THE HISTORIC GSP CLOCK
A NEW LEISURE SPACE FOR NICOSIA
LANDSCAPED GARDENS
A NEW MODERN APPROACH
REVITALISING NICOSIA'S CITY CENTRE
The new urban park that has transformed the old GSP stadium site into a new public green space is expected to help revitalise Nicosia’s city centre. The project, co-funded by the European Union, the state budget, and the Nicosia Municipality, has also delivered several commercial units within its grounds. This makes it an attractive prospect for business, as well as leisure. The park has already begun to breathe new life into the area by attracting several daily visitors.
The park’s overall design features a recessed centre and elevated edges, specifically designed to reduce traffic noise. Its water feature is specifically designed to improve the microclimate within its grounds and its green spaces provide several modern amenities. These include a large public plaza and an underground parking facility with electric vehicle charging stations.
The park connects to other areas of the city via a transit hub. These include both Eleftheria and Solomon Squares. The restored iconic stadium clock stands by one of the entrances, adding historical context to the grounds that once hosted several international football teams.
A HISTORIC SITE
Situated in the Strovolos area of the Nicosia district, the old historic stadium was home to the three biggest football clubs of Nicosia. APOEL, Olympiakos, and Omonia all played their home matches there. With a capacity of just under 23,000, it was also the home stadium of the Cyprus national football team. Although small by international standards, the stadium was the largest in Cyprus at the time. During its tenure it hosted several memorable football matches, some of which are still spoken of today.
THE OLD STADIUM CLOCK
The overall design concept of the new venue pays homage to the old stadium. It incorporating stadium-like structures within its design and also features the iconic stadium clock. This adds nostalgia to its modernity and recognises the site’s sporting history.
NEW FACILITIES
Designed with easy access for the public in mind, the space serves as an attractive public hub that intends to remain accessible for public leisure activities. Co-funded by the European Union, the new space has multiple event halls that have the capacity to host thousands of visitors. The site also features a new Citizen Service Centre, which is located in the semi-basement of the main building. Other additions include a new outdoor amphitheatre with a giant screen, a multi-purpose hall, a waterfall, restaurants, cafes, and several retail outlets. The new underground car parks will have a capacity for over 500 car spaces and will include electric charging stations for electric cars.
NEW TRANSPORT LINKS
A new pedestrianised road, linking the Municipal Theatre area to the new Cyprus Museum, through the unified moat in Eleftherias Square has also been installed. This new connection will enhance mobility and provide easier access to both the old GSP site and the upgraded shopping centre. The Municipality of Nicosia has also partnered with Cyprus Public Transport to introduce minibuses that will transport visitors from the new site to the city’s historic centre. This is hoped to ease traffic congestion and encourage the use of public transportation.
GREEN SPACES
The green areas of the development are further enhanced by new trees. These have been planted in droves, enhancing the park’s green areas.
A NEW MODERN EVENTS VENUE
This new modern leisure space is part of a larger cultural hub that includes two elevated green areas surrounding the perimeter. The redevelopment aims to enhance Nicosia’s sustainability and bring new life to the area. Fully embraced by both residents and visitors alike, the new space serves as a key urban renewal initiative. This redevelopment has seen the old stadium transformed into a new green, vibrant space in the heart of the city. The new events venue that took just over four years to complete, cost more than €27 million.
NEW MODERN GROUNDS
Facts
🌳 The brand-new, modern recreational area is the largest public space in the City of Nicosia
🌳 The new park is located at the former site of the old GSP stadium, between Grigori Afxentiou, Evagorou, and Vasileos Pavlou streets
Features
🌳 Illuminated cycling and walking paths for night-time perusal.
🌳 A 550-space two-level underground parking lot with EV charging stations
🌳 An open-air amphitheatre
🌳 A café and various restaurants
🌳 An exhibition gallery
🌳 Recreational areas that include two man-made hills
🌳 A historic clock that honours the beloved former football stadium
