Şaban Paşa Sokak, Samanbahçe, a social housing project from the early part of the 20th century, North Nicosia, Northern Cyprus
Originally, Samanbahçe or "straw field" is thought to have been one of several gardens used for growing fruits and vegetables for the residents of the Walled City of Nicosia. As the demands for housing grew, Samanbahçe was developed into a social housing complex. Although the exact date is not known, records show that by 1894, Samanbahçe was partially built and functioning as social housing. Construction was done in phases and was completed in 1955. The Samanbahçe area covers about 2000 square metres, and is located on the northern edge of the walled city of Nicosia. It is a unique neighbourhood with very defined geometric narrow roads. The units are of strong mud-brick construction with red tile roofs. Samanbahçe was the first known social housing to have been constructed in Cyprus, and consists of 72 separate units. Being the oldest known social housing estate in Nicosia, Samanbahçe has been transformed into a charming traditional neighbourhood. A large fountain is located in the centre of the estate, and a large open space, used for a children's playground, can be found in the northern corner. Currently 153 low-income residents are living in the Samanbahçe area. The area is very well-ordered and is really beautifully enhanced by the shrubs and flowers that the residents have planted in pots and tend with great care outside the doors of their properties. A plan of restoration works was funded by the European Union, through the Partnership for the Future Programme, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme in collaboration with the Nicosia (Lefkoşa) Master Plan. Restoration took place between September 2003 and April 2004. The project included upgrading of the facades, roofs, existing infrastructure and landscaping of the area, as well as pedestrianisation of public and semi-private open spaces for public works.
Size: 5120px × 3413px
Location: Samanbahçe, North Nicosia, Northern Cyprus
Photo credit: © will Perrett / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No
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