In recent years, the capital has attracted an increasing number of expatriates: employees of companies and embassies, entrepreneurs, investors and students. And while every neighbourhood in Nicosia has at least a small percentage of expats, some are particularly popular.
Let's take a look at the individual characteristics of these neighbourhoods, their atmosphere and infrastructure, to find out exactly what makes them so attractive to foreigners.
Aglantzia
Geography
Located 3.8km south-east of the centre of the capital, close to the Green Line, Aglantzia is one of Nicosia's most picturesque and colourful suburbs. The district is elevated among the hills and covers an area of 31km2, of which 9km2 is the Atalassa Nature Reserve and other parks and green areas.
History of Aglantzia
The history of Aglantzia goes back several thousand years. English archaeologists have found a hill to the east of Aglantzia, called Arona or 'liontarovuno', which literally means 'lion's hill', which contains burials dating back to the Bronze Age (3,200 to 3,888 BC). Scientists believe that there was an older settlement on the hills of Aglantzia, the predecessor of the famous ancient city of Lydra.
Also on the 'Lion's Hill', archaeological excavations have found the ruins of the medieval castle of La Cava, built in 1385 and belonging to King James. After the Ottoman occupation of Nicosia, the settlement fell into decline, but by the 18th century it had become an independent rural area whose inhabitants were engaged in agriculture, cattle breeding and stone quarrying.
Parks and green spaces
Nestled among picturesque hills, Aglantzia is covered in greenery thanks to a large number of parks and natural areas, the most famous of which are the Athalassa Forest Park, the Agios Georgios Park, the Aglantzia Municipal Park and about 45 other smaller parks and green areas. The most famous of these is Atalassa Park, also known as 'the lungs of Nicosia'. It is a true nature reserve with many endemic species of animals, birds and plants, covering an area of 840 hectares, with a total length of 20 kilometres of walking and cycling paths.
Churches and temples
In addition to the parks, Aglandja has preserved many ancient churches. One of them, St George's Church, was built by the famous 18th century translator Hadzigeorgakis Kornesios.
Culture
Another unique attraction of Aglantzia is the Scali Cultural Centre, designed in 1992 by the architectural firm I. Ioakim & A. Lioza, who won the tender for this conceptual project, which subsequently won many architectural awards. Scali is designed in the shape of an ancient amphitheatre, part of which is built into the sandy rock, creating the atmosphere of an ancient theatre. The centre hosts concerts, plays, exhibitions, conferences and lectures. If Atalassa Park is the lungs of Aglantzia, Skali is its cultural heart.
Aglantzia hosts the annual Aglan Jazz Festival, the Septemberfest Beer Festival, the Carnival and the Aglantzia Festival, which features cultural events of folk music, creativity and handicrafts.
Infrastructure
Aglantzia is home to several hotels, many shops, the main offices of Cypriot banks, several primary and secondary schools and one of the best universities in Cyprus, the University of Cyprus. It is also home to the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation and two private television stations.
There is a well-developed transport and road infrastructure linking Aglantzia with the city centre and other areas. Thanks to government and municipal initiatives, the area continues to develop. It is pedestrian friendly. There are many safe pedestrian areas, especially near the universities, as well as special areas for cyclists, for whom many cycle paths have been created and more are planned for the near future.
Educational facilities
There are five primary schools and two secondary schools in Aglantzia: Aglantzia Grammar School and the French Cypriot School of Nicosia. The American Academy Nicosia and The Junior & Senior School are nearby. There are also two public and four private kindergartens in the area, including the English Nursery School M.S. École Maternelle. Aglandzia is home to one of Cyprus' top universities, the University of Cyprus, as well as the capital's Limassol University campus.
Healthcare
There are both public and private clinics in Aglantzia. The Aglantzia Health Centre is a public facility, while one of the best private clinics in the area is the Bioiatriki Healthcare Group. There is also the SYNLAB Cyprus BCP Aglantzia Diagnostic Centre, which carries out laboratory tests and investigations.
