Evaluating Influences of the Buffer Zone to the Immediate Context of Nicosia Walled City Identity

City identity is the characteristics that unify one place or city from the others. As it’s been perceived lately, there is an issue of division in many cities. The walled city of Nicosia is suffering from the establishment of the buffer zone that influences the environmental and social identity of the City. Nicosia is the capital city of Cyprus Island. It is the last divided capital in Europe. This study is aimed to evaluate the influences of the buffer zone on the immediate context identity in the Northern part. Within this study, the qualitative analysis method has been used. Six zones within the walled city, are Kafesli (residential), Haydarpasa (mixed use), Selimiye (mixed use), Iplikpazari and korkutefendi (commercial), Karamanzade (mixed use), and finally, Arabahmet (residential) have been chosen to conduct the study. Physical analysis was carried out at the site for the most unique buildings, streets, squares, and parks if available within the zones as well an interview survey of 15 participants from each zone have been done. The findings indicate that the buffer zone has a negative influence on the immediate context. In general, buildings are in poor condition and the physical environments are unmaintained. On the other hand, especially the parts which are close to the Lokmacı Gate; which is a passage between Northern and Southern parts, are in better condition. The traditional buildings are generally used for commercial activities or mix-uses. The opening of the Lokmacı Gate brought dynamic energy to the close distance. The buildings were renewed and re-functioned such as cafés, bars, restaurants, commercial uses, etc. These areas attract people during the day and nighttime activities.