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Omeriye Mosque: A Testament to Nicosia's Layered History

Explore Nicosia's Omeriye Mosque: a historic site where a 14th-century church blends seamlessly with Ottoman-Turkish architectural influences.

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The Omeriye Mosque in Nicosia stands as a powerful symbol of the city's diverse past. Originally a 14th-century Augustinian church, it was transformed into a mosque in 1571 following the Ottoman conquest. Today, it serves as a place of worship for Nicosia's Muslim community and welcomes visitors of all faiths.

A brief summary to Omeriye Mosque

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting; women should cover their heads, and everyone should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.
  • Remove your shoes before entering the mosque.
  • Avoid visiting during prayer times to minimize disruption.
  • Take your time to admire the blend of Gothic and Ottoman architectural elements.
  • Explore the surrounding area, including the Omeriye Turkish Baths, to further appreciate the cultural richness of the site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Omeriye Mosque is located in the walled city of Nicosia, near the main Municipal Market. From Ledra Street, a bustling pedestrian thoroughfare, head south. Continue straight until you reach the 'Ohi' roundabout, then continue straight until you find the Omeriye Mosque on your right. The mosque is located on Platia Tillyrias. There is no fee to enter the mosque.

  • Public Transport

    Nicosia is served by OSEL city buses. Several bus routes serve the city center. From the Nicosia bus terminal, you can either walk or take a local bus to Platia Tillirias. If walking, head towards Platia Tillirias, which is about a 15-minute walk from the bus terminal. A single journey on an OSEL bus costs €1.50, while a day pass costs €5.00.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Nicosia. A taxi from the city center to the Omeriye Mosque will be a short ride. Expect to pay around €10-€20 for a daytime taxi within Nicosia. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey, as prices may vary.

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Discover more about Omeriye Mosque

Omeriye Mosque, located in the heart of Nicosia, is a captivating historical site that embodies the city's multifaceted cultural heritage. Originally built in the 14th century as the Augustinian Church of St. Mary, it was one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Nicosia during the Lusignan era. The monastery encompassed six acres of land, featuring gardens, orchards, and even a sugar plantation. During the Ottoman-Venetian War, the church suffered extensive damage during the siege of Nicosia in 1570. In 1571, after the Ottoman conquest, Lala Mustafa Pasha ordered its conversion into a mosque. The Ottomans believed that the Prophet Omar had visited Nicosia and rested on this site during the 7th century. The mosque was named in his honor. The mosque's architecture showcases a blend of Christian and Islamic styles. While the original church was built in the Gothic style, the Ottomans added features like a tall minaret, arches, and small domes, characteristic of Ottoman-Turkish architecture. Inside, visitors can admire the elegant pointed arches and the interplay of simplicity and solemnity, enhanced by chandeliers. The mosque also features a garden, offering a tranquil retreat. Today, the Omeriye Mosque serves as an active place of worship for Nicosia's diverse Muslim population, including Arab and Asian communities. Non-Muslims are welcome to visit, provided they dress modestly, remove their shoes before entering, and avoid prayer times. The mosque stands as a testament to Nicosia's rich and complex history, representing a meeting point of cultures and religions.

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