Northern Cyprus: Selimiye Mosque

 There are many destinations in Nicosia, the capital of Northern Cyprus, that you can visit as a tourist. One of these points is Selimiye Mosque. Let's explore together...

Selimiye Mosque

The cathedral, built in the 1200s, still retains all its glory. 

A section from inside the mosque

The building, which was severely damaged by an earthquake at the end of the 1400s, was dominated by the Ottomans in the next century and was named the Hagia Sophia Mosque. 

Workmanship is simply amazing

Attracting attention with its Gothic structure and very elegant details, 2500 people can worship in the structure at the same time.


Details from past centuries

Details from hundreds of years ago can be seen in almost every corner of the mosque.

Some more details

At least as much as its general appearance, the details are just as remarkable.


It can be interpreted as a common work of different civilizations


There are many more touristic places around the mosque. It is worth mentioning two more of them.

The Venetian Column
The Venetian Column, 700-750 meters from the mosque, was brought from Salamis and placed where it is now as a symbol of sovereignty.
The Venetian Column

Büyük Han (Great Inn)
Built in the 1500s, the inn is one of the most important buildings of the Ottoman Empire on the island. As a caravanserai, the Great Inn, which is the largest accommodation on the island, is currently used as an arts and crafts center.
Great Inn

Tip: Due to its geographical location, Nicosia is quite hot in the summer and the humidity is low. Therefore, I cannot recommend visiting it on foot in summer. I can say that the best time for Nicosia is May or October. You can reach almost anywhere by walking.

Fountain in the courtyard


Have you read the post where we explained some historical places in Famagusta?
If not, here is the link: Famagusta Walled City
Here you can find two accommodation options from Kyrenia: Best Two Hotels in Kyrenia

The location on the map of the three places we mentioned in the post:

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