Cyprus

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Cyprus

Cyprus, officially the Republic of Cyprus, is an island nation in the Eastern Mediterranean, known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture.

Area and Population:
Cyprus has a total area of 9,251 sq km (3,572 sq mi). As of a 2025 estimate, its population is approximately 1,347,000. The main towns in the Government-controlled area (2021 population figures) include Lefkosia (Nicosia) with 351,600, Lemesos (Limassol) with 258,900, Larnaka (Larnaca) with 154,200, Pafos (Paphos) with 101,900, and Ammochostos (Free Famagusta) rural area with 51,500.

Capital:
The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia (Lefkosia), which is uniquely a divided capital, with a northern part (Lefkoşa) serving as the capital of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

Language:
The official languages of the Republic of Cyprus are Greek and Turkish.

Currency:
The currency of the Republic of Cyprus is the Euro (€). In the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, the Turkish Lira (TL) is used.

Religion:
The majority of Greek Cypriots are Greek Orthodox Christians. The Turkish Cypriot community is predominantly Muslim. Other Christian denominations, including Armenians, Maronites, and Roman Catholics, are also present on the island.

Attractions & Cities:

  • Major Cities: Nicosia (the capital), Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, Ayia Napa, Protaras, Famagusta, and Kyrenia.
  • Historical & Archaeological Sites:
    • Tombs of the Kings (Paphos): An immense archaeological site with underground tombs dating back to the 4th century B.C.
    • Kato Paphos Archaeological Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient ruins.
    • Kourion: An ancient city-kingdom archaeological site.
    • Kolossi Castle: A medieval castle near Limassol.
    • Larnaca Kalesi (Larnaca Castle)
    • Paphos Castle
    • Limassol Castle
    • Salamis Ancient City (Northern Cyprus): Known for its Roman ruins.
    • Kyrenia Castle (Northern Cyprus): Originally built by the Byzantines.
    • Bellapais Abbey (Northern Cyprus): A beautiful Gothic monastery.
    • Othello Castle (Northern Cyprus): A historic castle in Famagusta.
  • Natural Wonders & Scenery:
    • Troodos Mountains: Cyprus’s largest mountain range, offering stunning views, traditional villages, hiking trails, and historic monasteries like Kykkos Monastery. Mount Olympus, the highest point, is located here.
    • Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou): According to legend, the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite.
    • Akamas Peninsula National Park: A wild nature reserve with hiking trails, wild beaches, and rich biodiversity, including the spectacular Blue Lagoon and Avakas Gorge.
    • Cape Greco: A stunning national park with sea caves, rock formations, and clear waters, located between Ayia Napa and Protaras.
    • Nissi Beach (Ayia Napa): A famous beach known for its white sand and clear, shallow waters.
    • Fig Tree Bay (Protaras): Known for its pure sea and incredible views.
    • Larnaca and Limassol Salt Lakes: Important wetlands.
    • Cedar Valley: A lush pine forest home to the indigenous Cypriot cedar.
    • Millomeri Waterfalls
    • Adonis Baths (Paphos)
  • Cultural & Religious Sites:
    • Ayia Napa Monastery
    • Agia Kyriaki Church (Paphos): A UNESCO World Heritage site built on the site of a Byzantine basilica.
    • Holy Church of Saint Lazarus (Larnaca): A stunning building with historical significance.
    • Agios Neophytos Monastery: Founded in 1159, one of Cyprus’s most striking religious sites.
    • Selimiye Mosque (Northern Nicosia): Formerly the Cathedral of Saint Sophia, a prominent Gothic church.
    • Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque (Famagusta): Another significant mosque.

Architecture:

Cyprus showcases a blend of architectural styles from different eras, including ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Crusader, Ottoman, and modern influences.

