Nicosia History: An Overview of the Long and Varied History of Cyprus' Capital City
Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is a city with a long and varied history. It has been inhabited since the Chalcolithic period, and its strategic location has made it a coveted prize for many different civilizations over the centuries. From the ancient Greeks to the Venetians, Nicosia has seen its fair share of invaders, conquerors, and rulers. In this article, we will take a look at the history of Nicosia, from its earliest days to the present.
The earliest known inhabitants of Nicosia were the Chalcolithic people, who lived in the area around 2000 BCE. They were followed by the Mycenaeans, who arrived around 1200 BCE. These people are believed to have built the first city walls around Nicosia, which were later expanded by the Phoenicians in the 9th century BCE.
In the 4th century BCE, Nicosia was conquered by Alexander the Great, and it became part of the Ptolemaic Empire. Under the Ptolemies, Nicosia flourished and became an important trading center. It was also the site of a famous temple dedicated to Aphrodite.
When the Romans arrived in Cyprus in 58 BCE, they made Nicosia their capital. It was during this period that the city was transformed into a grand metropolis, with impressive public buildings, a large aqueduct, and an amphitheater.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Nicosia was ruled by the Byzantines, who built a number of churches and monasteries in the city. Nicosia was also an important center of learning during this period, and it was home to a number of renowned scholars and theologians.
In 1191, Nicosia was conquered by the Franks, who made it their capital in Cyprus. The city was rebuilt and fortified during this period, and it became an important Christian center. In 1489, the Venetians captured Nicosia and made it their capital. During their rule, Nicosia was transformed into a modern city, with a strong fortification system and impressive public buildings.
In 1570, the Ottoman Empire captured Nicosia and it remained under their rule until 1878. During this period, the city was transformed into a predominantly Muslim city, with mosques and other religious buildings being constructed.
When the British took control of Cyprus in 1878, Nicosia was made the capital of the island. The city was modernized during this period, with new buildings being constructed and the old city walls being restored. In 1960, Cyprus gained independence and Nicosia became the capital of the new nation.
Today, Nicosia is a bustling city, with a vibrant economy and a rich cultural heritage. It is a major tourist destination, and its many historical sites draw visitors from all over the world. Nicosia is also home to a number of international organizations, including the United Nations and the European Union.