The capital city dates back around 2500 years, originally named Ledra in around 7BC, the city has inherited greatly from many influences including the Lusignans, Egyptians, Persians, Venetians, Romans, Ottomans and the British. The city became divided in 1963 and has since been administered separately by Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots. The Venetians destroyed churches and monuments built by their predecessors the Lusignans and used the stonework to fortify the city by means of a wall to protect the inhabitants from the expected Ottoman invasion. Unfortunately the Ottomans defeated the Venetians before they had time to complete construction of their defences.

The city is now the last divided capital city in the world and including the Greek Cypriot section has a population of 150,000. The city enjoys a subtle blend of history and culture.

Lefkosa is full of character, with old buildings, historical sites, markets, shops and restaurants. A lot of the city is undergoing a long-term renovation plan, one such project is the Selimiye Mosque. The mosque stands precisely in the middle of the city and was originally the cathedral of the Lusignan kings and is now the chief mosque of North Cyprus. Built between 1208 and 1326 this was where the Latin kings were crowned. The Ottomans restored the cathedral after raids and earthquakes and adding the minarets transforming it into a Mosque.

Near to the Mosque is the Lefkosa Belediye Pazari an indoor market selling freshly produced fruit and vegetables, nuts and spices and also a wide range of gifts, clothes and locally produced Turkish delight.

The "Eaved house" was built during British rule and now serves as a cultural and art centre after being beautifully renovated. Its quiet, peaceful atmosphere makes it hard to believe you are in the middle of a busy city.

Other places to visit include the "Great Turkish Baths" which are still in use today. Built on the remains of a Lusignan church there is changing rooms and cold and hot water pools.

Another site that has undergone extensive restoration is the "Great Inn" constructed under the orders of the first Ottoman governor in 1572. Visiting merchants and local tradesmen used to stay at the Inn. Reopened to the public in 2002 after years of restoration the stone inn has an inner courtyard with 68 rooms and 10 shops. Live music now fills the courtyard regularly and the Cypriot wine bar attracts locals and tourists alike.

There are many Mosques and churches to visit but if these do not appeal to you there are plenty of shops selling excellent copies of designer label fashions, sunglasses and watches. Gold and silver jewellery is of very good quality and is good value for money. However you choose to spend your time in Nicosia the hardest decision you will have to make is which of the restaurants and bars to dine at! Menus vary from typical Turkish dishes, kebabs and international cuisine with Indian, Chinese, Mexican and Italian restaurants available.