Plizio Visual Lab
Omerye Mosque
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
The Omerye Mosque in Nicosia was originally constructed in the 14th century as the Augustinian monastery church of St. Mary and remains one of the capital's most significant religious landmarks. Following the Ottoman conquest of the island in 1571, Lala Mustafa Pasha ordered the conversion of the building into a mosque, naming it after Caliph Omar, who according to tradition stayed at this site. The building's architecture preserves impressive Gothic elements, such as the pointed arched main portal and massive exterior buttresses, which reflect the medieval craftsmanship of the Lusignan era. Inside, floor slabs belonging to Frankish nobles are still visible, providing a tangible link to the building's Christian origins. From 2003 to 2004, the structure underwent extensive restoration to preserve its historical fabric and ensure its continued use as an active place of worship for the Muslim community. Today, the mosque stands as a testament to the multi-layered and often turbulent religious history of Cyprus in the heart of the old city.
- Location: Cyprus
- Top sights: The Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia · Bairaktar Mosque · Ömeriye Mosque
- Nearby: Latsia (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 14 | 16 | 19 | 23 | 27 | 30 | 30 | 28 | 24 | 20 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 72 | 42 | 23 | 13 | 9 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 6 | 15 | 30 | 71 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Omerye Mosque is typically open to visitors outside of prayer times, allowing you to explore both the interior and the peaceful courtyard. Entry is free, but modest dress and removal of shoes are required.
Typical hours
The mosque typically welcomes visitors from early morning until late afternoon, with a closure during midday prayers. For exact times, check local notices or ask at the nearby tourist office.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the mosque, but avoid using flash out of respect for worshippers. The best shots are from the courtyard and the beautifully decorated prayer hall.
Time needed
A thorough visit usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes, including time to sit and absorb the atmosphere. If you join a guided tour, allow an additional 15 minutes.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a stroll through the historic streets of Nicosia’s old town, including the nearby Paphos Gate and the Selimiye Mosque. Many museums and craft shops lie within walking distance.
Getting there
The mosque is located in the heart of Nicosia's old town within the Venetian walls, easily reachable on foot from Eleftheria Square. Public buses stop at the nearby Solomou Square, just a few minutes' walk away.
Insider tip
Visit early in the morning to experience the mosque in peaceful solitude before the crowds arrive. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Cypriot coffee at a nearby café in the old town.
Geography
Facts
- Originally built in the 14th century as an Augustinian monastery
- Converted into a mosque in 1571 following the Ottoman conquest
- Named after Caliph Omar, who reportedly stayed at the site
- Features a well-preserved Gothic main portal from the Lusignan era
- Contains the floor slabs of Frankish nobles inside the structure
- Underwent comprehensive restoration between 2003 and 2004
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Omerye Mosque (8)
Ömeriye Mosque
Mosque in Cyprus, former church of the Augustinian Monastery.
Church of Saint Eleftherios. A dependency of the Holy Monastery of Machaira
Built by Archbishop Kyprianos in 1806, dedicated to Agios Eleftherios.
D' Avila
Bastion in the Venetian city walls of Nicosia.
Shacolas Observatory🏛 museum
Observation deck offering a view over Nicosia.
Eleventh stage
Viewpoint in Nicosia, providing a scenic outlook.
Museum of George and Nefeli Giabra Pierides Collection🏛 museum
Museum in Nicosia, displaying a private art collection.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Was this previously a church?
Yes, it was originally built in the 14th century as the Augustinian church of St. Mary.
Can non-Muslims enter the mosque?
Yes, visits are usually possible outside of prayer times, provided one behaves respectfully.
Do I need to take off my shoes?
Yes, as in any mosque, shoes must be removed before entering the prayer hall.
Is there a hammam nearby?
Yes, right next door is the historic Omerye Hammam, which is still in operation.
How can the building be recognized?
It can be recognized by its tall minaret, built onto the Gothic walls of the old church.
Omerye Mosque: where is it located?
Omerye Mosque is located in Cyprus.
Omerye Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include The Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia, Bairaktar Mosque, Ömeriye Mosque.
Omerye Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Nov.
Omerye Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Omerye Mosque in Nicosia was originally constructed in the 14th century as the Augustinian monastery church of St.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Cyprus →
Nearby cities
Strovolos
Strovolos is a large municipality in the Nicosia District.
Latsia
Latsia is a suburb in the southeast of Nicosia.
Agios Georgios
A picturesque coastal village in Northern Cyprus, famous for its tranquil bay and proximity to the historic town of Kyrenia.
Elia
Elia is a tranquil coastal village in Cyprus, known for its pristine sandy beaches and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Karavas
A picturesque coastal town in Cyprus, renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches, historic sites, and lush Mediterranean scenery.
Lapithos
Lapithos is a picturesque coastal town in Cyprus, known for its lush citrus groves and stunning sea views.
Vasilia
Vasilia is a scenic coastal village in Cyprus offering stunning Mediterranean views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Agioi Trimithias
Agioi Trimithias is a municipality west of Nicosia.
Agios Amvrosios
Agios Amvrosios (Esentepe) is a picturesque coastal village in northern Cyprus, known for its historic charm and Esentepe Belediye Halk P…
Kakopetria
A picturesque village in the Solea Valley, known for its preserved historic quarter, rushing streams, and the famous Agios Nikolaos tis S…
🗺️
Chartzia
A quiet coastal locality in North Cyprus, known for its untouched nature, spectacular mountain backdrops, and exclusive beach clubs.
🗺️
Trapeza
Beautiful Cypriot destination famous for its pristine sea turtle nesting beaches.
Livera
Livera is an idyllic coastal village in the northwest of Cyprus.
🗺️
Orga
A quiet coastal village in Northern Cyprus, known for its untouched nature and crystal-clear waters.
History & landmarks
Lefkara
A world-famous village for traditional lace and silverwork, with architecture defined by its namesake white limestone.
Venetian Walls of Nicosia
These star-shaped fortifications were built in the 16th century by the Venetians.
Frourio Castle
Remains of a defensive structure near Nicosia that is historically significant.
Famagusta Gate
One of the three historical entrance gates of the Venetian fortifications of Nicosia.
Paphos Gate
One of the three historical city gates in the Venetian fortifications of the capital Nicosia.
Alaas Mosque
This mosque is located in the district of Nicosia.
Nature
More places
Agios Ioannis Cathedral
The main cathedral of the Cypriot Orthodox Church in Nicosia.
Byzantine Museum
This museum in Nicosia houses one of the world's largest collections of Byzantine icons.
Archbishop's Palace
The official seat of the Archbishop of the Autocephalous Church of Cyprus in Nicosia.
Panagia Phaneromeni Church
A significant church within the walls of Nicosia.
Makarios Cultural Foundation
This institution in Nicosia houses significant art collections and historical documents of Cyprus.
Leventis Municipal Museum
The museum documents the history of Nicosia from antiquity to the present day.
Solomou Square Central Bus Station
The main hub for intercity and urban bus services in Nicosia, a key public transport node.
Panagia Chrysaliniotissa Church
The oldest Byzantine church in the old town of Nicosia.