Omeriye Mosque travel guide

Omeriye Mosque, a key historical and religious landmark in Nicosia, traces its origins to the 14th century. Originally serving as the Augustinian Church of St. Mary, the building underwent significant transformation following the Ottoman conquest of Cyprus in 1571. It was converted into a mosque by Lala Mustafa Pasha, who honored the memory of one of Prophet Muhammad's companions, Omer, believed to have visited the site.

This ecclesiastical structure showcases a blend of Gothic and Ottoman architectural styles, featuring a distinct minaret and intricate stone carvings. The mosque, located in the heart of the old town, has been meticulously preserved and restored over centuries, reflecting the region's rich tapestry of cultural and religious influences.

Visitors are entranced by its serene interior, beautiful stained glass windows, and the tranquil courtyard. Omeriye Mosque remains a significant site for both worshippers and tourists, offering a unique glimpse into Cyprus's diverse historical heritage. When planning your visit to Nicosia, a stop at the Omeriye Mosque is essential for an enriching cultural experience.

One of the most unique features of Omeriye Mosque is its blend of architectural styles, a testament to its rich history. Originally built as a 14th-century Augustinian church dedicated to St. Mary, it retains many elements of Gothic architecture, including pointed arches and ribbed vaults. The conversion into a mosque in the 16th century introduced Ottoman architectural details, such as the elegant minaret that now rises above the structure.

Another distinctive characteristic is the mosque's interior, which merges Islamic and Gothic elements seamlessly. The mihrab is beautifully decorated, and the prayer hall is adorned with intricate Islamic calligraphy, contrasting yet complementing the Gothic stonework. The peaceful courtyard, featuring a traditional ablution fountain, adds to the serene ambience.

Moreover, the mosque's location within the walled city of Nicosia offers a unique historical context, surrounded by narrow, winding streets that evoke the city's diverse cultural influences. Visitors can also appreciate the mosque's community role, as it actively serves the local Muslim population, making it not just a relic of the past but a living, dynamic place of worship.

Omeriye Mosque in Nicosia, Cyprus, features a unique blend of architectural styles, reflecting its transformation from a 14th-century Augustinian church into a mosque during Ottoman rule. The original Gothic elements can still be seen alongside Ottoman additions, such as the minaret. One intriguing aspect is the mosque's mihrab, which is slightly misaligned with Mecca, a rare characteristic in Islamic architecture. The mosque is named after Caliph Omar, though he never visited Cyprus, symbolizing the spread of Islam. In the courtyard, you'll find an ancient well, believed to have been in use since the building's early days. The surrounding garden, with its citrus and olive trees, offers a serene escape from the bustling city.

Leykosia - Lefkosa is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Leykosia - Lefkosa offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Leykosia - Lefkosa and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Selimiye Camii, Barış Manço Park, Atatürk Myd. , and Bedesten - Old Hagia Nikola Church.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Leykosia - Lefkosa has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Leykosia - Lefkosa, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Cyprus!

The best time to explore Omeriye Mosque in Nicosia, Cyprus, is during the spring and autumn seasons. From March to May and September to November, the weather is comfortably warm, making it ideal for leisurely strolls around the historic site. These periods offer mild temperatures and clear skies, perfect for both indoor and outdoor exploration.

Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can help avoid the midday heat and offer a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends, providing a more serene atmosphere to appreciate the mosque's architecture and history.

For a unique cultural experience, plan your visit to coincide with significant events such as Ramadan. While the mosque remains a place of worship during this time, the surrounding area often features special activities and a vibrant atmosphere, enriching your visit. By considering these factors, travelers can maximize their enjoyment and ensure the best time to explore Omeriye Mosque.

Omeriye Mosque is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Leykosia - Lefkosa, Cyprus. If you're flying in, Larnaca International Airport is approximately 25.2 miles (40.6 km) away from Leykosia - Lefkosa. From there, you can easily reach Omeriye Mosque by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Leykosia - Lefkosa, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Omeriye Mosque, which is located 0.2 miles (0.3 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Omeriye Mosque, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is 59C8+Q68, Platia Tillirias, Nicosia 1015, Cyprus.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Omeriye Mosque!

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Omeriye Mosque and other top attractions in Leykosia - Lefkosa than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Leykosia - Lefkosa include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Omeriye Mosque's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Omeriye Mosque and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Conveniently explore Omeriye Mosque and plenty more captivating attractions in Leykosia - Lefkosa by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the street. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Omeriye Mosque and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Leykosia - Lefkosa has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Omeriye Mosque below.

Aside from Omeriye Mosque, Leykosia - Lefkosa is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the street offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Leykosia - Lefkosa, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Selimiye Camii, Barış Manço Park, and Atatürk Myd.

Selimiye Camii is a bucket-list mosque and top attraction in Leykosia - Lefkosa, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,500 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the street. The exact address of Selimiye Camii is Selimiye Sk, Lefkoşa 99010.

Another appreciated attraction in Leykosia - Lefkosa is Barış Manço Park. Like Selimiye Camii, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the street. With an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars among 570 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is 59X6+HM8, Bolu Yolu Sk 73, Lefkoşa 99010.

Atatürk Myd. Is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Leykosia - Lefkosa. This establishment and top attraction in Leykosia - Lefkosa has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 230 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of 59H6+892, Girne Cd, Lefkoşa 9901.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the street of Leykosia - Lefkosa below.