Unique Historical Site of Northern Cyprus

Located in the historic İplik Pazarı-Korkut Efendi neighborhood of North Nicosia, Büyük Hamam offers an in-depth journey into the rich history of Cyprus. This unique structure, which has its roots in the Lusignan period, was built between 1306-1309 as the Lusignan Church of St. George of the Latins. However, it has witnessed various events throughout its history. On November 10, 1330, more than 3,000 people lost their lives and the baths were flooded during the great floods that affected Nicosia. Even today, the flood level and the point of impact can be seen, marked with a Lusignan nail. Another important event in the history of the church was the assassination attempt on King Peter I of Cyprus on January 17, 1369.

During the Ottoman period, between 1571 and 1590, the Büyük Hamam was rebuilt as a Turkish bath. It belonged to the Lala Mustafa Pasha foundation and under Ottoman rule it became a popular social center for men and women to use at separate times.

Today, Büyük Hamam retains its historical and cultural significance thanks to restoration work carried out in 2007-2008 with the support of UNDP and USAID. These renovations have brought out the original features of the baths and provided visitors with a unique historical and cultural experience.

One of the landmarks of Northern Cyprus, Büyük Hamam is not only a historical building, but also a place to experience a unique Turkish bath. Visitors are taken on a journey where they can feel the history of Cyprus and relax in the peaceful atmosphere of the hammam.

ARCHITECTURAL STRUCTURE

The bath was built as a single storey of cut stone. It has Ottoman bath architecture. It consists of three separate sections that give guests the feeling of entering a historical adventure.