's history. The mosque can accommodate up to 2,500 worshippers and remains a cornerstone of the local Muslim community.Visitors are welcome to explore the mosque outside of prayer times, offering a glimpse into its rich history and spiritual atmosphere. The surrounding area has been renovated into a lively hub with restaurants, cafes, and shops. Nearby landmarks include the Bedesten, Büyük Han, Haydar Pasha Mosque and Ledra Street.
A brief summary to Selimiye Camii
Use Selimiye Camii as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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