Nicosia is the only divided capital city in theworld. It has a northern (Turkish) section and a southern (Cypriot) section. These sections are divided by the "Green Line". It is ademilitarized zone created by theUnited Nations. Nicosia (southern part) is the capital of the Republic of Cyprus while northern part is capital of theTurkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), a de facto state only recognized by Turkey.
The city became the island's capital around the10th century. It had grown in importance because of threats to thecoastal citiesPaphos andSalamis. These threats made many people leave the coast of the island and move to Lefkosia in the center of the island.
TheBritish Empire took control of the island in 1878. Nicosia was the capital of the new Britishcolony.
In early 1974, a coup d'état instigated by theGreek junta overthrew the legal government and took control. Shortly afterwardsTurkey invaded the island occupying a large part, with excuse that Turkish Cypriot people's safety was threatened. Because of this, Cyprus and the city of Nicosia are divided since. Cyprus with its legal government is part of the European Union. The northern area, controlled by Turkish Cypriots, exists as a unilaterally proclaimed "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" recognized only by Turkey.
