Northern Cyprus has taken a bold step into the digital age. Led by Nicosia Turkish Municipality, in collaboration with European University of Lefke and CyTech Software Group, the “Virtual Nicosia Exhibition” has officially opened in the metaverse, marking a new era for the island’s cultural promotion.
Hosted on the “Digital Cyprus Space” platform, the exhibition allows visitors to explore Nicosia’s historic and cultural landmarks in stunning 3D. Through a virtual reality headset or computer screen, users can wander through iconic locations such as Büyük Han, Selimiye Mosque, and Arasta Streets, experiencing the city’s rich atmosphere from anywhere in the world.
The online launch event took place on November 8, 2025, attracting hundreds of participants from Northern Cyprus and abroad. During his speech, the Mayor of Nicosia emphasized the cultural importance of the project, stating:
“This initiative is not just a technological innovation it is the preservation of Cypriot culture in the digital age.”
Developed over eight months, the project involved students from the European University of Lefke’s New Media Department, who recreated Nicosia’s key sites using advanced 3D scanning technology. The result is an immersive virtual environment that mirrors the real city, allowing for an interactive and educational experience.
The project aims to introduce Northern Cyprus’s cultural and historical heritage to a global audience. Future plans include expanding the metaverse experience to include Kyrenia and Famagusta, transforming the entire island into a virtual cultural destination.Experts suggest that such digital projects not only help preserve heritage but also strengthen the island’s tourism and digital economy. Northern Cyprus is proving that innovation and culture can thrive hand in hand in the virtual world.
— Written by Yağmur Kayacan
