The administrative centre of Cyprus has been within the walled city of
Nicosia from Lusignan times until the end of British rule. When the Ottomans took over the island,
they used the existing buildings for their own use. The area round
Sarayonu Square became the most important part of the walled city
because all government offices were located here.
The Ottoman governor's mansion was formerly a Lusignan and
Venetian palace. In 1901, the British destroyed this 700 year-old
complex with its fine apartments, arcaded courtyard and throne hall
in order to build the law courts and post office.
The main law courts building is rectangular in shape, with an
internal courtyard. Several buildings are attached to the main
structure, while others stand separately, making for a sizable
complex which is surrounded by a low sandstone wall with iron
railings. On the southeast corner of this wall is the coat of arms
of the British empire.
The only remaining evidence of the original Lusignan palace is a
sandstone Gothic window, which was located over the main entrance to
the palace. Today, this is protected and exhibited at the Lapidary
Museum.
