Discover the Mosques and Churches of North Cyprus

John Nordmann
7 days ago
3 min read

Mosques

Northern Cyprus boasts a rich tapestry of Islamic architecture, with many mosques reflecting the island's diverse cultural and religious history. Several prominent mosques, originally built as Christian cathedrals during the Lusignan and Gothic periods, were later converted into mosques under Ottoman rule. Here are some notable examples:

🕌 Selimiye Mosque (Lefkoşa/Nicosia)

Originally constructed as the Cathedral of Saint Sophia in the 13th century, this Gothic masterpiece was converted into the Selimiye Mosque following the Ottoman conquest in 1570. It stands as the largest surviving historical building in Nicosia and serves as a prominent example of Gothic architecture adapted for Islamic worship. The mosque can accommodate up to 2,500 worshippers and features twin minarets added during its conversion.

🕌 Haydar Pasha Mosque (Lefkoşa/Nicosia)

Built in the 14th century as the Church of St. Catherine by the Lusignans, this edifice was later transformed into the Haydar Pasha Mosque during the Ottoman era. Renowned for its elegant Gothic architecture, it has been described as one of the finest examples of Gothic buildings on the island. Today, it serves as an art gallery, blending its historical significance with contemporary cultural use.

🕌 Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque (Gazimağusa/Famagusta)

Originally the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, consecrated in 1328, this structure is the largest medieval building in Famagusta. Patterned after Reims Cathedral, it was the coronation site for the Lusignan kings of Cyprus. Following the Ottoman conquest in 1571, it was converted into the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, named after the Ottoman commander who led the conquest. The mosque retains its impressive Gothic façade and is a testament to the island's layered history.

These mosques not only serve as places of worship but also as enduring symbols of Cyprus's complex history, where different cultures and religions have intersected over the centuries. Visitors to Northern Cyprus can explore these architectural gems to gain insight into the island's rich and diverse heritage.

Churches

Northern Cyprus is home to a rich tapestry of historic churches and monasteries, reflecting its diverse religious and cultural heritage. Many of these sites, dating back to the Byzantine, Crusader, and Lusignan periods, are open to visitors and offer insights into the island's storied past. Here's a guide to some notable churches and monasteries you might consider visiting:

🏰 Kyrenia (Girne) Region

Bellapais Abbey: Located near Kyrenia, this 13th-century monastery, also known as the Abbey of Peace, showcases stunning Gothic architecture. Originally built by Canons Regular who fled Jerusalem, it offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and hosts cultural events in its refectory.
Antiphonitis Monastery: Nestled in the Kyrenia mountains, this monastery is renowned for its unique domed structure and 12th-century frescoes. It's one of the few surviving examples of its kind in Cyprus.
Chrysopolitissa Church: Dating back to the 1500s, this small, roofless ruin is Kyrenia's oldest church. Visitors can admire its intricately carved wooden elements.

🏛️ Famagusta Region

St. George of the Greeks Church: This medieval church is notable for being the only one in Famagusta that still has a bell. Despite some damage, it remains one of the best-preserved churches from the period.
Twin Churches: Comprising the Templars Church of St. John and the Hospitallers Church of St. John, these 13th-century edifices were built side by side by two Crusader orders. They offer a glimpse into the island's medieval history.
St. Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum: Dedicated to one of the founders of the independent Greek Orthodox Church, this monastery houses a collection of icons and archaeological artifacts.

🌄 Karpas Peninsula

Apostolos Andreas Monastery: Situated near Cape Apostolos Andreas, this monastery is dedicated to Saint Andrew. It's a significant pilgrimage site for both Greek and Turkish Cypriots and has undergone recent restoration efforts.
Church of the Holy Trinity, Dipkarpaz: Located in the village of Dipkarpaz, this church holds special significance for the Greek Orthodox community and is a site of pilgrimage.

🕍 Güzelyurt (Morphou) Region

St. Mamas Church and Icon Museum: Dedicated to Saint Mamas, the patron saint of tax evaders, this church is built over a former pagan temple and houses a collection of religious icons.

🕊️ Nicosia (Lefkoşa) Region

Armenian Church & Nunnery: Originally established in the 13th century as the Abbey of Our Lady of Tyre, this site reflects the Armenian Apostolic heritage in the region.

These sites offer a window into the rich religious and cultural history of Northern Cyprus. When planning visits, it's advisable to check the current opening hours and any visitor requirements.