The official name of Cyprus at present. What country is Cyprus? Ayia Napa is a resort town in the eastern part of Cyprus
I love the sea and Europe! I was in Cyprus 10 times, in awe of Mallorca and the islands.
The resort island state is located in the warm Mediterranean Sea (its eastern part). Millions of guests come here from all over the world. Many inquisitive guests of the legendary places will be interested to know where Cyprus is located and in which country?
Cyprus owes its popularity among tourists to favorable geographical location and wonderful climate.
But these advantages were the culprits of many events that influenced the geopolitical situation in the country.
Delicious piece of the Mediterranean
Cyprus is located at the crossroads of the sea routes of three major continents. It has always been an object of attention, a strategic target for Europe, Asia and Africa. The conquerors of the island rapidly succeeded each other. What country was not Cyprus. Cypriots managed to be under the control of the Assyrians, Turks, Romans, Greeks, Persians, Egyptians, British. Cyprus was part of:
- Byzantium (4th century BC).
- Venice (XII century).
- Ottoman Empire (1571-1879).
The island has belonged to Great Britain since 1879. Cyprus was the last British colony (1925-1960). The modern republic has retained a lot from the time of British colonization: left-hand traffic, legislation, English has become extremely popular.
You can find the island on the map here.
Cyprus modern
Nissi beach in Cyprus In 1959, the country gained sovereignty. This decision was made at the negotiations of three countries: Turkey, Great Britain and Greece. In 1960, the island adopts a constitution and becomes a presidential republic.
The Constitution of the 60th year states that Cyprus is a state with guaranteed observance of the principle of equality of power between the two Cypriot national communities (Greek and Turkish).
A representative of the Greek Cypriots must become the President of the Republic, and a Turkish Cypriot must become the Vice-President. Deputies were also required to be elected from two national groups. But since 1963, the Turks have ceased to take part in the Legislative Assembly.
According to the legendary legend, Cyprus is an island of happiness, because it was here that the goddess of tenderness and love Aphrodite appeared to people from the sea foam. But, unfortunately, modern Cypriot history is far from perfect. Here reigns irreconcilable enmity between the two national clans.
military coups
The aggravated armed clashes led to the deployment of UN troops to the island (1964). 10 years later, Greek Cypriot extremists, with the support of the Athenian government, carried out a coup d'état. The legitimately elected President Makarios was overthrown, and Cyprus was reunited with Greece. In these turbulent years, the country is under the influence of the junta.
A week later, the Turkish authorities sent a military contingent to the island, hiding behind the need to protect the Turkish Cypriots. More than 7,000 people died as a result of armed clashes, and about 300,000 fled the island with refugee status. Soon the Turkish community occupied almost half of the entire territory. 
At this time, Cyprus irretrievably lost many of the most valuable relics - cultural values were taken out of their historical homeland.
Soon the creation of the Cypriot Federative State of Turkey was announced to the world community. And on November 1, 1983, the world learned about the emergence of the Northern Turkish Republic of Cyprus.
Separation problem insular territory applies to modern times, it is of great concern to all Cypriots.
Who owns the republic
Which country does Cyprus belong to today? Now the island is split into two independent parts - Turkish (located in the north) and Greek ( southern places) ethnic communities.
Greek Southern Cyprus
Greek Cypriots make up about 77% of the total island population. It is here that tourists come to enjoy an excellent holiday. The southern territory has the status of an independent state. Officially, it is called the "Republic of Cyprus". The Greek community professes Orthodoxy.
- Christianity originated in this country over 2,000 years ago. According to the conclusions of historians, it was here that the world's first state of Christians appeared.
The south of the island part was admitted to the European Union (May 2004). Southern Cypriots call the northern regions "occupied territory".
Turkish Northern Cyprus
Officially, the island (its northern part), mastered by the Turks, is called the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" (TRNC). The Turkish Cypriots living here profess Islam. Many mosques were built in the northern regions (most of them were converted from Christian churches).
Despite numerous claims that lawlessness reigns in the TRNC, these places are safe and open to tourists. What person does not like to relax! Northern resorts are no different from the southern ones and even surpass them.
territory of northern Cyprus Advice. If you decide to relax in the north of Cyprus, pay attention to the best resorts in these places. These are the cities of Dipkarpas, Famagusta and Kyrenia. Turkish Cypriots are known for their warm hospitality.
buffer zone
So, the island is officially divided into two parts. Between them is an artificially created buffer zone. It is also called the "Green Line". The UN contingent is patrolling the dividing territory. The line passes through the island through the Cypriot capital Nicosia from Morphou to Famagusta (Gazimagusta). Both cities belong to Northern Cyprus.
