Cyprus located in the Mediterranean Sea. It is a real treasure trove of monuments of ancient culture: catacombs, the ruins of Roman palaces and the rich heritage of ancient Greece. In other words, Cyprus is a place worth a visit at least once in your lifetime.
1. Some historians believe that the name “Cyprus” came from “cuprum”, meaning “copper”.
Since ancient times, large deposits of this most valuable metal for its time have been discovered on the island. While, some other sources suggest that the name of the island is associated with the local cypress tree, which occupies an impressive area.
2. Cyprus is the third largest and most populous island in the entire Mediterranean Sea.
Its area is 3,572 square miles (9,251 square kilometers), with a population of about 1147,500 people.
3. The capital of the island is the city of Nicosia.
Today, Cyprus formally consists of two parts-Greek and Turkish, complemented by two English villages with military bases.
4. Cyprus, or rather forty-five of its beaches, were awarded the “Blue flag”, which is issued for impeccable cleanliness and environmental safety.
To earn such a mark, it is necessary not only to maintain perfect cleanliness in the bathing area but also to provide service at the highest level, with which Cypriots cope 100%.
5. Cyprus has a network of catacombs and people visit there seeking a healing
The catacomb of St. Solomonia is not only a place for a sightseeing trip but also a destination for pilgrims from all over the world who want to pray in the Holy place and ask for healing.
6. Cyprus produces a variety of wine, which is considered the progenitor of all wines.
The legendary drink “Commandaria”, the mention of which is recorded more than four thousand years ago, is made in the regions of Cyprus from grape berries xinesteri and Mavro.
7. There are many different archaeological sites in the city of Paphos located in southern Cyprus.
Those archeological sites have great historical value. Therefore, the whole city has been included in the UNESCO cultural heritage list.
8. Cypriots like to relax.
For example, on Sundays, everything is usually closed; banks and pharmacies work only on weekdays, and only until lunchtime. Most of the shops close at 5-6 PM.
Having spare time at hand on weekends, most people go to beaches and visit other beautiful sights with their families. They also visit each other’s homes and create an enjoyable company outdoors under pleasant sunshine.
9. According to the legends, the Greek goddess Aphrodite was born from the sea foam in Cyprus.
In Greek mythology, Aphrodite is considered the goddess of beauty, love, and pleasure. Interestingly, there is a bay called Aphrodite in Cyprus. The locals give that name because of the believes that Aphrodite was born in that area.
10. Cyprus is the country with the highest number of sunny days per year in the entire Mediterranean region.
The sun shines brightly on the island for 300 days a year. At the same time, the climate here is very mild and the average temperature is 68-86 Fahrenheit (20-30° Celsius).
For this reason, foreigners visit Cyprus to pack themselves up with a good dosage of sunshine and enjoy the pleasant beaches of the island.
11. Cypriots are very heat-loving people.
If the winter temperature drops to 55-59 Fahrenheit (13-15°), they are all wearing warm clothes, while foreigners continue to walk around in t-shirts and shorts.
12. Cyprus is the only foreign venue for an English Royal wedding.
English Royal weddings are usually held in England. However, on May 12, 1191, one Royal wedding took place in Cyprus. King Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre.
13. Cyprus is one of the top 10 diving destinations in the world.
The sunken ship Zenobia is among the top ten dive sites in the world.
14. The famous Cypriot halloumi cheese dates back to the medieval Byzantine period.
The Cypriot Halloumi cheese, which is now known all over the world, was first made in Cyprus in the era of Medieval Byzantium from a mixture of cow and goat’s milk.
So, if you visit the place, you will have a chance to taste the authentic halloumi cheese in its origin.
15. Cyprus is one of the few places in the world where Green turtles and Loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) nest.
In Cyprus, turtles and their nests are under state protection. Because they are considered threatened species. In other words, they are on the verge of extinction.
You can see them on the Akamas Peninsula, where there is a special turtle station. And you can spot them on the beaches of Alagadi.
16. Cyprus is home to about 10,000 pink flamingos.
Do you love flamingos? If the answer is yes, then you are heading to the right destination. Because about 10 000 pink flamingos, during their migration to the South, stop in Cyprus.
You can watch them salty waters of Larnaca, Aliki, Oroklini, and Akrotiri.
17. Between 1878 and 1914, Cyprus was a British colony.
Therefore, it is quite common to find English speakers in Cyprus. Also, Cypriots got “three-pin” sockets as the inheritance from the UK.
18. Three spoken languages in Cyprus are Greek, English, and Turkish.
Turkish is the official language of Northern Cyprus, Greek is the official language of southern Cyprus. Additionally, Most Cypriots know English as a second language.
19. As for the attractions, there is a little bit of everything for the people of all interests.
Most tour guides recommend starting the journey from the capital city Nicosia and visit the sites such as the ancient wall of the Venetian Fortress. And walk on the ancient streets of the city. Also, there are also many churches and mosques in the city.
One can also visit places such as Nissi Beach, Cape Greco, Tombs of the Kings, and Petra Tou Romiou.
20. Cyprus is one of the safest countries for tourists.
Incidents with travelers here are extremely rare.
It is an island with a rich culture, with more than 9,000 years of history. People who have visited Cyprus will understand why Aphrodite chose this island to get out of the sea.
It is a paradise for lovers of sunbathing, delicious food and a relaxed lifestyle.