Demographics
According to 2021 statistics, Aglantzia had a population of 21,544, the majority of whom are Greek Cypriots, most of whom are employed in the public sector.
However, the expatriate community has grown significantly in recent times, consisting mainly of British retirees, Greeks, Russians and Middle Easterners, both professionals and students.
Real Estate
The property market in Aglantzia is very diverse, offering high end and mid-range apartments and houses. Platy Aglantzias is particularly popular with expats and is located next to Atalassa Park, where many new apartment and house projects are being built, both premium and mid-range.
Atmosphere
The area skilfully blends history and modernity. Narrow streets with restored houses add to the unique charm of the past, while modern buildings, cafes and shops provide all the comforts of urban life. Expats are attracted by Aglantzia's cosmopolitan atmosphere and the balance between the dynamic pace of the city and its proximity to nature. It has everything for a healthy lifestyle, with plenty of parks and walking and cycling paths.
Expat life
The Aglantzia community is very active and involved in many cultural projects and environmental initiatives.
Strovolos
Geography
Strovolos is one of the largest and most densely populated municipalities in Nicosia. Located just three kilometres from the city centre, it borders the districts of Aglandja, Engomi, Latia and Lakatamia and covers an area of approximately 25 km2.
History
According to one version, the name Strovolos comes from the name of an ancient species of indigenous pine tree called 'Strovilos'. Like many other parts of Nicosia, Strovolos has an ancient history dating back to ancient times. Archaeologists have found an ancient necropolis nearby and medieval chronicles indicate that people lived here in ancient times. Researchers believe that there was a small settlement here in ancient times and that its inhabitants were farmers.
In the Middle Ages, Strovolos is mentioned under the name 'Strovilos' in the records of the famous chronicler of the time, Leontios Maheras, and a little later in the chronicles of Forius Bustronius. According to these records, Strovolos was a royal fief during the Frankish period. The king of the Franks bred falcons in this area and used them for hunting. It is also known that the country residence of King Henry II was located here. In turn, in 1464, these lands were given by another king, James II, to his subject Demetris de Cornu for special honours. Its last medieval owner was Diego de Vittoria. Under Ottoman rule, however, the area became a small agricultural settlement.
During the British rule, the population of Strovolos began to grow rapidly and increased almost 5 times. During this period the first roads and schools were built. After the events of 1974 and the division of the island into two parts, many refugees from Northern Cyprus were forced to flee the occupied areas and took refuge in Strovolos. As a result, many developments were quickly built to meet their needs.
Churches and temples
Strovolos is also a spiritual centre with about 27 churches and chapels: the famous Hagia Sophia, an exact replica of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul (Constantinople), several old churches built during the Ottoman rule, such as the Church of Virgin Mary Chriseleusa and the Church of St George. In the centre of Strovolos you can find Stavros Agios (Holy Cross), the spiritual symbol of the whole district.
Infrastructure
The district has a well developed transport infrastructure with many bus routes and road connections to the centre of the capital and other suburbs. For gourmets and lovers of natural products, there are regular farmers' markets where local farmers offer their freshest seasonal fruit and vegetables. For shoppers, the Mall of Cyprus is a large shopping centre nearby. There are also many shops, cafes and restaurants, from traditional tavernas to modern international cuisine.
Educational facilities
Due to its central location and access to various services and international education, Strovolos is popular with expats, especially families with children. There are several good international schools in Strovolos, including the famous English School, which was founded over a hundred years ago and is renowned for its high standards of education.
Health Services
Strovolos has a public medical centre, Strovolos Health Centre, as well as several very good private clinics: Aretaeio Hospital, American Medical Centre (AMC). There is also the Apollonion Private Hospital within easy reach of Strovolos. There is also the Ariti Rehabilitation Centre and the Nicosia Medical Centre which offers SYNLAB based consultations and tests.
Sports and outdoor activities
Strovolos is ideal for sports and outdoor activities. There is the Strovolos Municipal Swimming Pool, the Strovolos Sports Centre which has football pitches, basketball and volleyball courts and a running track. There are also several tennis and paintball courts, martial arts areas with karate, taekwondo and judo classes, and dance studios offering ballet, modern and traditional Greek dance. For those who love yoga and meditation, there are many centres with different focuses.
