Cyprus, officially known as the Republic of Cyprus, is an island country located in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. It is located to the south of Turkey, west of Syria and Lebanon, northwest of Israel, and north of Egypt. Cyprus is the third-largest and third-most populous island in the Mediterranean, covering an area of approximately 9,251 square kilometers (3,572 square miles).
Geography
Climate
Cyprus enjoys a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild winters. The island receives abundant sunshine year-round, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F) in the summer and 15°C (59°F) in the winter. Rainfall is relatively low, particularly in the summer months, making Cyprus a popular destination for sun-seekers.
Fauna
Cyprus is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including various species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. The island’s rich biodiversity includes endemic species such as the Cyprus mouflon, a type of wild sheep, and the Cyprus warbler, a small bird found exclusively on the island.
Longest Rivers
Cyprus is not known for its rivers, as it has no permanent rivers due to its small size and relatively dry climate. However, during the rainy season, temporary streams and watercourses known as wadis can be found in some parts of the island.
Highest Mountains
The Troodos Mountains, located in the central part of Cyprus, are the island’s highest mountain range. Mount Olympus, also known as Chionistra, is the tallest peak, standing at 1,952 meters (6,404 feet) above sea level. The Troodos Mountains are known for their scenic beauty, dense forests, and picturesque villages.
History
Prehistory
Cyprus has a rich and diverse history that dates back to prehistoric times. The island was first settled by Neolithic farmers around 10,000 BC, and evidence of their civilization can be found at sites such as Choirokoitia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cyprus later became a center of trade and civilization, with influences from ancient Greece, Egypt, and the Near East.
Ancient Civilizations
In antiquity, Cyprus was inhabited by various civilizations, including the Mycenaeans, Phoenicians, Assyrians, and Persians. The island was later conquered by Alexander the Great in 333 BC and subsequently became part of the Hellenistic world under the rule of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt.
Roman and Byzantine Period
Cyprus was annexed by the Roman Republic in 58 BC and later became a prominent Roman province known for its production of copper. During the Byzantine period, the island became a center of Christianity, with the conversion of its inhabitants to the faith. Byzantine churches and monasteries dot the landscape, showcasing the island’s religious heritage.
Medieval and Ottoman Rule
In the Middle Ages, Cyprus came under the rule of various powers, including the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem, the Lusignan dynasty, and the Venetian Republic. In 1571, the island was conquered by the Ottoman Empire, marking the beginning of over three centuries of Ottoman rule.
British Colonial Period
Cyprus became a British colony in 1878, following the signing of the Cyprus Convention. Under British rule, the island experienced significant economic and social development, including the construction of modern infrastructure such as railways and roads.
Independence and Division
Cyprus gained independence from British rule in 1960, becoming the Republic of Cyprus. However, tensions between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities soon erupted into violence, leading to the division of the island in 1974. The northern part of Cyprus remains under the control of the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognized only by Turkey.
Demographics
Cyprus has a population of approximately 1.2 million people, with the majority residing in the southern part of the island, which is controlled by the Republic of Cyprus. The population is ethnically diverse, with Greek Cypriots comprising the largest ethnic group, followed by Turkish Cypriots, British expatriates, and other minority communities.
Administrative Divisions
Cyprus is divided into six administrative districts, each governed by a District Officer appointed by the Ministry of Interior. These districts are further subdivided into municipalities and communities.
- Nicosia District
- Limassol District
- Larnaca District
- Paphos District
- Famagusta District
- Kyrenia District
10 Largest Cities by Population
- Nicosia
- Limassol
- Larnaca
- Paphos
- Famagusta
- Kyrenia
- Protaras
- Paralimni
- Morphou
- Aradippou
Education Systems
Education in Cyprus is compulsory for children between the ages of 5 and 15 and is provided free of charge in public schools. The country has a well-developed education system, with both public and private schools offering primary, secondary, and tertiary education. The University of Cyprus and the Cyprus University of Technology are among the top institutions of higher education in the country.
Transportation
Cyprus has several airports, with Larnaca International Airport and Paphos International Airport being the main gateways to the island. The country also has a network of highways and secondary roads that connect major cities and towns. The ports of Limassol and Larnaca are the largest and busiest ports in Cyprus, serving as important hubs for maritime trade.
Country Facts
- Population: 1.2 million
- Capital: Nicosia
- Official Language: Greek, Turkish
- Religion: Christianity (Greek Orthodox and Islam)
- Race: Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, British expatriates, and others
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- ISO Country Codes: ISO 3166-2: CY
- International Calling Code: +357
- Top-Level Domain: .cy