Interesting facts about Cyprus

Cyprus is an amazing island with a multifaceted culture and stunning nature. Cyprus tourist offers are not limited to beaches and spas . Its rich history and architecture are no less attractive than resorts and restaurants. A real gem of the Mediterranean can only offer the best experience. What you should definitely know about one of the main resorts in Europe? We offer you to view a selection of interesting facts about Cyprus.

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One island - two countries

It so happened that the history of Cyprus is endowed with trends of two cultures. The island is divided into Northern Cyprus (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) and the Republic of Cyprus. In fact, two nationalities coexist here - Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots. At the latter can be found much in common with the Greeks, although the inhabitants of the island represent a separate ethnic population.

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Unique Capital

In Cyprus, you will be able to visit the only European capital, in the center of which runs the border Green Line, dividing the city into two countries and two stories of the island. Nicosia is an ancient city, which is one of the oldest in the world. Today Nicosia is the cultural, historical and economic center of the island. The city center is usually full of fairs and international holidays. Among the main attractions are old churches, museums, authentic restaurants and the picturesque Laiki quarter - Gitonya.

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Ancient Cyprus

Everyone knows that Cyprus is a storehouse of ancient ruins. This is one of the main components of successful tourism on the island. Medieval fortresses-castles, mosques, amphitheaters and entire cities of excavations. The archaeological museums of Cyprus are filled with the most valuable relics of ancient times. If you are a fan of antiquities, Cyprus will be a godsend for you.

Worth visiting:

• Archaeological park of old Paphos.
• The ruins of the ancient cities of Kourion and Amathus, in the vicinity of Limassol.
• Archaeological Museum in Nicosia.
• The ancient city of Salamis, near Famagusta.

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UNESCO City in Cyprus

Paphos is not only a resort, but also the historical center of Cyprus. If you like beach leisure and travel - choose Paphos. There is not only modern infrastructure, but also unique places with ruins of the ancient Roman period. In the old town of Nea Paphos, which is under the protection of UNESCO, you will see ancient mosaics and wall decorations created many centuries ago. The theater of the ancient city was built in the 2nd century AD.

What antiquities can be visited in Paphos and the surrounding area:

• Paphos castle
• Ruins of the Temple of Aphrodite
• Tombs of the Kings
• Church of Panagia Chrysopolitissa
• Chrysoroyatissa Monastery

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Cyprus - the island of love

According to legend, it was in Cyprus from the sea foam that the ancient Greek goddess of love Aphrodite was born. Here you can hear many interesting myths associated with this legend. Therefore, Cyprus has always been and remains an island of romance. Many travelers already perceive a wedding or honeymoon here as a tradition.

Petra tou Romiou - the most legendary place, the most beautiful bay, which has become a symbol of Aphrodite in Cyprus, is located on the way from Paphos to Limassol. A huge rock on the Mediterranean coast over the years has become a place of pilgrimage for lovers. For tourists, beautiful rituals are held to attract love. And bathing on a full moon, according to legend, will give youth and beauty.

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English colony in Cyprus

Most Cypriots communicate well in English. It is connected with the history of the colonial period. Not everyone knows that from 1915 to 1960 Cyprus was officially part of the British Empire as a colony with a naval base. All in all, the history of Cyprus from a colonial island to a leading European resort is quite interesting. Since ancient times, in different periods, it has been under the rule of the Egyptians, Assyrians, Persians, Arabs, Phoenicians, French, Venetians, Ottoman Turks and the British. Part of the island (2% of the land) today belongs to the sovereign territory of Great Britain.

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Roads of Cyprus

It is a proven fact that Cypriot roads are among the best in Europe. There are many cities and attractions on the island that are worth seeing. And the quality of the roads allows you to make unforgettable routes for autotravel. Since the colonial period, left-hand traffic has been preserved on the island. If this causes difficulties, choose taxis or buses for travel.

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Blue flags of Cyprus

The island has 74 Blue Flag beaches, already a record for a relatively small island. The coasts marked with the Blue Flag comply with the European quality mark, which includes a whole list of requirements. The main ones are, first of all, the sanitary standards of the coast and water, as well as the level of beach infrastructure. The largest number of beaches in Cyprus with the Blue Flag is concentrated in the area of resort center of Ayia Napa.

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The best climate

Another tangible reason to relax in Cyprus is the amazing Mediterranean climate, one of the most favorable for health. It has the largest number of sunny days per year in the entire Mediterranean. Among European countries, Cyprus has the highest level of life expectancy. At any time of the year, you can fly here for mountain air enriched with iodine. The climate of Cyprus is very favorable for many chronic diseases.

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Small EU country

Cyprus is one of the ten smallest countries in Europe. Its area is 9,251 km². Nevertheless, the relatively small territory of the island is a real find, both in cultural and historical terms, and in natural resources. From ancient ruins to stunning diving.

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Cypriot wine

Cyprus is famous as the birthplace of the most ancient dessert wine. The first written mention of the brand "Commandaria" dates back to 1190. It is made from a special grape variety that grows only in Cyprus. The famous festival of Dionysus is dedicated to winemaking on the island. It is held annually in the village of Akrotiri, in the Limassol region. A grand celebration for ten days gives the incredible atmosphere of old Cyprus, with musical events, tastings of traditional Cypriot snacks and, of course, wine. "Commandaria" has the status of the National Product of Cyprus.

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Halloumi - the main cheese in Cyprus

Another highlight of Cyprus is the local halloumi cheese. In general, Cypriot cuisine with Mediterranean flavors is very rich and varied. But it is halloumi that gives it a special charm. According to the traditional recipe, the cheese is made from a mixture of goat and sheep milk. Halumi can be safely considered the hallmark of the island. It is served both in expensive restaurants and in traditional taverns as a main course appetizer.

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The lowest crime rate

And this is a fact - in Cyprus the crime rate is much lower than in many European countries. In particular, theft on the island is considered to be the worst sin. Therefore, according to statistics, thefts are committed mainly by visitors. Cypriots are distinguished by upbringing and culture. However, it is better to keep an eye on valuables in order to avoid ruining your holiday and mood.

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Symbol of Cyprus - mouflon

An endemic species of mouflon lives in Cyprus - ovis orientalis. These animals can only be seen here, in the forests of the Paphos region. This is not easy to do, because the animals are very shy. This is a kind of wild sheep that live among the rocks. The mouflon is the most prominent representative of the fauna of the island and its unofficial symbol, which can be seen on old Cypriot coins. To meet the mouflons, head to the west of the island, to the Stavros Tis Psokas nature reserve.

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Ancient tombs

One of the main attractions of Cyprus are the Tombs of the Kings - a huge necropolis, the resting place of the nobility of ancient times. Ancient burials continued here until the 3rd century AD. By design, they are very reminiscent of Egyptian crypts. Many graves are decorated with preserved frescoes and Doric columns. Lovers of antiquity and ancient history have a place to roam here. The archaeological heritage of Cyprus is located a few kilometers northwest of the harbor of Paphos.

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These and many other facts about the stunning island of Cyprus are waiting for you during an unforgettable holiday. We advise you to book accommodation in Cyprus in advance!