Is the island part of Greece?
The republic has always had close ties with neighboring Greece. But the Cypriot territory is not under Greek jurisdiction and has no control from the Greek government. During the time of the largest financial crisis in Greece, its echoes also touched this country, but no more than other regions and Europe itself.
- Although Cypriot banks are closely connected with Greece, all other sectors of the Cypriot economy are separate from the country of the Hellenes and do not belong to it.
British dominions
The country has a small area, which occupies about 3% of the entire territory, belonging to the UK. Two Cypriot cities belong to England: Dhekelia, Akrotiri and the nearby islands: Kiedes, Mazaki, Agios Georgios, Kordylia, Geronissos, Glyukiotiss and Kila.
Will Cyprus reunite?
What is the problem that most concerns the Cypriots now? The question of the unification of the two communities. The indigenous people of the island (Greek and Turkish) are waiting and hoping for a merger of territories.
In 2004, the country held a referendum for reunification. As a result, almost all Greek Cypriots said "Yes" to the merger of disparate parts, while the Turkish Cypriots were against it.
The Turkish government has an impact on its settlers (and they arrived in the Cypriot north during the unrest of about 150,000 people). The leader of the TRNC, Rauf Denktash, declared the unacceptability of the developed plan. But there is hope that this problem is in beautiful country will still be resolved through negotiations between Turkey and the European Union.
Summing up
So, which country does Cyprus belong to? This island is an independent state recognized all over the world. Legally, the Republic of Cyprus has sovereignty over its entire island territory (with the exception of 3% belonging to England) and the sea waters adjacent to it.
Useful data for tourists about Cyprus, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, the currency of Cyprus, the cuisine, the features of visa and customs restrictions in Cyprus.
Geography of Cyprus
The Republic of Cyprus is a state located on the island of the same name in the eastern part of mediterranean sea.
The coastline of the island is indented and rocky in the north, flat in the south, with long sandy beaches. In the center and southwest is the vast old Troodos volcanic massif ( highest point- Olympos, 1951 m.).
State
State structure
An independent sovereign republic with a presidential form of government, the legislative body is a unicameral parliament (House of Representatives). Since 1974, the northern part of the island (3,354 sq. km.) has been occupied by Turkish troops with the formation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, unrecognized by the world community.
Language
Official language: Greek, Turkish
English is widely used, less frequently French and German. Many hotels have Russian-speaking staff.
Religion
Orthodoxy - 77%, Islam - 18%.
Currency
International name: EUR
It is better to exchange currency in banks and at the airport.
History of Cyprus
ancient history The island dates back to the 7th millennium BC. From the first settlers of Cyprus, mysterious inscriptions remained on the stone blocks, which have not yet been deciphered.
At the beginning of the II millennium BC, the Greeks appeared on the island. They founded rich city-kingdoms in Cyprus on the model ancient Greek city Mycenae, bringing with them the Greek religion and the Greek way of life. The Greek state form of government existed in Cyprus until the era of the Romans.
The name of the island comes from the Latin root "cuprum" - copper. Countless natural resources- deposits of copper and iron, stocks of emeralds, cypress and cedar forests, olive groves and sugarcane plantations, outlandish fruits and vegetables have always made Cyprus a tasty morsel for foreigners. Before our era, the Egyptians, Phoenicians, Assyrians and Persians in turn established their dominance in Cyprus, poetically calling it "the land of the setting sun." Alexander the Great finally liberated the island from the invaders, but after the collapse of his empire, Cyprus became a province of the empire of Ptolemaic Egypt, and later, from 58 BC, passed to the Romans.
In 330 AD, after the collapse of the Roman Empire, the island became part of Byzantium. Since then, Cyprus has shared the fate of the Greek Orthodox world.
During the period of the Crusades, Cyprus was conquered by Richard the Lionheart on his way to the Holy Land. Richard gave it to the knightly order of the Templars, and they, in turn, to the Lusignans from France, who founded a kingdom on the island according to the western feudal model (1192-1489). The last queen of this kingdom transferred ownership of the island to the Venetian Republic. In 1571, the island was captured by the Turks and passed into the hands of the Ottoman Empire. Cyprus was under the rule of the Turks for more than three centuries.
