In 400 years of Turkish reign, Nicosia is the capital and it has gained the classical Turkish character. It has several architectural works of art. Especially, the building complex which is nearby to the Selimiye Mosque attracts the visitor’s attentions. This buildings complex was started to be constructed in 1929, by Mr. Mehmet Munir, the Evkaf Administrator. There are three dwellings in this complex, which have two storey plans and are constructed by sand stones. In the beginning, it was used as Cyprus Turkish High School until it moved to its present place in Kyrenia Gate. In following years it was used as a military barracks. Later, it was again adapted as an educational centre, by the transportation of Bayraktar College to here. At present, it is being used as a state complex to improve the tourism facilities among the northern part of Cyprus. These alterations and restoration are made with the similar features to suit original pattern of this complex to protect its historical value.
Bedesten is a Gothic style church from the 14th century. It is situated at the southern part of Selimiye Mosque. During the Venetian period, it was used as a church in the name of St. Nicholas. In the following times, it was used as a Metropolis by Orthodox community. In the Ottoman period, some changes were made and it started to serve as a covered market and a grain depot. In 1573, the name of the building was changed as ‘Bedesten’.
It is one of two rooms, which were constructed at the eastern part of Bedesten adjacent to the building, in the period of British Rule. There are several tombstones and architectural antiques, which were brought to this museum from Omerge mosque and the other places. In addition, it has a wooden ceiling from the Ottoman period.