Historic Features To Be Preserved
The redevelopment plans call for preserving mature planting, including palms and cacti, and protecting existing root systems. Six ponds with fountains, water lilies and geese will be restored, along with bird cages for pheasants and geese, including the historic circular metal cage and specialised nesting structures.
Existing stone structures and steps will remain, while materials such as Karystos stone will be replaced with authentic equivalents. The current bicycle path and four busts, including those of Kostis Palamas, Mahatma Gandhi, Vladimir Kafkaridis and Yuri Gagarin, will also be preserved.
Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram
Perimeter fencing will be completed to allow the garden to operate under controlled opening hours.
Existing Buildings To Be Converted
The preserved Nursery Building will be restored as a venue for events, exhibitions and community activities. The former gardeners’ building, known as the Refreshment Room, will become a 73-square-metre snack bar with outdoor seating and views toward the children’s playground.
Sanitary facilities will be redesigned to provide modern amenities and full accessibility for people with disabilities.
New Facilities And Infrastructure
The existing playground will be fully upgraded, with new equipment and a fenced area for children aged 2 to 12. Plans include natural materials, inclusive equipment for children with disabilities and seating for parents.
New sanitary facilities, storage and staff offices will be added, alongside smart lighting and network infrastructure. A designated location will also be reserved for a future artwork honouring Polish composer and pianist Frédéric Chopin.
Timeline And Competition Prizes
Design proposals must be submitted by Nov. 10, 2026, with results and awards scheduled for Dec. 1. The design and permitting phase is expected to take another nine to 12 months, with construction scheduled for completion by the end of 2028.
A seven-member panel chaired by civil engineer Koula Ioannou will evaluate the proposals. The panel includes architects and urban planners from the municipality, ETEK and the Cyprus Architects Association.
The first prize is €20,000 and includes the commission for the final design and project supervision. The second and third prizes are €15,000 and €12,000, respectively, while up to three honourable mentions will receive €3,000 each.
Municipal Garden To Connect With Wider City Projects
The Municipality of Nicosia is developing the garden alongside the reconstruction of the Municipal Theatre, the new Archaeological Museum, the pedestrian and cycling route around the city walls and the planned upgrade of Pedieos Linear Park.
The project will combine restoration of historic features with new facilities, including an upgraded playground, accessible amenities and spaces for cultural and community activities.
