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St. Sophia Cathedral Gothic Landmark Cyprus

St. Sophia Cathedral Gothic Landmark Cyprus

In the center of North Nicosia stands the largest Gothic building in Cyprus. Originally a cathedral, it was later turned into a mosque but still keeps its French Gothic style. Over 800 years, the building has seen coronations, earthquakes, sieges, and the rise and fall of kingdoms, making it one of the most important historic sites on the island. St. Sophia Cathedral, now called Selimiye Mosque, was built in the 13th century. It was converted into a mosque in 1570 after the Ottoman conquest of Cyprus. The building measures 66 by 21 meters inside and can hold about 2,500 worshippers. It was the coronation church for the Lusignan kings of Cyprus and later for the titular kings of Jerusalem and Armenia. Historical Background Construction of St. Sophia Cathedral began in 1209 under the Lusignan dynasty, a French royal family that ruled Cyprus after the Crusades. Its design was strongly inspired by Notre-Dame de Paris and other French cathedrals. French masons came to Cyprus to lead the work, while local craftsmen helped. The building took more than 150 years to finish, with the final parts completed around 1326. For over 200 years, St. Sophia was the coronation church for the Lusignan kings. Kings of Cyprus were crowned here as rulers of Jerusalem, even though Jerusalem was no longer under their control.…

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Education and Academic Institutions

Education and Academic Institutions

Education in Cyprus is overseen by the Ministry of Education, Sports and Youth. The education system is divided into pre-primary education for ages 3 to 6, primary education for ages 6 to 12, secondary education for ages 12 to 18, and higher education for ages 18 and above. Full-time education is compulsory for all children aged between 5 and 15. State-provided schooling including higher education is paid for by taxes, making public education free at all levels for eligible students. The Cypriot education system follows the Bologna framework, meaning degrees from Cyprus are recognized across Europe and globally, offering students internationally accepted qualifications. The Three Levels of Schooling Pre-primary education begins at age 3 and continues until age 6, though it is not mandatory. Public kindergartens operate under the Ministry of Education and follow a structured curriculum preparing children for primary school. Private kindergartens also exist, often offering bilingual or English-language programs. Primary education lasts six years from ages 6 to 12. The curriculum includes Greek language, mathematics, natural sciences, history, geography, religious education, physical education, music, and art. English language instruction typically begins in the third grade. Primary schools operate as single-shift schools, with classes from morning through early afternoon. Secondary education divides into two cycles. Lower secondary education, called Gymnasio, covers three years from ages 12 to 15.…

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Regional Identity in Cypriot Folk Dress

Regional Identity in Cypriot Folk Dress

Both men's and women's traditional outfits consisted of an inner layer called poukamisso. For men it resembled a white cotton long sleeved chemise, whilst women usually wore a longer underdress. These multilayered garments developed from practical necessity in Cyprus's Mediterranean climate while also serving to distinguish between daily work attire and festive occasions. The Cypriot costume in the past was an entire ensemble with each layer serving its own purpose. The inner layers were plain and made out of cotton or linen, whilst outer layers were lavishly decorated with ornaments and embroidery, with decoration, fabric quality, and color signaling social status, wealth, and regional origin. The Distinctive Vraka Pants Known for their distinctive silhouette, vraka trousers are more than just a piece of clothing, they are an integral part of the national identity and culture. In fact, vraka is the key element that separates Cypriot men's attire from the Greek national costume. These loose baggy trousers, made out of hand-made cotton, are the highlight of the men's traditional garment. Typically, vraka trousers are made from a large single piece of cotton fabric dyed in black. The fabric is folded into pleats and gathered at the top and at the bottom and secured with a cord called vrakozoni around the waist. Despite what we think today, Cypriot men were not wearing…

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