Selimiye Mosque: a practical note for Lefkoşa

Gothic masterpiece converted from Lusignan cathedral to mosque. Twin minarets and rose window: the skyline icon of old Nicosia.

Selimiye Mosque, in the heart of the walled old city of Nicosia, is the island's most striking Gothic building. Originally built as the Cathedral of St. Sophia (Ayasofya) in the 13th, 14th centuries under the Lusignans, it hosted the coronations of Lusignan kings. Following the Ottoman conquest in 1570 it was converted into a mosque and two minarets were added.

With soaring vaults, pointed arches and a great rose window, the interior has the airy scale of a European cathedral; combined with the plain layout of a mosque, it creates a striking contrast. Its twin minarets are an icon of the Nicosia skyline.

Visits are outside prayer times; modest dress and a cover are required. The adjacent Büyük Han and the historic Bandabuliya market are natural stops that complete a walk through the old city.

What to see

• A mosque converted from a Gothic cathedral
• Soaring vaults and rose window
• Twin minarets, icon of the skyline
• Nearby Büyük Han and Bandabuliya

How to get there

In Lefkoşa, Selimiye Mosque is easiest with car hire or a short taxi. Map and hours: Selimiye Mosque.

Small notes

• Dress modestly; bring a cover.
• Büyük Han and Bandabulya are nearby.
• Parking is hard in the walled city.

Dinner: restaurants. Other stops: Cyprus guide. A place to stay: housing.