Haydar Pasha Mosque St Catherine - Image 1
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Haydar Pasha Mosque St Catherine

4.3
·32 reviews·Lefkoşa,

A stunning fusion of 14th-century Gothic church and 16th-century Ottoman mosque, offering a unique architectural and historical experience in Nicosia.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for architecture

CrowdLow
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Haydar Pasha Mosque St Catherine - Image 1

Haydar Pasha Mosque St Catherine

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for architecture

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning fusion of 14th-century Gothic church and 16th-century Ottoman mosque, offering a unique architectural and historical experience in Nicosia.

4.3
(32 reviews)

"A striking blend of Gothic grace and Ottoman faith, this mosque is a must-see for its unique history and beauty."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Contrast

Photograph the unique blend of Gothic and Ottoman styles; it's a photographer's dream!

🚶 Explore Quiet Streets

Wander the surrounding quiet streets and old stone houses for a complete historical immersion.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gothic Exterior

Gothic Exterior

Exterior of the mosque

Admire the striking Gothic architecture with pointed arches, rose windows, and flying buttresses, reminiscent of a miniature cathedral.

Reddit
Minaret

Minaret

Southwest corner

Note the tall minaret, the second tallest in the city, added during the Ottoman conversion.

Reddit
Interior Serenity

Interior Serenity

Inside the mosque

Experience the peaceful, simple interior that reflects its current role as a place of prayer, contrasting with its grand exterior.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

A Unique Architectural Fusion

Experience a stunning blend of Gothic and Ottoman styles. Originally a 14th-century church, it was converted into a mosque in the 16th century, showcasing a fascinating historical transition. Reddit

Check for Current Access

While a significant historical site, access can vary. Some visitors have reported it being closed for restoration or events, so confirm its availability before your visit. Reddit

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best light for architecture
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📸 Capture the Contrast

Photograph the unique blend of Gothic and Ottoman styles; it's a photographer's dream! Reddit

🚶 Explore Quiet Streets

Wander the surrounding quiet streets and old stone houses for a complete historical immersion. Reddit

🧐 Check for Art Exhibits

Sometimes, the mosque doubles as an art gallery, adding another layer to your visit. Reddit

⏳ Verify Opening Hours

Access can be inconsistent due to restoration or events; confirm availability beforehand. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Contrast

Photograph the unique blend of Gothic and Ottoman styles; it's a photographer's dream! Reddit

🚶 Explore Quiet Streets

Wander the surrounding quiet streets and old stone houses for a complete historical immersion. Reddit

🧐 Check for Art Exhibits

Sometimes, the mosque doubles as an art gallery, adding another layer to your visit. Reddit

⏳ Verify Opening Hours

Access can be inconsistent due to restoration or events; confirm availability beforehand. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(32 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Haydar Pasha Mosque for its stunning and unique blend of Gothic and Ottoman architecture, calling it a fascinating historical site. The contrast between its church origins and mosque function is a major draw. However, some have experienced issues with inconsistent access due to potential closures for restoration or events, leading to disappointment.

"The formerly gothic church of St. Catherine's is now a mosque in northern Cyprus. Originally built in the 14th century, it was transformed into a mosque after the conquest of Cyprus in 1570. After the Solemyie Mosque, it has the tallest minaret in the city. Sometimes, if you are lucky, this mosque also functions as an art gallery."

bogdan alexandru bola

"A Striking Blend of Gothic Grace and Ottoman Faith

Haydarpaşa Mosque, located in the historic walled city of Nicosia, Northern Cyprus, is a beautiful and thought-provoking example of Cyprus’s layered past. Originally built as a Gothic church during the Lusignan period, it was later converted into a mosque during the Ottoman era-creating a rare and fascinating fusion of European medieval architecture and Islamic tradition.
Its exterior is breathtaking, with pointed arches, rose windows, and flying buttresses, resembling a miniature cathedral. Inside, the space is peaceful and simple, reflecting its current role as a place of prayer. The contrast between its Gothic form and serene Islamic function makes it one of the most unique and photogenic buildings in Nicosia.
Surrounded by quiet streets and old stone houses, this mosque invites both reflection and admiration. Whether you’re a history lover, architecture enthusiast, or cultural traveler, Haydarpaşa Mosque is a hidden gem worth discovering.
Highly recommended for its elegance, atmosphere, and historical significance."

Maxim Novikov

"The Haydar Pasa Mosque was built as the St Catherine Church by the Lusignans in the 14th century, and was the second largest church in Nicosia at the time. It is the most substantial Gothic monument in Nicosia after the Selimiye Mosque. Great buttresses flank its high, slender windows, the roofline rimmed with gargoyles. The southern door is a masterpiece of detailed stone carving, and the Lusignan coat of arms are above the door, along with an ornamental poppy or acanthus bud. The west entrance is larger with the same architecture. Its frame is decorated with motifs of roses and dragons. The west facade is adorned with a Catherine window, shaped like the wheel of the saints' martyrdom.
The building, which was used as part of the woman's monastery during the Latin period, had parts added and modified during the Ottoman period, and the church converted into a mosque. A purpose-built minaret was added on to the south west corner, sadly in a style not in keeping with the original structure. The church was renamed the Agalar Mosque in 1570.
In the 1950s it was used as the marriage and registration office. The mosque was restored between 1986 and 1991, and reopened as an exhibition gallery (the H P Gallery) in 1994."