Parks and green areas
Strovolos has many green areas and parks, including the Acropolis Park, a pedestrian park and the Pedieos Trail. The pedestrian path of the same name is located on the banks of the river Pedieos and is 14 kilometres long. It is one of the most picturesque parks in Nicosia and is rich in flora and fauna: eucalyptus, indigenous pine and palm trees along the riverbank provide shade on hot days, local endemic birds can be seen in the treetops and ducks swim in the ponds. The park offers both walking and cycling trails, making it ideal for outdoor activities or leisurely strolls.
Culture
Art lovers will find a rich cultural life in Strovolos. There is the Municipal Theatre, which regularly hosts performances such as opera, ballet, plays and concerts. There is also a municipal symphony orchestra. Strovolos is the venue for various cultural festivals, including the annual Nicosia Book Festival and the annual Cactus Exhibition organised by the 'Association of Cactus Lovers'.
Acropolis Park is home to the authentic Acropolis Park Caves Exhibition Area, built inside natural limestone caves, which hosts regular exhibitions, lectures and performances.
Demography
Strovolos is one of the most extensive and densely populated areas of Nicosia. According to 2021 statistics, the population of Strovolos was 70,823. The area is popular with professionals, students and retirees. Expats from Greece, the UK, Russia and the Middle East are particularly numerous.
Real Estate
The property market in Strovolos offers a wide range of villas, houses and apartments. From small cosy studios to spacious apartments and penthouses. More and more new developments are being built every year with all the modern amenities. Although densely populated, it is a fairly safe and prestigious area. Property prices in Strovolos tend to be a little higher than in more remote parts of the capital. For the most part, Strovolos is a mix of mid-range and high-end properties, with many modern apartments and villas.
Atmosphere
Strovolos prides itself on being a close-knit community, ideal for both young professionals and families with children. It is the perfect combination of cosmopolitan atmosphere and tradition. It is quiet and safe, yet lively with many cultural events, festivals and farmers' markets. Strovolos is perfect for those who want to live close to the city centre, but away from the hustle and bustle.
Expat Life
The expat community in Strovolos is very active and friendly, which helps newcomers to settle in quickly and easily. There are regular events organised for expats and locals to socialise, which helps to make new and useful acquaintances and connections.
Ayios Dometios
Geography
Agios Dometios is located three kilometres west of the centre of Nicosia and covers an area of 12 km2 at an altitude of 160 metres. Two tributaries of the Pedieos River, the Gjinar and the Siemma, flow through the area.
History
The first small settlements in the area date back to ancient times, but the first mention of the name itself dates back to the reign of the Lusignans (1191 - 1489). The settlement was named in honour of Saint Dometius, who came from Persia in the 4th century AD. In the 20th century the neighbourhood of Ayios Dometios expanded rapidly and its population grew. However, as a result of the 1974 conflict, the neighbourhood was divided in two. Three-quarters of its territory is now in the Turkish-occupied northern part of the island. Here is one of the few and busiest crossing points across the dividing line, opened in May 2004. Every day, hundreds and sometimes thousands of vehicles cross the border at the Ayios Dometios crossing.
As a result of the events of 1974, a large number of Greek Cypriot refugees from the occupied part of the island fled to the southern part, most of them taking refuge in the Ayios Pavlos area, where there is a church dedicated to the Apostle Paul.
Churches and temples
There are several interesting churches in the area of Ayios Dometios. The main church, dedicated to the patron saint of the area, St Dometios, was built in the 17th century. Located on a small hill, it is truly an architectural gem in this part of Nicosia. There is also a beautiful church in honour of St George, built in 1902 in the traditional Byzantine style of a basilica with many rounded arches.
Parks and green areas
There are four parks in Ayios Domedios. The main one, the Missing Persons Park, is dedicated to all those who disappeared without a trace during the Turkish invasion of 1974. The park is located opposite the former Coca-Cola factory in the centre of the district. Not far from the pass is the Ayios Domedios Park. And near the high school is Ayios Pavlos Park, as well as the brand new National Guard Park, dedicated to the defenders of the homeland.
