Eleftheria Square - a couple of people that are walking around
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Eleftheria Square

4.6
·1k reviews·Nicosia, Cyprus

A striking example of Zaha Hadid's futuristic architecture, Eleftheria Square offers a modern oasis in Nicosia's historic heart.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings or late afternoons

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Eleftheria Square - a couple of people that are walking around

Eleftheria Square

Best Time

Early mornings or late afternoons

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A striking example of Zaha Hadid's futuristic architecture, Eleftheria Square offers a modern oasis in Nicosia's historic heart.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"Unique and futuristic, but feels out of place in Nicosia's spirit."

Vertical photo
TIP

Seek Shade Strategically

Few trees! Cafes offer respite from the intense Cypriot sun. :coffee:

Appreciate the Design

Unique Zaha Hadid architecture, though some find it contrasts with old Nicosia. :building_construction:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Zaha Hadid's Architectural Vision

Zaha Hadid's Architectural Vision

Experience the bold, futuristic design of this iconic architect's work in the heart of Nicosia.

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Hadjisavva Building, 7th Floor

Enjoy breathtaking views of Eleftheria Square and the old city skyline from a sophisticated rooftop bar.

Caffè Nero Oasis

Caffè Nero Oasis

Within Eleftheria Square

A modern and cozy spot to relax with seasonal drinks and delicious treats amidst the square's buzz.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Sun (or Seek Shade!)

Nicosia's Eleftheria Square is a striking modern design, but reviewers consistently note a lack of shade. Visit during cooler parts of the day or be prepared to find cafes for respite from the Cypriot sun. :sunwithface: Reddit

Modern Meets Historic Charm

While the square's Zaha Hadid architecture is a draw, some feel it contrasts with Nicosia's older spirit. Appreciate the unique design while exploring nearby historic areas for a fuller Nicosia experience. :cityscape: Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings or late afternoons
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Enjoy city lights and cooler temps
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How to have the best experience at the Aceopolis in Athens/ Parthenon! We went in early April for reference. #parthenon #acropolis #athens #athena #greece #greek #travel #traveltips #europe #europeansummer
@claireliseg
23.4K likes • 404.6K views

Seek Shade Strategically

Few trees! Cafes offer respite from the intense Cypriot sun. :coffee: Reddit

Appreciate the Design

Unique Zaha Hadid architecture, though some find it contrasts with old Nicosia. :building_construction: Reddit

atop the Hadjisavva building on Evagorou Avenue’s 7th floor, Balza offers a relaxed, sophisticated escape with panoramic views of Eleftheria Square and the old city skyline . Spanning around 500 m² and divided into a bar and a restaurant, it features 40 tables, two bars (including a striking 20-meter diameter bar), and a calming natural color palette . Known for exceptional cocktails, Mediterranea...
smirnov_robert_benefactor
2 likes • 593 views
I finally made it to the long-awaited spot in📍Eleftheria Square— Caffè Nero! I’ve been so excited for this, especially with the season changing 💙🎄 The location is perfect, moderns and so cozy. AND OF COURSE, I couldn’t resist trying their seasonal Chestnut White Latte :)) Paired it with a Red Velvet Cheesecake, and WOW both were so delicious. Match made in heaven. I’m officially in the Christmas...
rita.orlova
562 likes • 21.2K views

Combine with Old Town

Explore nearby historic areas for a richer Nicosia experience. :old_key: Instagram

Rooftop Bar Views

Enjoy panoramic city views from the Hadjisavva building's 7th floor. :camerawithflash: Instagram

🇨🇾 Eleftheria Square in Nicosia City Center. #Cyprus #winter2022 #nicosia #lefkosia #eleftheriasquare #zahahadidarchitects #capital #citycenter #oldtown #venetianwalls #modernachitecture #ChooseYourCyprus #LoveCyprus #visitcyprus🌴🍍☀️⚓️🚤
chooseyourcyprus
385 likes • 7.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Seek Shade Strategically

Few trees! Cafes offer respite from the intense Cypriot sun. :coffee: Reddit

Appreciate the Design

Unique Zaha Hadid architecture, though some find it contrasts with old Nicosia. :building_construction: Reddit

Combine with Old Town

Explore nearby historic areas for a richer Nicosia experience. :old_key: Instagram

Rooftop Bar Views

Enjoy panoramic city views from the Hadjisavva building's 7th floor. :camerawithflash: Instagram

Coffee Break Spot

Caffè Nero offers a cozy modern escape with great drinks. :tea: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Eleftheria Square is lauded for its unique, futuristic Zaha Hadid architecture, offering a modern contrast to Nicosia's historic charm. Visitors appreciate the open space and the opportunity to enjoy city views from nearby cafes and rooftop bars. However, many note the significant lack of shade, making it challenging during hot weather, and some feel the modern design doesn't quite fit the city's traditional spirit.

