Archbishop’s Palace, Nicosia : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Are you looking to travel to Nicosia and take in its rich history? Check out the Archbishop’s Palace, the grand and beautiful building located in the heart of the old city. This majestic structure was originally constructed in the 16th century and served as the residence of the Archbishop of Cyprus. It is one of the most iconic attractions in Nicosia and a popular destination for travelers from around the world. This guide offers interesting information on the history of the Archbishop’s Palace, its many interesting features, and travel advice for visiting this remarkable structure. So, take a deeper look at the Archbishop’s Palace, what it has to offer, and plan a visit today.

Interesting Facts About Archbishop’s Palace, Nicosia

1. The Archbishop’s Palace in Nicosia was built in the 15th century and is one of the oldest castles in Cyprus.

2. The palace once served as a venue for coronations, meetings of royalty and an escape from invaders.

3. It was built in Gothic style, a popular architectural style of the period.

4. During the 16th century, it was renovated and extended several times.

5. Today, the palace is the official residence of the Greek Orthodox Archbishop of Cyprus and used for meetings and celebrations.

6. The palace is open to the public and visitors can take a tour of the historic building, learning about its rich history.

7. Between 1895 and 1908, several films were shot at the palace, including the first Cypriot films (Today the Almond Blossoms, 1906).

8. Inside the palace, there is a collection of artifacts from byzantine and post-byzantine times.

9. These artifacts include books, manuscripts, furniture, jewelry, carpets and portraits.

10. There is a small chapel inside the palace dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which is still used for religious services.

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History & Information About Archbishop’s Palace, Nicosia

The Archbishop’s Palace in Nicosia is the official residence of the Archbishop of the Church of Cyprus. The building is located on the pedestrian street Onasagorou, south-west of the city’s centre. Archbishop’s Palace has been the seat of the Archbishops since the late 19th century.

The building was built in the 1920s in the neoclassical style with the purpose to serve as the residence of Archbishop Nikiforos. The facade of the palace is made of limestone, which is typical for this architectural style. The palace is three storey high and the terrace is adorned with griffins, which are the symbols of Cyprus.

The interior of the building is decorated with old icons from the Greek Orthodox Church. There is a beautiful library located in the building, where a few precious books and manuscripts are kept.

The building also includes a chapel which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. In front of the chapel there are various sculptures and stone carvings.

The Archbishop’s Palace has been witness to many important events in the history of the Church of Cyprus. It is still the honorary seat of the Archbishop and continues to serve as the main office of the Church.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Archbishop’s Palace, Nicosia

1. Getting There:

– By Plane: The closest airport is Larnaca International Airport, which is located about 25 km from Nicosia. Taxi and car rental services are available from the airport.

– By Bus: The Nicosia public transport system is inexpensive and efficient. There are several routes to Archbishop’s Palace, all of which can be found online.

2. What to See:

-The Archbishop’s Palace: This 15th century palace is the official residence of the Archbishop of Cyprus. It is a beautiful example of Byzantine architecture and is home to several important pieces of religious art and artifacts.

-Cathedral of St. Sophia: Located next to the Archbishop’s Palace, this impressive cathedral was built in the 14th century and is home to important religious relics, such as the Shroud of Turin.

-Bellapais Monastery: This 13th century Gothic Abbey is a popular tourist destination, located just outside of Nicosia. It is home to a beautiful garden and chapel, as well as a cafe and craft shop.

3. Where to Eat:

-El Greco Greek Taverna: This quaint taverna serves authentic Greek cuisine, including Greek salads, moussaka, and succulent pastichio. Enjoy a meal or a glass of ouzo on the terrace, while marveling at the views of Nicosia.

-The Lime Tree: Dive into a world of local flavors at this popular restaurant. The menu features an array of Cypriot dishes, such as souvlaki and meze. The atmosphere is cozy and rustic, and the balcony offers a stunning view of the city.

-Cafe Markides: This award-winning cafe is a great spot to grab a bite to eat after exploring the city. It serves a variety of light dishes and desserts, as well as fresh fruit juices and coffee.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Archbishop’s Palace, Nicosia

Q: Where is the Archbishop’s Palace located in Nicosia?
A: The Archbishop’s Palace is located in the old city of Nicosia at the end of Ledra Street.

Q: When was the Archbishop’s Palace built?
A: The Archbishop’s Palace was constructed in the rising Venetian period of the late 16th century, and completed shortly before the early 17th century.

Q: What is the architectural style of the Archbishop’s Palace?
A: The Archbishop’s Palace is of an Italian Renaissance style, with a combination of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque features.

Q: What are some of the features of the Archbishop’s Palace?
A: Some features of the Archbishop’s Palace include its pillared courtyard, two-story arcades, high towers, and loggia, as well as high ceilings and elaborate rock arches.

Q: What is the significance of the Archbishop’s Palace?
A: The Archbishop’s Palace is a prominent landmark of Nicosia, and is a symbol of the power wielded by the Greek Orthodox Church over the city. It is also one of the best-preserved buildings of its era in Nicosia.

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