Educational facilities
There is a secondary school and three primary schools in the area, one of which is opposite the church of Agios Dometios. Built during the British occupation, it is the oldest of the three. Ayios Dometios is close to the American International School of Cyprus and the American Academy Nicosia.
Sports and outdoor activities
The municipality has two main stadiums where local teams play their games. Next to the first primary school there is a gravel football stadium with a capacity of about one thousand fans. The second stadium, the community stadium/basketball arena, is located next to the third public school and holds about 1,500 fans. It has recently received a new hardwood floor. It hosts basketball, handball and indoor football matches and competitions.
It is also home to the capital's only racecourse, the Nicosia Race Club.
Culture
The municipality hosts the annual Agios Dometios festival, which celebrates local culture and traditions with music, dance and various performances. The festival attracts both locals and tourists, helping them to discover the rich heritage of the district. The Agios Dometios Town Hall is the venue for many cultural and social events.
Healthcare
Ayios Dometios has many pharmacies and medical facilities and is within easy reach of the American Medical Centre and Nicosia General Hospital.
Transport Infrastructure
The area is very well connected to the city centre and has a well developed public transport system. There are many shops and restaurants, both local and international. There are also many children's playgrounds and family cafes, creating a pleasant environment for families with children.
Demography
According to the 2021 statistics, the population of the district was 12,906. The demographics of the area are quite diverse. Historically, the majority of the population is Greek Cypriot, but there is also a large percentage of Pontian Greeks, as well as people from the former Soviet Union and Armenians. As a result, there are many Russian grocery stores and Armenian restaurants. Recently, there have been more students and expats from Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the UN.
Real Estate
The property market in Ayios Dometios offers a variety of houses and apartments to suit all tastes and budgets. The special feature of this area is that property prices here are more affordable than in the centre of the capital or other areas such as Strovolos and Aglandja.
Atmosphere
In general, Ayios Dometios is a colourful central area that is divided into two parts - the old part, with houses dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and the new part, which combines residential and commercial developments. Here the memory of national heroes lives on, both in the hearts of the people and in the surrounding landscape. Expats love this area for its convenient location and proximity to the centre, well-developed infrastructure, easy transport links to the centre of the capital and other suburbs, as well as to the northern part of the island. It's also a relatively safe area with no hustle and bustle, and is particularly convenient for families with children due to its proximity to international schools.
Expat life
The expat community here is very active online. In particular, there are many groups on Facebook and Meetup that organise regular meet-ups.
Engomi
Geography
The Engomi area is located in the heart of Nicosia, three kilometres southwest of the city centre, between two rivers: the Pedieos to the east and the Klimos to the west. It covers an area of about 9.5 km2.
History
The Engomi neighbourhood was founded during the Venetian occupation in 1567. According to historical records, the Venetians decided to destroy the buildings and settlements outside the Louisiana Walls surrounding Nicosia in order to build new fortifications. The inhabitants were forced to move to the southwest and established a settlement that later became the Engomi neighbourhood. Under Ottoman rule, it remained a small rural settlement whose inhabitants were engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry. Silk was produced in Engomi and local women were engaged in handicrafts.
Engomi's fertile land attracted more and more settlers, especially after the events of 1974, and in the following decades the area developed rapidly through industrialisation and its population continued to grow. Today, Engomi is one of the most prestigious, well-developed and cosmopolitan areas of Nicosia.
Churches and temples
Of particular interest is the medieval monastery of Panagia Makedonitissa (Holy Monastery of Panagia Makedonitissa), built in the 16th century. Later, in the 19th century, it ceased to exist as a monastery and now functions only as a church. According to one version, the name Makedonitissa comes from the local name for a variety of parsley, which is called 'makedonision' here.