In 1878, Turkey granted Cyprus to Great Britain in exchange for the promised help in case of war with Russia. Until 1959, Cyprus was a British colony. On August 16, 1960, after the liberation struggle of the Greek Cypriots, Cyprus was proclaimed an independent state - the Republic. The first president of the island republic was Archbishop Makarios.
In July 1974, the Greek military junta launched an armed rebellion against the government of Makarios. Turkey seized the moment. Under the pretext of protecting the Turkish Cypriots, it occupied 37% of the territory of Cyprus, which it illegally holds to this day.
Since April 1, 2004, when southern Cyprus (Greek) joined the EU, the borders between the two parts of the island have been open to the free movement of tourists and local residents.
The oldest history of the island dates back to the 7th millennium BC. From the first settlers of Cyprus, mysterious inscriptions remained on the stone blocks, which have not yet been deciphered....
Popular Attractions
Cyprus Tourism
Where to stay
Cyprus at all times has attracted thousands of tourists from all over the world with its crystal clean seas, hot sun, historical monuments and good service. Hotels in Cyprus are divided into several categories - these are hotels that have been assigned stars, hotels in the national style, hotels without stars and guest houses. In addition, in Cyprus you can stay in one of the tourist villages, rent an apartment or rent a tent at a campsite. These types of housing also have a gradation - they are divided into class A, B, C and luxury.
Hotels have a standard classification from one to five stars. Since Cyprus has a strict standard for assigning stars, you can be sure that by choosing one of them you will receive the appropriate service. However, the cost of living will depend not only on the number of stars, but also on how close the hotel is to the sea, whether the hotel has private beach and how equipped it is. At the same time, it is worth considering that if the hotel is located on the coast, you will have to get to the city center on your own and quite far. As a rule, in hotels you will be offered only breakfast, full board can be ordered for an additional fee. Among the advantages it can be noted that in most hotels you can find Russian-speaking staff. If we talk about entertainment, then four and five star hotels provide animation programs not only for children, but also for adults. On the beach can be arranged waterslides.
There are many official campsites in Cyprus. Here you will find toilets, showers, small cafes and shops. Can also be rented private apartment, villas on the seashore or houses that will be located in close proximity to the sea. The cost of living here is relatively inexpensive, and the service is high-class.
Popular hotels
Excursions and attractions in Cyprus
"Pearl" of the Mediterranean - the island of Cyprus - one of the most popular tourist destinations. This is real paradise with magnificent natural landscapes, excellent resorts, interesting history, whose roots go back to prehistoric times, and an abundance of monuments of various eras and civilizations. Officially, most of the island of Cyprus (98%) belongs to the Republic of Cyprus, but in reality, about a third of the island is the territory of the state of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, partially recognized by the world community.
Acquaintance with Cyprus, perhaps, should begin with its capital, Nicosia. This is one of ancient cities world, as well as the only city in the world that is simultaneously the capital of two states. You will get a lot of pleasure walking along the cobbled streets of the old city with its many cozy coffee houses and restaurants, souvenir shops, oriental bazaars and craft workshops. Undoubtedly, the stunning architecture of the old quarter of Laiki Githonia deserves special attention. Among the abundance of attractions in Nicosia, it is worth noting the Selimiye mosques (formerly Hagia Sophia) and Omeriye, the Cathedral of St. John, the Archaeological Museum, the Gallery of Modern Art, the churches of Faneromeni and the Virgin Chrysoliniotissa, the Archbishop's Palace and the Byzantine Museum located on its territory. No less interesting are such sights as the Venetian Walls and the Famagusta Gate, the Leventis City Historical Museum, the Museum of Pens and Letters, the Lapidary Museum, the Museum of Dancing Dervishes, the Buyuk-Hamam Baths and the Buyuk-Khani Caravanserai. Archeology lovers will be interested in the ruins of the ancient cities of Tamassos, Soli and Idalion located in the vicinity of the capital.
It is very popular with tourists resort town Limassol, located on the shores of Akrotiri Bay. Here you will find beautiful beaches, luxurious hotels, a lot of historical and architectural sights and various cultural events. You should definitely visit the Kolossi Castle, the Limassol fortress and the Museum of the Middle Ages located on its territory, the Archaeological Museum, Cathedral Agia Napa, City Park and Zoo, Kebir Jami Mosque, City Art Gallery, Folk Art Museum and KEO winery. Not far from Limassol are the ruins of the ancient cities of Amathus and Kourion, as well as the Sanctuary of Apollo Khilatsky.
