Peace Bench

This sign points to a bench by the border control on Ledra Street, a pedestrian crossing through the middle of Nicosia, Cyprus. Above the bench is a framed mosaic that reads “peace”.

Nicosia is the last divided capital in Europe, split between the northern Turkish Cypriot and southern Greek Cypriot communities. Following the war, the division of the island became permanent in 1974. Strict border controls remained in place until 2003. Today, there are nine checkpoints across the island.

Cyprus has a vast and complicated history. The island was administered by Britain from 1878 until it gained independence as a republic in 1960. British colonial rule historically managed ethnic divisions by institutionalising separation between communities, which later contributed to instability and conflict. To this day, the United Nations Peacekeeping Force patrols and manages the “buffer zone”.

There are many remnants of British colonialism across the island. Most prominently, the UK maintains two Sovereign Base Areas, Akrotiri and Dhekelia. Strategically located close to the Middle East, the bases were also targeted by Iranian missiles earlier in 2026.

Public infrastructure on the island is heavily influenced by Britain. The motorway signage immediately recalls that of the UK. Cypriots drive on the left, and even the electrical sockets are the familiar three-pronged British type.

For many people, these continuing ties to Britain are complicated and contradictory.

“Peace” Bench is presented here as one of the British brown “historical attraction” motorway signs. It highlights the impacts of colonialism that can disappear behind the familiar language of tourism and heritage.