Cyprus is an island nation in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea, east of Greece and north of Egypt. One of the most popular tourist destinations in this part of the world, Cyprus is a prosperous republic with a highly developed infrastructure. While the republic has official control over the entire island, Cyprus is, in reality, divided into four distinct regions: Cyprus, the northern part of the island controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (recognized only by Turkey), the United Nations green line between those two areas, and two British Sovereign base areas.

History

Cyprus has a long and illustrious history in fact and in mythology. It is the recognized as the birthplace of Aphrodite, Adonis and Pygmalion. However, the first documented occupation of the island occurred in 10,000 BC when a tribe of hunter-gatherers roamed the hills and beaches here. Other ancient populations, such as the Myceneans and Phoenicians, came and prospered here, leaving remnants of their settlements all over the island. Throughout the Middle Ages this island came under the influence of the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Turks, until finally becoming part of the British Crown in 1925. In 1960, Cyprus gained independence from Great Britain and established a republic. The Turkish government sent in troops in 1963 to restore constitutional order. This resulted in infighting among Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots and the establishment of Turkish Cypriot enclaves in the northern part of the island.

Culture and Sightseeing

Most people that visit Cyprus have some interest in ancient cultures. That is because Cyprus has a wealth of architectural ruins left by the myriad civilizations that once lived here. The town of Paphos is home to the Tombs of the Kings, the Kato Paphos Archeological Park and Roman Mosaics. For tourists more interested in lying on the beach, Cyprus has that covered also. Ayia Napa has several fun places to hang out and soak up the Cyprus sun, particularly the Bazaar Bar and the Ambassaden Bar. The Dolphin Boat Safari that departs from this town is very popular with visitors.

Eat & Drink

The cuisine of Cyprus is definitely Mediterranean in character and influenced by the foods of Greece. Halloumi, a cheese that is made from a mixture of sheep and goats milk, is native to Cyprus and is often served as an appetizer. Pork and lamb are important parts of the Cypriot diet, as well as seafoods, particularly octopus and squid.