Nicosia – Cyprus

Nicosia, divided between the Turks and the Greeks…last divided city in the EU. Arriving into Nicosia we notice a huge Turkish Flag made of stone on the mountainside facing the Greek side. Hummm!!

Presidential Palace

Our first stop was at the Palace of the Emperor of Cyprus, who was once the Archbishop. This is where the coup began and fighting broke out in the 1960’s. It was interesting to see an old Cadillac on display, received as a gift from President JFK .

The Battle

The battle began in 1974. On both sides there were thousands of casualties and many missing. The UN set up a buffer Zone in Nicosia. Turkey created a demarcation line through the middle of Nicosia. Still a lot if uneasiness between the Greeks Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriots.

Demarcation Line

A mile walk through the Pedestrian Mall to the Demarcation Line. Lots of shops along the way and graffiti saying Peace and Stop the War. We show our passports to the Greek Border Control, walk across the buffer zone and enter through the Turkish Border Control to the OCCUPIED ZONE. Didn’t feel dangerous but we could sense the hatred of one side against the other.

FORBIDDEN ZONE

We were not permitted to take a photo of the border ..but we did.

Border Between Turkey and Cyprus.

Shacolas Tower Museum and Observatory

Beautiful view of the whole area of Nicosia below .

14 Comments

  1. Thank you for sharing a part of your adventures!!.. it is sad that elements of closed minded societies have such an impact on the wonders of this ole third rock from the sun!!… 🙂

    Until we meet again..
    May the sun shine all day long
    Everything go right, nothing go wrong
    May those you love bring love back to you
    May all the wishes you wish come true
    May peace be within you
    May your heart be strong
    May you find whatever you’re seeking
    Wherever you may roam
                      (Irish Saying)

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  2. I’ve not been to Cyprus, but the country has intrigued me recently, especially having traveled to its neighboring countries of Greece and Turkey. It’s fascinating that Cyprus has a blend of both countries’ cultures, and I look forward to seeing where else you go in this country!

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