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Discover Cyprus: Sun, Beaches and Culture book now
Cyprus, the "Island of Aphrodite," is a Mediterranean gem where 10,000 years of history meet crystal-clear waters and rugged mountains. Geographically at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, its culture is a rich tapestry of these influences.
History & Description
Cyprus is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean. Its history is defined by its strategic location, leading to a succession of rulers including the Egyptians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and British.
Mythology: Known as the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, who supposedly rose from the sea foam at Petra tou Romiou.
Modern Era: Gained independence from Britain in 1960. Since 1974, the island has been divided into the Republic of Cyprus (south) and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (recognized only by Turkey). The capital, Nicosia, remains the world’s last divided capital city.
Typical Foods
Cypriot cuisine is a flavorful blend of Greek and Middle Eastern traditions, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients.
Halloumi: The island’s most famous export—a salty, squeaky cheese often served grilled.
Meze: A feast of small plates (up to 30!) including dips like tahini and taramosalata, grilled meats, and vegetables.
Sheftalia: Succulent grilled sausages made of minced meat, herbs, and onions wrapped in caul fat.
Souvlakia: Skewered pork or chicken grilled over charcoal and served in pita bread.
Kleftiko: Slow-baked lamb traditionally cooked in a clay oven with laurel leaves.
Commandaria: One of the world’s oldest named wines, a sweet dessert wine from the Troodos foothills.
Activities & Festivals
Whether you are a history buff or a party-goer, the island offers year-round engagement.
Activities
Ancient Sites: Visit the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos or the Kourion Amphitheater for stunning Roman ruins.
Beach Life: Relax at Nissi Beach (Ayia Napa) or Fig Tree Bay (Protaras).
Diving: Explore the Zenobia Wreck off Larnaca, one of the top dive sites in the world.
Major Festivals
Limassol Carnival (Feb/March): A 10-day celebration with parades, costumes, and music before Lent.
Kataklysmos (June): The "Festival of the Flood," celebrated 50 days after Easter with water-based games and concerts along the coast.
Limassol Wine Festival (Sept): A tribute to the island’s winemaking tradition with free tastings and traditional dancing.
Anthestiria (May): A flower festival celebrating the rebirth of nature.
Nature & Wildlife
Cyprus offers dramatic landscapes, from sun-drenched coasts to snowy peaks.
Troodos Mountains: The "green heart" of the island, perfect for hiking, cycling, and even skiing in winter. It’s home to the Caledonia Waterfalls.
Akamas Peninsula: A rugged national park with the Blue Lagoon and the Avakas Gorge.
Wildlife:
Turtles: Lara Bay is a protected nesting site for Green and Loggerhead turtles.
Mouflon: The Cyprus Mouflon, a shy wild sheep, can be found in the Paphos Forest.
Flamingos: Thousands of flamingos migrate to the Larnaca Salt Lake during the winter months.
History & Description
Cyprus is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean. Its history is defined by its strategic location, leading to a succession of rulers including the Egyptians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and British.
Mythology: Known as the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, who supposedly rose from the sea foam at Petra tou Romiou.
Modern Era: Gained independence from Britain in 1960. Since 1974, the island has been divided into the Republic of Cyprus (south) and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (recognized only by Turkey). The capital, Nicosia, remains the world’s last divided capital city.
Typical Foods
Cypriot cuisine is a flavorful blend of Greek and Middle Eastern traditions, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients.
Halloumi: The island’s most famous export—a salty, squeaky cheese often served grilled.
Meze: A feast of small plates (up to 30!) including dips like tahini and taramosalata, grilled meats, and vegetables.
Sheftalia: Succulent grilled sausages made of minced meat, herbs, and onions wrapped in caul fat.
Souvlakia: Skewered pork or chicken grilled over charcoal and served in pita bread.
Kleftiko: Slow-baked lamb traditionally cooked in a clay oven with laurel leaves.
Commandaria: One of the world’s oldest named wines, a sweet dessert wine from the Troodos foothills.
Activities & Festivals
Whether you are a history buff or a party-goer, the island offers year-round engagement.
Activities
Ancient Sites: Visit the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos or the Kourion Amphitheater for stunning Roman ruins.
Beach Life: Relax at Nissi Beach (Ayia Napa) or Fig Tree Bay (Protaras).
Diving: Explore the Zenobia Wreck off Larnaca, one of the top dive sites in the world.
Major Festivals
Limassol Carnival (Feb/March): A 10-day celebration with parades, costumes, and music before Lent.
Kataklysmos (June): The "Festival of the Flood," celebrated 50 days after Easter with water-based games and concerts along the coast.
Limassol Wine Festival (Sept): A tribute to the island’s winemaking tradition with free tastings and traditional dancing.
Anthestiria (May): A flower festival celebrating the rebirth of nature.
Nature & Wildlife
Cyprus offers dramatic landscapes, from sun-drenched coasts to snowy peaks.
Troodos Mountains: The "green heart" of the island, perfect for hiking, cycling, and even skiing in winter. It’s home to the Caledonia Waterfalls.
Akamas Peninsula: A rugged national park with the Blue Lagoon and the Avakas Gorge.
Wildlife:
Turtles: Lara Bay is a protected nesting site for Green and Loggerhead turtles.
Mouflon: The Cyprus Mouflon, a shy wild sheep, can be found in the Paphos Forest.
Flamingos: Thousands of flamingos migrate to the Larnaca Salt Lake during the winter months.
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