Did you know..
Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily and Sardinia. The island is located in the north-eastern corner of the Mediterranean Sea
Although geographically small, the island has a variety of landscapes ranging from sandy beaches, rocky bays and impressive coastal cliffs, to rolling hills and green, to majestic forests in the Troodos Mountains. Troodos Mountains highst point is 1,952 mt.
Cyprus is an independent sovereign Republic and a member of the European Union since 1 May 2004 and adopted the Euro in 2008
The island has a rich dramatic history which can be traced back over nine thousand years - coveted over the centuries, Cyprus has been invaded and claimed by a fascinating mixture of civilizations from near and far, all of which have left their culture and shaped its character
The earliest archaeological sites which can be visited date back to the Neolithic Age
There are also many UNESCO-listed archaeological sites from the Ancient Greek and the Roman periods
The Troodos Mountains are nestled with churches and monasteries – nine are included on the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites
Castles and Gothic Cathedrals reflect the passing of the Crusaders and the Frankish Lusignans who owned Medieval Cyprus
Splendid Venetian walls still fortify the old town centre of Nicosia
Mosques and latticed balconies remain in the old town quarters from the long Ottoman period
The extensive local use of the English language points to the British sovereignty of the island till its independence in 1960
The island is also steeped in mythology and legends. Known as the birthplace of Aphrodite, Ancient Greek goddess of Love & Beauty, pilgrims from all over the ancient world would visit the island to participate in the annual festival of her cult.
Christianity flourished following the Missionary journey of Saints Paul and Barnabas to the island in 45AD
With such a historic and legendary background it is hardly surprising that Cyprus has developed a character which is quite unique and worth discovering!