It is worth visiting the famous Cypriot Paphos. It is not only a popular resort, but also ancient city with a rich cultural and historical heritage, a significant part of which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Of particular interest are the Tombs of the Kings, the Forty Columns Castle, the catacombs of St. Solomon, the Paphos mosaics, the ancient Odeon Theater, the Port Fortress, the Church of Chrysopolitissa and the Column of St. Paul, the Archaeological and Byzantine Museums and, of course, the Temple of Aphrodite in Kouklia. The famous Rocks of Aphrodite are also very popular, where, according to ancient legend, the goddess of love and beauty was born from the foam of the sea.
Undoubtedly, the Troodos Mountains are a great place to relax, with stunning landscapes, excellent skiing opportunities and many charming picturesque villages. This place is also famous for its ancient churches and monasteries, many of which are recognized as important historical and architectural monuments. Of greatest interest is the monastery of Kykkos and the miraculous icon of the Virgin kept in it. It is also worth visiting the Church of the Archangel Michael in Pedoulas, the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord in Palechori and the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker in the village of Kakopetria.
Among the natural attractions of the island, it is worth noting the Akamas nature reserve on the peninsula of the same name. In addition to the magnificent natural landscapes, rich flora and fauna, this place has become widely known due to the famous baths of Aphrodite located here, where, according to legend, the goddess of love indulged in joys with her beloved Adonis.
In the resort of Larnaca, the Church of St. Lazarus, the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, the Archaeological Museum, the Turkish Fort, the Jami Kebir Mosque and the Kamares Aqueduct deserve special attention. In the vicinity of Larnaca, the Stavrovouni Monastery, the Church of Angeloktistos in the village of Kiti, the ancient Kition, the Camel Farm in the village of Mazotos and the charming village of Perivola are of interest.
It is wonderful to relax and at the same time expand your horizons by visiting such beautiful resort towns of the island as Ayia Napa, Famagusta, Protaras and Kyrenia.
Cypriot cuisine
Cypriots carefully treat their traditions, including culinary ones. Cuisine is part of culture, it is history, it is the soul of the people. Cypriot cuisine does not tolerate fuss. It is appetizing, varied and plentiful. Her fragrances follow you at every turn. It will satisfy both gourmets and lovers of a lot of delicious food, and vegetarians. Cypriot dishes are prepared from fresh ingredients with plenty of vegetables, seasoned with local herbs and olive oil, making them not only delicious, but also healthy.
Cypriot cuisine has absorbed the culinary traditions of neighboring states - Lebanon, Turkey, Israel, it was influenced by numerous conquerors of the past, but, of course, it is associated with Greek cuisine with the closest ties of kinship. However, for all their similarities with Greek cuisine, Cypriot dishes have individual features. There are dishes and products that are unique to Cyprus, such as halloumi cheese.
Another distinguishing feature is the "meze". Translated from Greek, "meses" is just a snack. But in Cyprus, this is the name of an assortment of 20-30 different dishes, ranging from appetizers, salads and vegetables to meat and fish dishes. So, having come to the tavern and not knowing what to choose, order a meze - and you will taste a lot of local dishes. Some restaurants and taverns serve only fish meze or only meat meze. True, you should order it only if you have time. Plates, although small, but there are a lot of them. In addition, local wine on tap and your own good company will suit the meze. You need to eat “whitefish”, i.e. taking your time to get to the last dishes. (Cypriot cuisine does not tolerate fuss.)
The meze often includes the following dishes and snacks: Lukanika - smoked sausages seasoned with coriander, previously marinated in red wine; Kupepya - grape leaves (dolma) stuffed with meat and rice; Lundza, a smoked pork tenderloin also served in sandwiches, along with soft halloumi cheese, made from sheep's or goat's milk and often flavored with mint; sheftalia - grilled pork cutlets; aphelia - pork marinated in wine and coriander; stifado - beef or rabbit stewed in grape vinegar with onions and spices; and kleftiko, lamb baked in a clay oven with bay leaf.
Fish taverns serve squid, octopus in red wine or deep-fried, red mullet and sea bass.
Among vegetable dishes, boiled potatoes with parsley in olive oil, pickled cauliflower and beets, zucchini, kolokasi (a sweet root vegetable similar to potatoes) and asparagus are common.
