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The Bedesten (covered market) in North Nicosia is a former 14th-century Orthodox church that was converted into a market hall by the Ottomans after 1570. Originally built as the Church of St Nicholas of the English (named after English Crusaders who may have funded its construction), the Gothic structure features pointed arches, carved doorways, and fragments of faded wall paintings. The Ottomans bricked up the nave, added a new entrance, and used the building as a cloth market - hence the name Bedesten, from the Turkish word for a roofed market.
After years of dereliction, the Bedesten was restored and reopened as a cultural centre and exhibition space. The interior is atmospheric - stone columns, Gothic arches overhead, patches of medieval fresco peeking through plaster. It sits next to Selimiye Mosque in the heart of North Nicosia's old market district, surrounded by small shops and street vendors. Entry is free. The carved stone doorway on the southern facade, featuring coats of arms and Gothic tracery, is one of the finest examples of Lusignan architectural decoration in the city.
Pro Tip: Look for the carved coats of arms on the south door - they belong to the Lusignan royal family and local noble houses. Combine with Selimiye Mosque and Buyuk Han for a complete northern old city loop in under two hours.
