Lefkoşa Tarihi Kent Dokusunda “Selimiye Meydanı” / “Selimiye Square” Within the Historical City Texture of Nicosia

Selimiye Square, located within the walled city of Nicosia, Cyprus, stands as a significant historical and cultural center shaped by the architectural heritage of multiple civilizations. The square's evolution began in the 13th century with the construction of St. Sophia Cathedral during the Lusignan Period, evolving into a religious hub with the addition of St. Nicholas Church and the Archbishopric. Subsequent periods, including the Venetian, Ottoman, British, and modern Cyprus Turkish Administration, contributed distinct architectural styles and functions, such as the transformation of St. Sophia into a mosque with minarets, the establishment of educational institutions like Sultan Mahmut Library and medreses, and the preservation of its social and commercial identity. A 2001 pedestrianization project revitalized Selimiye Square, transforming it into a vibrant center for tourism, social activities, and cultural engagement, including a mosque, cultural center, museum, and restaurants, while retaining its historical texture.

Turkan, Z., & Özburak, Ç. (2018). Lefkoşa Tarihi Kent Dokusunda “Selimiye Meydanı” / “Selimiye Square” Within the Historical City Texture of Nicosia. Journal of History Culture and Art Research, 7(2), 430. https://doi.org/10.7596/taksad.v7i2.1486