There are certainly classic dishes of Greek cuisine: taramosalata - a pink creamy seasoning made from fish caviar whipped with potatoes, parsley, lemon juice and onions; talaturi - yogurt with finely chopped cucumbers, mint and garlic (reminiscent of Greek tzatziki); Greek salad (horiatiki salad) of tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, peppers, feta cheese, green olives and local seasonings; moussaka - traditional Greek dish, minced meat and eggplant casserole topped with bechamel sauce; and, of course, souvlaki - grilled pork, lamb or chicken skewers.
All these dishes and many others can be ordered separately. The cost of a meze is equal to the cost of a good lunch.
Fresh fruit is often served for dessert in Cyprus. Among the sweet dishes popular are loukoumades - Cypriot donuts in honey syrup; dactyla - “lady fingers” with almonds or walnuts and cinnamon, as well as shiamishi - a pie cut into pieces stuffed with semolina and orange. Cafes often serve kolokoti, a pumpkin-filled pie, raisin couscous, and pastelaki, a dessert made from sesame seeds, peanuts, and honey syrup. You should definitely try galaktobureko - puff pastry stuffed with cream and Turkish delight - local Turkish delight.
If you are in a hurry, go to traditional fast food establishments. Order souvlaki pita - kebabs in pita with potatoes and vegetables or gyros (same as shawarma, but tastier). Delicious and satisfying are tiropita - a pie with cheese (feta, halloumi, etc.), spanakopita - with spinach, sweet pies. Fast food is also cheap.
Cypriots carefully treat their traditions, including culinary ones. Cuisine is part of culture, it is history, it is the soul of the people. Cypriot cuisine does not tolerate fuss. It is appetizing, varied and plentiful. Her fragrances follow you at every turn. It will satisfy both gourmets and lovers of a lot of delicious food, and vegetarians. Cypriot dishes are prepared from fresh ingredients with plenty of vegetables, seasoned with local herbs and olive oil, making them not only delicious, but also healthy. ...
Tips
A 10% service charge is usually added to the bill at most restaurants. Tipping is usually given to taxi drivers as well. In the hotel it is customary to leave a few coins for the maids.
Visa
Office Hours
Banks are open on weekdays from 8.30 to 12.30, some banks in tourist areas open after lunch.
Shops are open Monday to Saturday from 8:00 to 13:00 and from 15:00 to 17:30 winter time, from 16 to 19 h - in summer time. Shops are closed on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons.
Purchases
When buying, you can get a Global Refund - a VAT refund (8.3% of the purchase amount), for this you need to take a Global Refund receipt when buying and, having assured it at the customs of Larnaca or Paphos airports, lower it into a bright yellow box. Compensation must be sent by bank transfer.
Souvenirs
Most often, tourists buy: napkins from Lefkarian lace; beer KEO; Soundzouko (suzuko) - a Cypriot delicacy made from grape molasses and almonds; Halloumi is a type of cheese made only in Cyprus; Cypriot dessert wine Kommandaria; recordings of traditional Cypriot music; traditional pottery - jugs, vases, candlesticks.
Emergency Phones
A single number for calling the police, firefighters or ambulance is 199 or 112.
Questions and opinions about Cyprus
Larnaca - Q&A
Question answer
Paphos - Question-Answer
Question answer
Tourists are very fond of holidays in the Mediterranean. The most popular direction is, of course, Turkish hotels. But next to Turkey there is a small island of Cyprus - a small pearl of the Mediterranean.
Where is Cyprus located? Usually people think that this is part of Greece, and this opinion is absolutely wrong. Cyprus is a small but independent country and has never been part of Greece. Sometimes it gets confusing when people confuse Cyprus with the Greek island of Crete.
What is known about Cyprus?
Cyprus is an island in the Mediterranean. It is south of Turkey, north of Israel, west of Syria and Lebanon. After the islands of Sicily and Sardinia, Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean. Although it is geographically located in Asia, it is politically a European state.
Where is Cyprus on the world map? In which country? The Republic of Cyprus is an island nation with no land border with no continent. According to official figures, the Republic of Cyprus occupies 98% of the island's territory, the remaining two percent are occupied by the British military bases of Akrotiri and Dhekelia.
The nearby islands of Agios, Geronissos, Georgios, Kila, Glukiotissa, Kordylia, Kiedes and Mazaki also belong to the Republic of Cyprus. The British base of Akrotiri is surrounded by Greek Cyprus, and Dhekelia also borders the UN buffer zone. This small part of the island is under the sovereignty of Great Britain, but is not part of it. Cyprus gained independence in 1960.
