Lefkosia, the capital of Cyprus, and also the last divided capital of Europe, is home to lavishly decorated churches and the island?s foremost museums. Among them are the Cyprus Archaeological Museum, the Ethnographic Museum , the Byzantine Museum, the Museum of the National Struggle, the State Gallery of Contemporary Art, and the House of Chatzigeorgakis Kornesios. The old walled city of Lefkosia is unique and definitely the place to head for first. Encircled by strong fortress walls built by the Venetians in the 16th century, the enchanting old city is scattered with buildings and monuments of historical interest as well as shops, cafes and tavernas. Its pedestrian section, "Laiki Geitonia", has been carefully renovated to evoke the atmoshphere of past days. In the countryside you?ll find ruins of the ancient city kingdoms of Idalion and Tamasos near the villages of Dali and Politiko respectively. One may also visit the Fikardou village which has been declared as a monument and was awarded the Europa Nostra award in 1987. |