Nicosia has been occupied by many groups throughout the years and it is still considered as The Island of Cyprus’s most ethnically diverse city.
Nicosia was settled in around 1500 BC by Myceneans, Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans. Nicosia became a part of the Roman Empire in 58BC when Cyprus was annexed to Rome. Nicosia served as an important cultural center during its 2000 year history which includes the Byzantine period (330-1190AD); Venetian rule 1190-1571AD); Ottoman Period (1571 ad–1878ad) and the British rule (1878 – 1960). The city has been ruined by conquest, fires, and earthquakes over its history.
Nicosia became the capital of Cyprus during the Byzantine Empire because of its location. Being away from the coast which was often raided, Nicosia’s location offered physical protection. It remained so until today.
As a result of the many conquerors who have passed through, the city of Nicosia and the surrounding area has an amazing diversity of historical monuments.
The city is now home to the Presidents of The Republic of Cyprus and The Greek Cypriot Administration. During the Turkish invasion in 1974, part of the city was captured by the Turkish troops, and the city was split into two parts, as a result of the war. Nicosia is now the last divided capital in Europe.