"The square, on its own, is very unique and futuristic, but personally, I feel like it is very out of place in Nicosia, like it doesn't really fit in with the city's general architecture and spirit.
My main fault, though, is that it is so open and bare. In the scorching heat of the Cypriot Sun, you have a large city square with few to no trees. Honestly, I feel like any sort of flora would've been welcome to alleviate some of the brutal heat."

Nikola Radovanović

"Needs a bit of a clean and is slightly run down but I loved it I loved to have experienced zaha hadids architecture in Nicosia so close to home !!"

Izbel Kayim

"Such a beautiful architecture to admire, we stayed here for a break to get some shed from the hot afternoon summer sun. If you’re in Nicosia don’t miss this place"

Rudy Akram

What People Like

Unique modern architecture
Open urban space
City views from rooftop

What People Dislike

Lack of shade
Contrasts with old city

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Eleftheria Square is centrally located in Nicosia's city center, making it easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transport. If you're exploring the old town, it's a pleasant walk. :bus: Instagram

Yes, there are parking facilities available near the square, though they can get busy during peak hours. Consider using a parking app to find available spots. :car: Reddit

Absolutely! Eleftheria Square is a great starting or ending point for exploring Nicosia's historic Venetian walls and charming old town streets. :walking: Instagram

Several bus routes serve the Nicosia city center, with stops close to Eleftheria Square. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient options. :bus: Instagram

Yes, its central location and modern design make it an excellent hub to begin your exploration of Nicosia's historical and contemporary attractions. :compass: Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Eleftheria Square is a public space and is free to enter and explore. :ticket: Instagram

As an open public square, Eleftheria Square is accessible 24/7. However, individual cafes and businesses within or around the square will have their own operating hours. :clock1: Instagram

There are no admission fees to walk around and admire the architecture of Eleftheria Square. :moneywithwings:

Cafes like Caffè Nero operate during their specific business hours. It's best to check their individual opening times if you plan to visit. :coffee: Instagram

Yes, you can easily spend 30 minutes to an hour admiring the architecture and enjoying the open space, or longer if you plan to visit a cafe or rooftop bar. :stopwatch:

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the unique geometric lines of the Zaha Hadid architecture from various angles. The rooftop bar offers stunning panoramic shots of the square and city. :camerawithflash: Instagram

While drone photography might be restricted in urban centers, check local regulations before flying. The square's open design offers unique aerial perspectives if permitted. :drone:

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful lighting for architectural photography. Evenings offer a different ambiance with city lights. :sunriseovermountains: Instagram

Yes, you can take photos inside the cafes, but be mindful of other patrons and their privacy. :iphone: Instagram

Focus on the flowing concrete forms, the central water features (if active), and the interplay of light and shadow on the unique structures. :art:

🎫 ☀️ Onsite Experience

Admire the modern architecture, enjoy a coffee at a cafe, or visit the rooftop bar for city views. It's also a great spot for a leisurely walk. :walking: Instagram+1

Crowds can vary, with evenings and weekends being busier. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays can offer a more serene experience. :people_hugging:

While the square is open, seating is primarily found within the cafes and the rooftop bar. Some low walls and steps offer informal resting spots. :chair: Reddit

Nicosia experiences hot summers and mild winters. The square is very exposed, so be prepared for the sun and heat, especially in summer. :thermometer: Reddit

It can be, especially if you find a spot in a cafe or enjoy the open space. However, the lack of shade might limit relaxation for some during peak heat. :relaxed:

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

While there isn't a formal restaurant within the square itself, the rooftop bar atop the Hadjisavva building offers dining options with views. Cafes like Caffè Nero are also present. :forkandknife: Instagram+1

