Prof mentioned that there was a unique structure in the occupied territory in the north. This structure was once a catholic cathedral known as Saint Sophia’s Cathedral. But now it is known as Selimiye Mosque in Nicosia. When I heard about it, it sounded like an interesting building to see.
NOTE: Now crossing the border (aka buffer zone), you should carry your passports with you. Plenty of expats cross over to shop and cross back, but just be aware you may be asked why you were traveling across.
Outer View of Selimiye Mosque/St. Sophia’s Cathedral
Prof mentioned that we could go into an old church (St. Sophia Cathedral) turned into mosque (Selimiye Mosque). Originally, the church was designed with a north and south orientation. But because Muslims pray toward Mecca, the interior of the space is orientated in an east and west direction.
Here is the washing station before you enter.
You must take your shoes off before you enter.
Inside View of Selimiye Mosque/St. Sophia’s Cathedral
Then you can walk in the vast open space. The carpet design is even orientated toward Mecca. So right off the bat, your eyes are confused looking towards the other end of the mosque, but your body wants to lean toward the dikka (a free-standing platform) and carpet on the east side.
Cyprus Delights
We walked to a nearby covered market and saw a store that makes fresh Turkish Delights. (Cross back through the buffer zone, and the Cypriots call it Cyprus Delights.) We picked up a mixed box of several sweets.
They had every flavor imaginable: strawberry, almond, pistachio, rose, mint, mango. The flavors seemed endless. Oh, and the texture reminded me of mochi or dduk used in Korean patbingsu (ice cream/ice-ee dessert with sweet red beans and fruit).
The kids enjoyed every single bite. It’s better than any fruit snack in the States. Hands down.
For More Information
Address: Selimiye Sk, Lefkoşa; 59G7+HQ Nicosia, Cyprus
Website: http://www.evkaf.org/site/sayfa.aspx?pkey=223
