Ömeriye Hamam
Ömeriye Hamam (lit. 'Ömeriye Bath') in Nicosia, Cyprus is a 14th-century building restored to operate once again as a hamam. Dating back to the period of French rule and located in the heart of Nicosia's old town is Hamam Omerye. The bath was closed in 2012 for renovation but is now open again as an active Turkish bath and beauty spa.
History of Ömeriye Hamam
The site's history dates back to the 14th century, when it stood as an Augustinian church of St. Mary. Stone-built, with small domes, it is chronologically placed at around the time of Frankish and Venetian rule, approximately the same time that the city acquired its Venetian Walls. In 1571, Mustapha Pasha converted the church into a mosque, believing that this particular spot is where the prophet Omer rested during his visit to Nicosia.
Most of the original building was destroyed by Ottoman artillery, although the door of the main entrance still belongs to the 14th century Lusignan building, whilst remains of a later Renaissance phase can be seen at the north-eastern side of the monument. In 2003, the [EU] funded a bi-communal UNDP/UNOPS project, "Partnership for the Future", in collaboration with Nicosia Municipality and Nicosia Master Plan, to restore the Omerye Bath.
Spa and wellness
The hamam is still in use today and after its recent restoration project, it has become a favourite place for relaxation in Nicosia. In 2006 it received the Europa Nostra prize for the Conservation of Architectural Heritage.