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Ledra Palace Crossing Point: A Passage Through History

Walk between two worlds at the Ledra Palace Crossing Point, a historic Nicosia checkpoint offering a glimpse into Cyprus's divided past and hopeful future.

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The Ledra Palace Crossing Point is a pedestrian border crossing in Nicosia, Cyprus, linking the southern Republic of Cyprus with the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. More than just a checkpoint, it's a poignant reminder of the island's divided past and a symbol of hope for future reconciliation.

A brief summary to Ledra Palace Crossing Point

  • İkinci Selim Cd 37h, Nicosia, Köşklüçiftlik, CY

Local tips

  • Have your passport or EU ID ready for inspection at both crossing points.
  • Visit during daylight hours to experience the vibrant atmosphere and local markets.
  • Engage with locals on both sides to gain insights into their experiences and perspectives on the island's history.
  • Be prepared for an emotional experience as you walk through the UN buffer zone.
  • Check visa requirements if crossing from north to south, as these are effectively two different countries.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Eleftheria Square in central Nicosia, walk west along Ledra Street. Continue through the pedestrian zone until you reach the border crossing. The crossing is clearly marked with signs for passport control. After passing through both checkpoints, you will enter the northern side of Nicosia. There are no costs associated with crossing the border on foot.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses operate in Nicosia, with routes to areas near the crossing. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. From a bus stop in Köşklüçiftlik, it is a short walk to the Ledra Palace Crossing Point. A single bus fare within Nicosia typically costs around €2.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Nicosia. A taxi from a central location in Nicosia, such as Eleftheria Square, to the Ledra Palace Crossing Point will cost approximately €6-€8. Ensure the taxi driver knows you wish to go to the Ledra Palace Crossing Point, as there are other crossing points in Nicosia.

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Discover more about Ledra Palace Crossing Point

The Ledra Palace Crossing Point, located just outside the Venetian walls of old Nicosia, offers a unique opportunity to experience the complex history of Cyprus. This pedestrian-only crossing connects the Greek Cypriot-controlled south with the Turkish Cypriot-controlled north, allowing visitors to traverse the Green Line, the UN buffer zone that has separated the island since 1974. Before the division of Cyprus, the Ledra Palace Hotel, adjacent to the crossing, was one of the island's most glamorous hotels, designed by German Jewish architect Benjamin Günsberg. Following the Turkish invasion, the hotel fell within the UN buffer zone and served as the headquarters for Sector 2 of UNFICYP until 2017. The crossing itself became a primary route between the two parts of the island, though initially restricted to officials and UN personnel. Today, crossing the Ledra Palace checkpoint offers a fascinating glimpse into a divided city. As you walk through the neutral zone, you'll encounter a palpable sense of history and the ongoing efforts toward peace. On either side, immigration points require a passport or EU ID card. Once across, you'll find yourself immersed in distinct cultures, with Turkish architecture and cuisine to the north. The Ledra Palace Crossing Point stands as a testament to Cyprus's past and a symbol of its potential future.

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