The House of Hadjigeorgakis Kornesios

Located within the Venetian Walls of Nicosia's old city, the manor of Hadjigeorgakis Kornesios now houses the Cyprus Ethnological Museum, which opened to the public in the late 20th century. The manor's history, however, dates back to the late 18th century when it served as the residence of Hadjigeorgakis Kornesios, who held the esteemed title of Dragoman (interpreter) for approximately three decades. This role bestowed significant political influence as it acted as the official intermediary between the populace and the Ottoman government.

The mansion stands as a fine example of Ottoman-period architecture and remains one of the few houses from that era to have been continually inhabited and maintained since its construction. This two-story stone-built structure consists of three sections surrounding the central courtyard. An intriguing architectural feature of the monument is the presence of pointed arches encompassing the interior courtyard. Notably, on the ground floor, there is a traditional Turkish spa (hamam) comprising three rooms.

Exploring the interior of the house unveils the lives of its former residents, their lifestyle, and offers insights into the city's history. The formal hall, which once served as a reception area for guests, still exudes its original charm with an exceptional series of intricately decorated and gilded wooden wall paneling. The hall also hosts a historical collection of exhibits amassed during the Ottoman and British periods, while another room houses the family's religious relics. Additionally, the east wing of the mansion displays an interesting collection of furniture.

This captivating site transports visitors back to 18th-century Nicosia, offering glimpses of its rich history, authentic period architecture, and a spectacular array of collections.