Selimiye Mosque
Lefkosia [Lefkoşa]
Selimiye Mosque, located in North Nicosia, Cyprus, is a remarkable historical monument originally constructed as the Cathedral of Saint Sophia. It stands as the largest and oldest surviving Gothic church on the island, with interior dimensions of approximately 66 by 21 meters. The building was likely erected on the site of an earlier Byzantine church dedicated to the Holy Wisdom, reflecting a deep religious heritage. Construction began in the early 13th century, with significant progress under Archbishop Eustorge de Montaigu by 1228, and the cathedral was consecrated in 1326. It served as the coronation church for the Lusignan kings of Cyprus, Jerusalem, and Armenia, marking its political and cultural importance. The cathedral endured damage from earthquakes in 1267 and 1303, as well as during Genoese raids in the 14th century, but was restored and adorned with frescoes, sculptures, and marble screens. Following the Ottoman conquest of Cyprus, the cathedral was converted into a mosque, now known as Selimiye Mosque, and remains the largest historical building in Nicosia, accommodating up to 2,500 worshipers. Its unique blend of Gothic architecture and Islamic function makes it a standout landmark symbolizing Cyprus's layered history and cultural transitions.
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Consejo: Visitors should aim to visit Selimiye Mosque in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday crowds and the heat. Advance tickets or guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate the site's rich history and architectural details. Modest dress is required due to its religious function. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Check the official website or local tourist offices for current visiting hours and any restoration-related access restrictions.
Datos interesantes
- •Selimiye Mosque was originally the Cathedral of Saint Sophia, the largest Gothic church in Cyprus.
- •It served as the coronation church for the Lusignan kings of Cyprus, Jerusalem, and Armenia.
- •The building may have been the largest church constructed in the Eastern Mediterranean between the rise of Islam and the late Ottoman period.
- •Earthquakes in 1267 and 1303 caused significant damage, delaying construction and prompting restorations.
- •The cathedral housed the Trials of the Knights Templar in 1310.
Historia
The site originally hosted a Byzantine church dedicated to Holy Wisdom, referenced in an 11th-century manuscript.
Construction of the Gothic cathedral began around 1209 under Latin Archbishop Thierry or Albert, with major building phases continuing through the 13th and early 14th centuries.
The cathedral was consecrated in 1326 and served as the coronation church for Lusignan kings.
It suffered earthquake damage in 1267 and 1303 and was further impacted during Genoese raids in 1373.
After the Ottoman conquest, the cathedral was converted into a mosque, which it remains today, preserving both Gothic and Islamic architectural elements.
Guía del lugar
Nave and Aisles13th-14th century
The nave is the central part of the cathedral, completed under Archbishop Giovanni del Conte by 1319, featuring Gothic arches and buttresses that exemplify medieval architecture.
Western Façade and Portico1350s
Constructed and embellished in the mid-14th century, the western façade features three gates adorned with reliefs of kings, prophets, apostles, and bishops, highlighting the building's religious and royal significance.
Frescoes and SculpturesEarly 14th century
The cathedral interior was richly decorated with frescoes, sculptures, and marble screens initiated by Archbishop Giovanni del Conte, reflecting the artistic styles of the Lusignan period.
Conversion to Mosque16th century
After the Ottoman conquest of Cyprus, the cathedral was converted into Selimiye Mosque, preserving much of the Gothic structure while adapting it for Islamic worship.