Cyprus conflict
Despite the constitution, which guaranteed the right to share power between the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriot minority, the two groups clashed. The end result was the Turkish occupation of the northeastern part of Cyprus. In 1983, Turkey announced that the territory would now be known as the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus". A narrow buffer zone between the two Cypriot ethnic groups is run by a UN peacekeeping force.
The authorities of the Republic of Cyprus control 60% of the island's territory (ethnic Greeks live here), 38% of the territory is under the control of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (the population is ethnic Turks). After the division of the island, a large-scale migration took place: Greek Cypriots moved to the south, Turkish Cypriots to the north. Both population groups live only in the city of Pyla, under a UN-appointed administration.
The Turkish invasion in 1974 made the island famous. Where Cyprus is located and in which country is now known all over the world.
Story
Cyprus is at the crossroads of three continents. Cyprus - what kind of country and where is it located? Historically, no matter what country it has been! The island has been influenced by the Romans, Egyptians, Persians, Turks and English. At one time it was part of Byzantium, Venice and the Ottoman Empire, was a colony of Great Britain.
The climate in Cyprus is temperate Mediterranean with hot summers and cool, wet winters.
Capital of Cyprus
The cities of Cyprus are full of many attractions and historical monuments.
Nicosia is the capital of the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Nicosia is famous for the Gothic Hagia Sophia and many fortifications. All attractions are concentrated in the Old Town. Walking through the narrow streets of the Old Town is a journey in itself, although many of the buildings are abandoned and already starting to fall apart.
Major resorts of the Republic of Cyprus
Where is the island of Cyprus, in which country? We have already mentioned above that it is located in a country called the "Republic of Cyprus", which is an autonomous state. The majority of tourists come to the territory of the island, where the Greek Cypriots live. After all, it is here that popular resorts with developed infrastructure are located. Best Places for holidays in Cyprus - these are the resorts of Protaras, Ayia Napa, Paphos, Larnaca and Limassol.
Limassol is the second largest city on the southern coast of Cyprus
It's very noisy and fun. resort place filled with hotels, shops, bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Life in Limassol does not stop for a minute and boils all 24 hours a day.
Larnaca - a city of outstanding beauty
It is a resort city with numerous sights, convenient embankments, scenic views and great beaches. It is located on the southern coast of Cyprus and is the third largest city in the country. Larnaca International Airport is located on the outskirts of the city.
Paphos is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty.
The city is divided into two parts: Old and New Paphos. it historical place still retains its old charm and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site world heritage. Amazing beaches, parks, historical museums and dynamic night life- all this represents modern Paphos.
Ayia Napa is a resort town in the eastern part of Cyprus
In the very center there is an ancient monastery, which today operates as a museum. Cape Cavo Greco is located 10 minutes drive from the city and is considered one of the most beautiful places around. The sandy beach and clear water attract many tourists.
Northern Cyprus
Where is Northern Cyprus located and what territory of the island does it occupy? The border between the two states runs almost in the middle of the island. Ethnic Turks live in the northern part. Tourists are very fond of visiting Northern Cyprus due to the fact that a visa is not required for entry. Only Turkey recognizes the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus as an independent state. You cannot fly here on a direct flight, only in transit through any Turkish airport.
Famagusta - the population is only about 50 thousand. It used to be a lively seaside town that attracted thousands of tourists. After the landing of Turkish troops, most of the inhabitants of the Greek Cypriots left their homes. The city was looted by marauders. It is now considered a deserted "ghost town" with hundreds of abandoned houses and hotels.
Kyrenia is a city on an island under the de facto control of Northern Cyprus. Kyrenia has many historical castles and bastions. The famous Shipwreck Museum houses the most old ship raised from the seabed. To the east and west of the city are clean sandy beaches. Some of them are modernly equipped, many restaurants and cafes have been built on them, while others have much more modest conditions.
The island where Cyprus is located is a place of legends and fairy tales, the place where Aphrodite appeared from the foam. Cyprus is an island of sun, sea, love and tranquility. All beaches have been awarded blue flags for cleanliness and excellent service.
