Its population is 186,000. It houses the main government offices as well as the headquarters of many major local and international companies. The Presidential Palace is in Nicosia which is a busy commercial centre today. Nicosia is a trading center for the surrounding Mesaoria Plain, where wheat, olives, almonds, and fruits are grown.
Light industries manufacture machine tools, textiles, tobacco products, pottery, and leather goods.
Tourism is important. Nicosia is also the archepiscopal seat of the autonomous Church of Cyprus. The famous Famagusta Gate still stands today, proudly protecting the still ancient town within from the modern city without. Through the Gate lies Laiki Geitonia, an old section which has been lovingly restored. Wend your way through narrow stone streets where crimson flowers cascade from window pots and the aroma of traditional baking wafts through open doorways.