Ian Fergusson-Sharp

What People Like

Unique Gothic-Ottoman fusion
Architectural beauty
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Inconsistent access
Occasional closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Haydar Pasha Mosque is located in the historic walled city of Nicosia, Northern Cyprus, on Kirlizade Street. It's best accessed on foot once you are within the old city walls. If arriving by car, look for parking outside the walls and walk in. Reddit

Public transport within the walled city is limited. The most convenient way to reach the mosque is by walking from other points of interest within the old city or by taking a taxi to the nearest accessible point. Reddit

The area around Haydar Pasha Mosque is best explored on foot. The surrounding streets are quiet and lined with old stone houses, offering a charming glimpse into Nicosia's past. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no admission fee to visit the mosque as it is a place of worship. However, it's advisable to check for any specific entry requirements or potential fees if it's being used for an exhibition. Reddit

Opening hours can be variable. While it functions as a mosque, it may have specific visiting times. Some visitors have noted it being closed for restoration or events, so it's recommended to verify its accessibility on the day of your visit. Reddit

As it is an active mosque, modest dress is recommended. This typically means covering shoulders and knees. Women may wish to bring a headscarf. Reddit

Visitors are generally welcome outside of the main prayer times. It's respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid disruptive behavior during prayer. Reddit

Not always. Some reviews indicate that the mosque has been closed for restoration or used as an exhibition space, impacting general access. It's best to confirm its status before planning your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is usually permitted inside mosques, but it's important to be respectful. Avoid flash photography and be mindful of worshippers. The unique architectural blend makes it a fantastic spot for photos. Reddit

The exterior offers a dramatic Gothic facade, while the interior provides a serene contrast. Capturing the minaret against the sky is also a popular choice. Experiment with different angles to highlight the fusion of styles. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical sites for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to assume drone photography is not permitted without explicit authorization. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture

Originally built as the Church of Saint Catherine by the Lusignans in the 14th century, it was converted into a mosque in 1570 after the Ottoman conquest of Cyprus. It's a significant example of Gothic architecture transformed into an Ottoman religious site. Reddit

The mosque is a remarkable fusion of styles. Its exterior showcases Gothic elements like pointed arches and flying buttresses, while its interior reflects its conversion to an Ottoman mosque with additions like a mihrab and pulpit. Reddit

Its uniqueness stems from the dramatic transformation from a Gothic church to an Islamic mosque, creating a rare and visually striking architectural hybrid that tells a story of Cyprus's layered history. Reddit

The mosque is named after Haydar Ağa, a volunteer leader who repaired the church and converted it into a mosque in 1573. His name later became 'Haydar Pasha' among the public. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Haydar Pasha Mosque offers a unique visual lesson in history and architecture for families. The striking Gothic exterior, with its arches and windows, can spark children's imagination, while the transition to a mosque provides a simple way to discuss cultural changes. It's a relatively quiet site, making it manageable with younger children. Reddit

Keep in mind that access can be unpredictable, so have a backup plan. Encourage kids to look for interesting details on the stonework. The surrounding quiet streets are also pleasant for a short stroll, offering a break from more crowded tourist spots. Remember to dress modestly to be respectful of its function as a mosque. Reddit

🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and architecture, Haydar Pasha Mosque is a must-visit. It's a prime example of Gothic architecture in Cyprus, showcasing Lusignan-era craftsmanship. The subsequent Ottoman conversion offers a rare opportunity to study the adaptation of a sacred space and the fusion of distinct architectural styles. Reddit

Pay close attention to the detailed stone carvings, the unique window designs, and the added minaret. The contrast between the original structure and the later additions tells a compelling story of Nicosia's past. Consider researching the history of the Lusignan and Ottoman periods in Cyprus before your visit to fully appreciate the context. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Tale of Two Eras: Gothic and Ottoman

Haydar Pasha Mosque stands as a testament to Nicosia's rich and complex history, embodying a fascinating architectural dialogue between the Lusignan and Ottoman periods. Originally constructed in the 14th century as the Church of Saint Catherine, it was the second-largest church in Nicosia and a significant Gothic monument. Its exterior still proudly displays the hallmarks of this era: soaring pointed arches, intricate rose windows, and robust flying buttresses that lend it a cathedral-like grandeur. The detailed stone carving on its southern door and the decorative motifs around the west entrance further highlight its Lusignan origins. Reddit

Following the Ottoman conquest in 1570, the church underwent a significant transformation. It was converted into a mosque, with the addition of essential Islamic architectural elements such as a mihrab (prayer niche) and a pulpit. A purpose-built minaret was added to the southwest corner, though its style is noted as being somewhat incongruous with the original Gothic structure. This conversion created a unique hybrid structure, where the sacred space of a Gothic church was adapted for Islamic worship, offering visitors a profound visual representation of the island's cultural shifts. Reddit

This duality makes Haydar Pasha Mosque a compelling site for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. It's not just a building; it's a narrative etched in stone, telling the story of conquest, adaptation, and the enduring legacy of different civilizations. The contrast between its medieval European form and its current Islamic function is striking and thought-provoking, making it one of the most distinctive landmarks in Nicosia. Reddit

Navigating Access and Experience

Visiting Haydar Pasha Mosque offers a unique cultural experience, but it's important to be aware of potential access variations. While it serves as an active mosque, its historical significance also leads to its use as an exhibition space, which can affect general visiting hours. Some travelers have reported finding the mosque closed for restoration or during special events, underscoring the need to confirm its availability before making a trip. Reddit

When visiting, remember that it is a place of worship. Modest dress is expected, with shoulders and knees covered. Women may wish to bring a headscarf for added respect. Photography is generally allowed, but it's crucial to be mindful of worshippers and avoid flash photography. Capturing the striking architectural contrasts, both inside and out, is highly recommended for photographers. Reddit

Beyond the mosque itself, take time to explore the surrounding area. The quiet streets and old stone houses provide a charming backdrop and a sense of stepping back in time. This immersive experience, combining architectural marvel with historical context and local atmosphere, is what makes Haydar Pasha Mosque a highly recommended stop for cultural travelers. Reddit

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