Famagusta Gate, Nicosia

The Famagusta Gate is part of Nicosia's medieval walls and is Nicosia's main city gate. The gate was originally called Giulio Gate to honor Giulio Savorgnano, who designed the Venetian walls. The gate was built in 1567.

The Famagusta Gate features a vaulted passage with a domed room. The room has natural light from a circular opening. The passage has rooms that originally housed guards.

The Ottomans restored the gate in 1821. During the Ottoman period, only Turks could remain on horseback while passing through the gate. Foreigners and Christians had to walk. The gate was again restored in 1980. During this restoration, the floor was covered with cement, and cobblestones were added to the area in front of the gate. In addition, air conditioning and lighting were added.

Today, the gate room hosts an art center that features exhibitions, movies, theater performances, and concerts. It is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, and Saturday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.