According to the reviews of tourists and travelers, we can say that the southern part of the island is more popular with vacationers. There are more hotels here, which means more choice with the definition of accommodation. All coastline dotted with restaurants, souvenir shops and entertainment. In the northern part, Kyrenia is the most visited resort. This city attracts with its clean sandy beaches; people come here for a calm and quiet holiday.
Now you know what the island of Cyprus is, where it is located, in which country. Cyprus is a country itself, even though it is divided into parts by warring ethnic groups.
Emotional, temperamental Italy enjoys unceasing popularity among tourists. Here you will find world-favorite Italian cuisine, beautiful beaches and countless sights and attractions. Italy occupies the territory of the famous "boot" - the Apennine Peninsula. It includes the large islands of Sicily and Sardinia, as well as several small ones.
Sunny Bulgaria located in the east of the Balkan Peninsula. The shores of the country are washed by the Black Sea. In Bulgaria, the swimming season starts at the end of May and ends in September. The beaches in Bulgaria are sandy. ski season starts in December and lasts until mid-February. When choosing a tour to Bulgaria, tourists most often choose beach resorts Albena, Golden Sands,
Camel caravan in the Sahara, Tunisia. Find out the prices for tours to Tunisia People go to Tunisia to relax in first-class spas, bargain at the oriental bazaar, ride a camel through the largest desert in the world and, of course, have a wonderful rest in hotels on the seashore. Holidays in Tunisia have become a good substitute for holidays in Egyptian resorts: tours here are inexpensive, service in hotels is decent.
Croatia is located in the southeast of Europe, its shores are washed by Adriatic Sea. Croatia has absorbed all the best that is in Europe, the prices here are pleasant, and hotels in Croatia can claim the first place in terms of hospitality. Snow-white beaches, Mediterranean nature, picturesque towns - this is only a small part of the beauties of the former Yugoslav Republic. Summer in Croatia is dry
Turkey is a popular choice for Russian and European tourists. Here affordable prices, excellent service and warm sea 6 months a year. Not only fans like to spend holidays in this country beach holiday, but also for lovers of educational excursions and nightlife. It is especially good to travel to Turkey with the whole family, because for children (even the smallest ones) the most comfortable conditions are created here.
Northern - is under the control of Turkey, called the Republic of Turkey Northern Cyprus. The capital - Nicosia is simultaneously the capital of two states.
Republic of Cyprus- an independent state with a presidential system of government. The constitution was adopted in 1960. The President of the Republic is the head of state and executive power and is elected for a five-year term. The Council of Ministers, which implements state policy, is appointed by the president. Legislative power is vested in a unicameral parliament. According to the constitution, the president must be a Greek, the vice-president a Turk; the vice-president participates in the formation of the Council of Ministers. However, since 1963, the Turkish community has refused to participate in the activities of the parliament and government.
The Republic of Cyprus is a member of the European Parliament, the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund, the Security Council of Europe and many other international organizations.
Story
Civilization arose in Cyprus as early as the 3rd millennium BC. In the II millennium BC. Cyprus becomes the center of Crete-Mycenaean culture.The favorable location of Cyprus has led to the fact that throughout history, not only neighboring states have fought for possession of it. Cyprus was owned by the Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians, Romans. Cyprus was part of Byzantium in the fourth century BC, Venice - in the 12th century, part of the Ottoman Empire for three centuries, starting in 1571. In 1878 Cyprus was given to Great Britain.
Cyprus gained independence only in 1959 as a result of negotiations between Turkey, Great Britain and Greece. In 1960, Cyprus becomes an independent republic, a constitution is adopted. Incessant armed clashes between the Greek and Turkish population of Cyprus led to the fact that in 1964 the UN sends its troops to Cyprus. In 1974, a coup took place, as a result of which the Greek military regime collapsed, the Turks occupied almost half of the country's territory. In 1975, the Turkish Federative State was declared in the north of Cyprus, and in 1983 the independent Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was proclaimed, recognized only by Turkey and Azerbaijan.
Negotiations on the unification of the island are ongoing, but to no avail. In 2004, the island held a referendum in which the majority of Greek Cypriots voted against unification, while the majority of Turkish Cypriots supported the unification plan.
culture
The country is split into Greek and Turkish ethnic communities. Greek Cypriots, who make up 77% of the total population of the island, profess Orthodoxy. Christianity was brought here by the Greeks about two thousand years ago. According to historians, the first Christian state was created in Cyprus.The population of Northern Cyprus, Turkish Cypriots, professes Islam. Numerous mosques located in the towns and villages of the northern part of the island were partially converted from Orthodox churches.
