Description:

Cyprus is a beautiful Mediterranean island situated south of Turkey and north of Egypt and is the third largest Mediterranean island after Sicily and Sardinia.
 
With its white sandy beaches, crystal blue sea and the sun shining an average of 326 days of the year, it is no wonder why Cyprus is a very popular destination for both tourists and those seeking a move to warmer climates.
 
Cyprus blends modern with ancient times and has a vast contrast between luxurious beach resorts, cosmopolitan towns, sleepy villages and natural unspoiled countryside.
 
The wealth of Cyprus came from its ancient fortune of copper which may possibly be the reason for the colours used in the Cyprus national flag.

Although the official language of Cyprus is Greek, English is widely spoken throughout as Cyprus was once a British colony until 1960 when it gained independence. Because of the colonisation, vehicles drive on the left-hand side the same as Britain.

Being the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite (the ancient Greek Olympian goddess of Love and Beauty) and other ancient gods and goddesses, Cyprus has a vast history dating back from the Neolithic age. Ancient artefacts, Byzantine churches, paintings, works of art, spectacular architecture, present only some of the history to discover and visit here in Cyprus.

The island is currently divided by the Green Line after violence broke out in 1974 and the Turkish army claimed hold of the northern side of Cyprus and declared themselves the TRNC (Turkish Republic Northern Cyprus), only recognised by Turkey. Talks are ongoing for a declaration to be agreed and both the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriots hope that eventually the island of Cyprus will once again be reunited.

Cyprus has been a member of the European Union since 2004 and adopted the Euro currency in January 2008. Economy has prospered thanks to low taxes and a developed infrastructure. Islandwide property development has increased dramatically since entry to the EU.

• Things to do in Cyprus
• Sightseeing in Cyprus
• Cyprus Beaches

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