Nicosia is the last divided capital in Europe, separated by the Green Line, a buffer zone controlled by the UN.
The Green Line is a demilitarized zone under UN control, established in 1964 but made permanent in 1974.
The division was caused by a nationalist coup supported by Greece, to which Turkey responded by militarily invading the north of the island.
After Cyprus’s independence from the United Kingdom in 1960, coexistence between the Greek Cypriot majority and the Turkish Cypriot minority was immediately unstable.
In 1964, due to violent ethnic clashes, a British general drew a ceasefire line on a map with a green pencil, which divided the city.
On 5th July 1974, a military coup aimed at annexing Cyprus to Greece prompted Turkey to invade the north of the island to protect the Turkish Cypriot minority.
The city is divided into two distinct areas.
South Nicosia (Lefkosia): capital of the Republic of Cyprus, culturally linked to Greece and part of the European Union, with the euro as its currency.
The southern area is full of trendy shops and museums (the main one is the Cyprus Archaeological Museum).
North Nicosia (Lefkoşa): capital of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (recognized only by Turkey), under Turkish Cypriot administration, with the Turkish lira as its currency.
The northern area retains a more oriental charm with bazaars and mosques (the main one is Selimiye Mosque).
The borders can now be crossed through several pedestrian crossings, such as the one on Ledra Street, upon presentation of a valid ID.
Thanks for reminding me of what I learned in school!
Thank you very much for this comment!