The surrounding area and nearby old town offer a variety of Cypriot cuisine, from traditional tavernas to modern eateries. :poultry_leg:

Yes, Caffè Nero is a popular cafe located within the square, offering a modern and cozy atmosphere. :coffee: Instagram

The rooftop bar, Balza, offers a sophisticated menu with a focus on relaxed dining and drinks, featuring panoramic views. :wine_glass: Instagram

Absolutely! Caffè Nero is perfect for a quick coffee, pastry, or a light snack. :croissant:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Eleftheria Square offers a large, open space for children to move around, but the lack of shade can be a significant challenge during hot weather. Parents should be prepared with sun protection and plenty of water. Reddit While there aren't specific play areas, the unique architecture might capture a child's imagination. Consider a visit to a nearby cafe for a break. :child:

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting Eleftheria Square itself is free, making it an excellent budget-friendly attraction. Instagram You can enjoy the architecture and open space without spending a dime. For affordable refreshments, look for local bakeries or smaller cafes away from the immediate tourist hotspots. :money_bag:

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The striking, modern architecture of Eleftheria Square provides endless opportunities for unique and dramatic photographs. Instagram Experiment with different angles, focus on the geometric lines, and consider visiting during golden hour for optimal lighting. The rooftop bar offers a different perspective for cityscape shots. :camerawithflash: Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Eleftheria Square is a safe and accessible public space for solo travelers to explore. It's a great spot to people-watch, enjoy a coffee, or simply take a moment to appreciate the urban design. The nearby cafes and the rooftop bar offer opportunities to relax and observe the city. :singlewomanwoman:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel: Zaha Hadid's Vision

Eleftheria Square is a testament to the late architect Zaha Hadid's distinctive style, characterized by fluid lines and futuristic forms. The design aims to create a dynamic public space, integrating modern elements with the historical context of Nicosia. The extensive use of concrete and the geometric patterns are hallmarks of Hadid's approach, making the square a significant piece of contemporary architecture in Cyprus. Instagram

However, the design has also drawn criticism. Some visitors and locals feel the stark, open nature of the square, particularly its lack of greenery and shade, makes it feel out of place or uncomfortable during Nicosia's hot climate. The contrast between the ultra-modern design and the surrounding historic city fabric is a point of discussion among those who visit. Reddit

Despite the differing opinions on its aesthetic integration, the square remains a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and offers a unique urban experience. It's a space that sparks conversation and provides a striking visual contrast within the city. Zaha Hadid's Eleftheria Square is a bold statement in urban design. :art:

Navigating Nicosia's Climate: Shade and Comfort

One of the most frequently mentioned aspects of visiting Eleftheria Square, particularly by those who have experienced it firsthand, is the intense Cypriot sun and the relative lack of natural shade. Reviewers consistently point out that the expansive, open design, while visually striking, offers little respite from the heat during warmer months. Reddit

To make the most of your visit, planning is key. Early morning or late afternoon visits are highly recommended to avoid the peak heat of the day. Alternatively, strategically utilizing the cafes and bars located within or adjacent to the square, such as Caffè Nero or the rooftop bar Balza, can provide much-needed shade and a comfortable place to relax. Instagram+1

When exploring Eleftheria Square, especially during summer, remember to bring sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Staying hydrated is also crucial. While the architecture is impressive, comfort should be a priority to fully enjoy the experience. :sunwithface: :droplet:

Beyond the Square: Exploring Nicosia's Charm

While Eleftheria Square itself is a modern architectural statement, many visitors find its charm is best appreciated when combined with an exploration of Nicosia's historic heart. The square serves as a gateway to the Venetian walls and the labyrinthine streets of the old town, offering a fascinating juxtaposition of old and new. Instagram

Take time to wander through the nearby alleys, discover traditional Cypriot shops, and soak in the atmosphere of a city with a rich and complex history. The contrast between the sleek lines of Zaha Hadid's design and the ancient stone buildings nearby creates a unique urban tapestry. Reddit

For those interested in panoramic views, the Hadjisavva building offers a fantastic vantage point from its rooftop bar, Balza, providing a broader perspective of the city, including Eleftheria Square and the surrounding historical landscape. Instagram This combination of modern design, historical exploration, and elevated viewpoints makes for a well-rounded Nicosia experience. :cityscape: :old_key:

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