  • Ancient & Medieval: Archaeological sites like Salamis and Kourion, and numerous castles (Kyrenia, Kolossi, Paphos, Limassol) demonstrate early architectural prowess. Byzantine churches, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Troodos Mountains, feature unique frescoes and design.
  • Gothic: The Selimiye Mosque (formerly St. Sophia Cathedral) and Bellapais Abbey in Northern Cyprus are prime examples of Gothic architecture.
  • Modern: Contemporary architecture is also making its mark. Notable modern buildings include:
    • The Oval (Limassol): A 75m high modern office center with an unusual oval shape, known for its energy efficiency.
    • White Walls (Tower 25, Nicosia): A skyscraper designed by Jean Nouvel, recognized for its distinctive and innovative design.
    • Limassol Blu Marine (Limassol): A residential complex next to Limassol Marina.

Roads for Tourism:

Cyprus offers excellent opportunities for road trips, with well-maintained roads, although mountain roads can be narrower. All Cypriot roads are free of charge. Popular routes include:

  • Troodos Mountain Routes: Explore charming mountain villages, vineyards, monasteries (like Kykkos Monastery), and Mount Olympus.
  • Coastal Drives: Scenic routes connecting major cities like Limassol to Paphos, passing by beaches and quaint villages.
  • Nicosia to Ayia Napa: A drive from the capital to the popular resort town, with potential stops at Hala Sultan Tekke mosque and ancient Salamis.
  • Akamas Peninsula: While some areas might require a jeep, this nature reserve offers stunning landscapes and trails.
  • Wine Routes: Specific routes dedicated to exploring Cyprus’s wine-producing villages, particularly in the Limassol and Paphos regions.

Hotels:

Cyprus offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury resorts to boutique hotels and traditional guesthouses. Some recommended hotels include:

  • Paralimni/Protaras Area: Grecian Park Hotel, Evalena Beach Hotel, Sunrise Jade – Adults Only, Sunrise Pearl Hotel & Spa, Capo Bay Hotel.
  • Ayia Napa: Olympic Lagoon Resorts Ayia Napa.
  • Limassol: Elias Beach Hotel, Mediterranean Beach Hotel.
  • Paphos: Alexander The Great Hotel Paphos.

Restaurants and Cuisine:

Cypriot cuisine is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences, often featuring fresh, local ingredients. Key dishes and popular restaurants include:

  • Cuisine Highlights:
    • Meze: A selection of small dishes, often featuring a wide variety of local specialties.
    • Souvla: Large pieces of meat (often pork or lamb) cooked on a spit.
    • Kleftiko: Lamb slow-cooked in a traditional clay oven.
    • Halloumi: A traditional Cypriot cheese, often grilled or fried.
    • Sheftalia: Cypriot sausages made from minced pork and lamb, wrapped in caul fat.
    • Lountza: Smoked pork loin.
    • Fresh seafood.
    • Olive oil and local wines.
  • Recommended Restaurants:
    • To Kazani Traditional Tavern (Limassol): Known for authentic local dishes and traditional meze.
    • Vasilis Tavern (Paphos): Famous for traditional Cypriot meze and fresh seafood.
    • The Art Café – Restaurant (Nicosia): Offers a blend of international and Mediterranean cuisine.
    • Ouzeri (Limassol): Specializes in traditional meze and seafood.
    • Mylos Restaurant (Limassol): Offers traditional Cypriot food with fresh local ingredients.
    • Taverna Mousikos (Sotira): Famous for Souvla, Kleftiko, and Halloumi.
    • Meraki (Paphos): Contemporary Mediterranean cuisine.
    • The Wine House (Paphos): Great wine selection paired with modern Mediterranean dishes.

Annual Travel:

Cyprus is a popular tourist destination, particularly for holidays. In May 2025, tourist arrivals recorded a 13.7% increase, reaching 479,160. For the period of January-May 2025, total arrivals were 1,344,486, a 14.9% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The United Kingdom is consistently the main source of tourism for Cyprus, followed by Israel, Poland, Germany, Sweden, and Greece. The vast majority of tourists visit Cyprus for holidays.