Zaha Hadid Architects’ Eleftheria Square in Nicosia, Cyprus has been inaugurated. The project intends to be the city's primary gathering space, establishing new connections to unite a divided capital. 

Eleftheria Square is located near the center of Nicosia, adjacent to the centuries-old Venetian Walls and the dry moat that encircles the city. ZHA envisioned the project as the initial phase of a much larger urban plan that could be a catalyst for the reunification of the capital. The design provides unobstructed views of the Venetian Walls, highlighting the significance of the structures as an integral part of Nicosia’s identity. The dry moat was also opened for public use.

Through the transformation of previously inaccessible areas of the moat with the addition of new civic plazas, gardens, and palm-lined promenades, the moat can act as a “green belt” around the city. The design elevates the topography of the moat to create an upper-level bridge that meets the surrounding streets, which forms connections to the city’s urban fabric.

Open joints between the moat’s granite slabs create a passive rainwater drainage system that allows the newly introduced trees to balance groundwater levels and reduce erosion of the medieval walls’ foundations. 

Eleftheria Square has been designed to host festivals and public events. Its upper-level bridge and supporting columns are made of concrete with the base of each column morphing into seating. 

The redevelopment of the square required extensive archaeological excavations, along with work to repair and protect the Venetian Walls. The project also includes two cafes and a new underground parking lot.