Also of note is the farmstead of the Kykkos Monastery, the richest and most luxurious monastery in Cyprus. It is located opposite the Russian Embassy and covers an area of about 10 hectares with a park, manicured lawns, trees and shrubs, orange and olive groves. The park was laid out by the Abbot of the monastery, Father Gerasimos, during the British rule in 1890. Inside the monastery is the ancient church of St Procopius.
Local Infrastructure
Engomi is often referred to as the 'Embassy Municipality' as it is home to the consulates of many countries: Russia, USA, China, Italy, Ukraine, which is very convenient for expats living there. Engomi's transport system is also very well developed. Near Makario Stadium is one of the main bus stations in Nicosia, from where you can travel anywhere in the city or to the surrounding villages. The road infrastructure allows easy access to the city centre.
Engomi has many cafes, shops, boutiques and restaurants. On the main street is the Engomi Mall, a very convenient and popular shopping location for expats. Much has been done in recent years to improve the cycling infrastructure in Engomi. Of particular note is the cycle path linking the University of Cyprus with the European University.
Educational Institutions
The municipality of Engomi is home to the University of Nicosia, the European University Cyprus and the Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, which was established in 2012 and offers masters and doctoral programmes in medical and biomedical sciences. There are also five primary schools, four secondary schools and a large number of public and private kindergartens, including a private Montessori kindergarten. There is also an educational centre for the deaf in Engomi.
Sport and activities
The Makareio Stadium & Sports Centre, built in 1978, has a capacity of 15.9 thousand. There are also two indoor multipurpose stadiums, Lefkotheon and Eleftheria. Engomi has a National Tennis Centre and a National Archery Centre. ETHA Basketball Club, whose players have won the Cyprus League for the last two years.
Parks and green areas
In recent years a number of parks and green areas have been created in Engomi. There are currently around 25 in the area, many with fountains, amphitheatres and playgrounds.
One of the largest and most picturesque parks is Engomi Park, which covers 23.4 acres and is located on the grounds of the Kikka Monastery sub-campus. It is a great place for long walks where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and landscaping in the heart of the city.
Healthcare
The Engomi community has been involved in the establishment of the Engomi Health Centre, which offers free consultations to residents. It employs 5 highly qualified specialists. There are also many good private clinics and medical centres: Eye Clinic, Apolloneion Hospital, AIMC Clinic and many others.
Culture
The Municipality of Engomi is very active in the cultural life of the district, trying to develop a love for the arts among its inhabitants, as well as helping them to participate in various local and international competitions. This has led to the creation of a municipal choir, an orchestra, a photography club and a film club. The municipal library, which was built a few years ago, has an extensive collection of 6,000 volumes on subjects ranging from world history, social sciences, philosophy and religion to art and literature for different age groups. This collection is growing every year.
Throughout the year, Engomi Mall, the main shopping centre, hosts various themed events for all ages. Cyprus Comic Con - a community of pop culture and anime enthusiasts - regularly holds events at Engomi: performances, exhibitions, video game tournaments and film festivals.
Demography
In 2021, the population of Engomi was approximately 20,504. Of these: 16,019 are Cypriots, 2,227 are EU citizens and 2,151 are third country nationals. In addition, a very large number of expats live here temporarily, working on contract. These include employees of universities, diplomatic missions and various organisations such as the UN, as well as a large number of foreign students.
Real Estate
Engomi is one of the most expensive and prestigious areas of Nicosia, with property prices slightly higher than in other areas. It is home to many diplomats, professionals and high-income locals. Here you will find both spacious villas and apartments of the highest quality, as well as mid-range properties.
Atmosphere
Due to the large number of students and young professionals living here, Engomi is a very dynamic and youthful neighbourhood, yet prestigious with all the amenities of modern city life. It perfectly combines the vibrancy of the commercial area with the relaxation and tranquillity of the quiet streets of a 'bedroom community'.
Expat life
Engomi's expat community is extremely diverse, allowing expatriates to feel comfortable and settle in quickly. The community is very active and organises regular meetings and events. You can join the Nicosia expats Facebook group to find expats in your area and make new connections and contacts, and follow the Events in Ekgomi, Nicosia Cyprus Facebook page to keep up to date with interesting events.
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