Omeriye Mosque
A unique Gothic church transformed into an active Ottoman mosque, blending architectural styles and rich history in Nicosia's old town.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience active worship
Omeriye Mosque
Best Time
Experience active worship
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique Gothic church transformed into an active Ottoman mosque, blending architectural styles and rich history in Nicosia's old town.
"A fascinating fusion of Gothic and Ottoman architecture, this active mosque holds deep historical significance."
👗 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Women, bring a headscarf for respectful entry.
⏰ Check Prayer Times
Visit outside of prayer hours to explore peacefully.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gothic-Ottoman Fusion
Witness the striking architectural blend of a former Gothic church transformed into an Ottoman mosque.
Historical Layers
Explore a site with a rich past, from its 14th-century church origins to its current role as a mosque.
Spiritual Atmosphere
Experience the serene ambiance of this active place of worship, serving the local Muslim community.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Women, bring a headscarf for respectful entry.
⏰ Check Prayer Times
Visit outside of prayer hours to explore peacefully.
🚶♀️ Explore Old Town
Omeriye Mosque is in Nicosia's historic center, perfect for a walking tour.
📸 Capture the History
Photograph the unique blend of Gothic and Ottoman architectural styles.
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Women, bring a headscarf for respectful entry.
⏰ Check Prayer Times
Visit outside of prayer hours to explore peacefully.
🚶♀️ Explore Old Town
Omeriye Mosque is in Nicosia's historic center, perfect for a walking tour.
📸 Capture the History
Photograph the unique blend of Gothic and Ottoman architectural styles.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Omeriye Mosque is recognized for its unique historical significance as a former Gothic church converted into an active mosque, showcasing a fascinating blend of architectural styles. Visitors appreciate its spiritual atmosphere and role in the local Muslim community. However, some reviews point to its basic and somewhat tired condition, raising concerns about its preservation.
"This is familiar with the name big mosque in old town Nicosia. We had a wonderful month of Ramadan (Arabic month) in march 2025.
For first couple of days as an international student, the provided Iftars were relaxing and ease of coping up with days.
Nice moments were then."
Syed Saiful Islam
"Following the turkish invasion of Cyprus, the mosque gained significance as one of the most important sites of Muslim worship in the non-Muslim section of the island and the city. The site of the mosque was originally occupied by the Augustinian Church of Saint Mary, which dated back to the 14th century, but it was destroyed. After the Turkish conquest of Cyprus, Lala Mustafa Pasha, the Ottoman commander, ordered a mosque to be built on the site of the former church,[2] based on a popular belief that Umar, second caliph of Islam, was buried at this site in 7th century. According to turkish cypriot folklore, the Ömeriye Mosque is the first mosque where turks prayed on the island following its conquest in 1571"
bogdan alexandru bola
"Jummuah Khutbah started at 1.30pm and the Prayer started around 1.55pm. Large prayer area and a very basic and tired looking masjid. The Imaam had a very soothing Qiraat.
I did not use the wudu facilities so I can not comment on that."
Sajid Mahmood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Omeriye Mosque is located in the heart of the old city of Nicosia. It's easily accessible by foot if you are already exploring the historic center. Taxis are also readily available to take you to the old town area.
The Omeriye Mosque is situated in South Nicosia, which is the Greek Cypriot side of the divided capital. It is one of the few mosques in this part of the city.
The best way to explore the area is on foot, as the mosque is nestled within the charming old town streets. This allows you to discover other historical sites and local markets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter Omeriye Mosque as it is an active place of worship. Visitors are welcome outside of prayer times.
The mosque is open to visitors outside of the five daily prayer times. It's advisable to check local prayer schedules for the most accurate times.
Yes, a modest dress code is required. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Women are also asked to cover their heads.
Yes, you can visit during Ramadan. Some visitors have noted that iftars (breaking of the fast) were provided, offering a unique experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Omeriye Mosque was originally the 14th-century Augustinian Church of Saint Mary. After the Ottoman conquest, it was converted into a mosque, believed to be built on the burial site of Umar, the second Caliph of Islam.
It's a fascinating example of architectural fusion, showcasing Gothic elements from its church past and Ottoman additions. 
Yes, Omeriye Mosque is an active place of worship for the small Muslim community in South Nicosia.
Some reviews mention that the mosque is in a basic and tired condition, with one visitor noting it appears to be heading towards demolition.
The Imam's recitation (Qiraat) has been described as soothing. The prayer area is large but basic.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but always be respectful of worshippers and avoid flash photography during prayer times.
Capture the unique blend of Gothic arches and Ottoman minarets. The exterior details and the interior's historical ambiance are also great subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🕌 Religious Visitors
🏛️ History Buffs
+1 Consider researching the history of the Augustinian order in Cyprus and the Ottoman conquest to fully appreciate the context of this site. Be aware of its current condition, as some visitors have noted signs of wear and tear. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tale of Two Faiths: The Mosque's Architectural Journey
The mosque's current appearance is a fascinating dialogue between its past and present. Visitors can observe the remnants of its ecclesiastical past alongside the distinct features of Islamic architecture, such as the minaret. This fusion makes Omeriye Mosque a significant historical and architectural landmark, offering a visual narrative of the island's cultural shifts.
Despite its historical importance, some recent observations suggest the mosque is in a state of disrepair, with one visitor noting it appears to be 'heading towards a demolition.'
Experiencing Omeriye Mosque as a Place of Worship
For those observing Ramadan, the mosque has provided iftars (meals to break the fast) in the past, creating a welcoming environment for international students and visitors. This communal aspect underscores the mosque's role in the local community.
While the prayer area is described as large, it is also noted as being 'basic and tired looking.'
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