Cypriots are an educated people, many of them are still able to read the inscriptions carved centuries ago on the walls of temples. Cypriots are proud of their cultural heritage which has accumulated over many millennia. Being in Cyprus, it is impossible to forget about the history of this island, which can be called a museum under open sky. Here you can find traces of each era - Greek temples, Roman mosaics, frescoes of the 15th century. All this, no doubt, affects the work of contemporary artists. In many villages there are folk crafts - pottery, jewelry, basket weaving, tapestry making and Lefkara lace weaving.
Economy
30 years of separate existence of southern and northern Cyprus have led to a significant difference in the economic development of the two states.Despite the fact that during the division, 200 thousand Greeks lost their lands in the north of the island, the economy Republic of Cyprus, based on the free enterprise system, has been successfully restored and even exceeded the level reached before the separation. successful economic development contributed to the transformation of the Republic of Cyprus into an international center of banking and business. Currently, there are about 30 foreign banks in Cyprus and over a thousand offshore companies registered here.
On the territory of Cyprus, the extraction of copper, chromium, and iron ores has been established. Animal husbandry and sericulture are developed. Fishing and sponge fishing has been established. There are enterprises of the clothing, food, and mining industries. Products Agriculture: wheat, barley, potatoes, gourds, almonds, tobacco, walnut, olive tree.
Exports: from the Greek zone - garments and pharmaceuticals, potatoes; from the Turkish zone - manufactured goods, citrus fruits. Imports: into the Greek zone - mineral fuels, motor vehicles, metals, textiles, foodstuffs; to the Turkish zone - heavy engineering products, transport equipment, basic industrial goods, farm animals, food.
Main trading partners: Greek zone - Great Britain, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Japan, Arab countries, USA; Turkish zone - Turkey, Great Britain, EEC countries.
The island became an important maritime center. Despite the small size of the Republic of Cyprus, it has the third largest fleet in the world.
An important source of income is foreign tourism. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus has relied on the organization of tourism. In 1969, a tourism organization (Cyprus Tourism Organization) was established, which provides assistance travel companies, is responsible for marketing, planning and regulation of the tourism services market.
Monetary unit: euro in the Greek part of Cyprus, Turkish lira in the Turkish part.
Population
Population as of 2003 - more than 770 thousand people. Ethnic composition: Greek Cypriots 77%, Turkish Cypriots 18%, national minorities (Armenians, Maronites, etc.) 5%. The number of tourists is more than 2 million annually. Mostly British, Germans, Russians and Scandinavians.official language Republic of Cyprus is Greek (Cypriot dialect). English is widely used, which is considered the second official language and is widely used as a means of communication. Turkish population Northern Cyprus speaks in his native language.
Cities
Cyprus is divided into 6 districts. The capital of the state is Nicosia (180 thousand people) (divided between Greeks and Turks). Big cities: Limassol (130 thousand people), Larnaca (80 thousand people), Famagusta (40 thousand people). Main ports: Larnaca, Paphos and Limassol (among the Greeks); Famagusta and Kyrenia (among the Turks).Nicosia- the capital of Cyprus, located in the middle of the island. It belongs to two states - the Republic of Cyprus and Turkey. Here is the Government, headquarters of consulates and embassies. Nicosia has international Airport, which is closed due to the Greek-Turkish conflict. Enterprises of food and light industry. Pottery crafts and tourism are developed. Nicosia is a sister city of Odessa.
Limassol located in the south of the island. This is the main industrial and maritime territory of Cyprus, as well as the second largest city in the country. Limassol is not only the main port, but also the leading center of tourism, international trade, industry and winemaking in Cyprus.
Larnaca- the third largest city in Cyprus, located near the southeastern coast. This is a rapidly developing resort and economic center of Cyprus. Larnaca also has an international airport.
Famagusta is one of the richest cities in the world. It is a port city on the southeast coast of the island. Cyprus, in Famagusta Bay. Famagusta is an important commercial center. There are food and textile industries.
Pathos- This is the ancient capital of Cyprus during the Roman rule. Paphos can be called the capital of the western region of Cyprus. Most of the population is employed in various branches of tourism, because. the city does not have a developed industry.
Kyrenia- one of the best coastal resorts in Cyprus, located on the northern coast of the island. Wealthy people have long appreciated the beauty and tranquility of Kyrenia. For this reason, the city has many luxury villas and bungalows.
