One of the most popular tourist attractions in the Northern part of Nicosia is the mosque Haidar Pasha, which was once the Cathedral of St. Catherine. This building was built in the late XIV century, and became the second, after Hagia Sophia, the largest Gothic Church in the city. After some time, the Cathedral was enlarged and converted into a monastery. According to some scholars, the construction is planned to be completed, as some of the building look unfinished. For example, in the Northern part of the temple there is a room, which, as expected, was to become the basis for a never-built tower.

In General, the Cathedral is a fine example of medieval Gothic architecture and houses many geometric details and plant motifs, narrow Windows and arches. The building has three entrances, which are decorated with exquisite carvings, and the largest of them are decorated with stone roses, dragons, and the traditional Gothic style gargoyles.

After the capture of the island by Turkish troops in 1570 Cyprus began the mass destruction of Christian churches. In most cases, they simply were converted into mosques. That's what happened with the Cathedral of St. Catherine. In 1571 he was turned into a mosque and was named Haidar Pasha in honor of one of the military commanders who distinguished themselves during the hostilities. Then to the temple was a decent high minaret.

At the end of the last century, the Cathedral was fully restored and opened to visitors as an exhibition hall. Entry is free.