Nestled in the azure waters of the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus is a captivating island that boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural wonders.
Often referred to as the “Island of Aphrodite,” this enchanting destination is not only famous for its stunning beaches and archaeological treasures but also for its unique blend of traditions and influences stemming from its diverse past.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply a curious traveler, Cyprus has a treasure trove of intriguing facts waiting to be discovered.
History of Cyprus
Cyprus has a rich and complex history that dates back to prehistoric times.
Human habitation began around 10,000 BC, with significant archaeological sites like Khirokitia showcasing early Neolithic life.
The island’s strategic location led to its occupation by various civilizations, including the Assyrians, Egyptians, and Persians, influencing its culture and governance.
In the classical era, Cyprus became predominantly Greek following waves of Mycenaean settlement around 1400 BC.
The island later fell under Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule, before being annexed by Britain in 1914.
The modern history of Cyprus is marked by ethnic tensions between Greek and Turkish Cypriots, culminating in the island’s division in 1974 following a Turkish invasion.
With that said let’s have a look at some intriguing facts about Cyprus;
1. Cyprus is an island country located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey and west of Syria.
2. Archaeological evidence suggests Cyprus has been inhabited for around 12,000 years, with the first known settlement at Choirokoitia dated to around 9,000 years ago.
3. Cyprus has been divided since 1974 after Turkey invaded the north following a Greece-backed military coup.
4. Nicosia, the capital city of Cyprus, is the only capital city in the world that is divided between two nations – the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
5. The flag of Cyprus has a white background with an orange silhouette of the island above a green olive wreath, which symbolizes peace.
6. Cyprus is home to the world’s oldest manufactured wine, the sweet dessert wine of Commandaria, which can be traced as far back as 2000 BC.
7. Cyprus has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient town of Paphos, which features temples dating from the 12th century BC.
8. Legend has it that Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty, came from Cyprus, rising from the sea foam near a rock off what is now called Aphrodite’s Beach.
9. Halloumi cheese is registered as a protected designation of origin by the EU, meaning only halloumi made in Cyprus has the right to carry the name.
10. Elephants and hippos used to live on the island of Cyprus, as evidenced by fossils of pygmy hippopotami.
11. Cyprus enjoys 326 days of sunshine a year, making it well-known for its sunny climate.
12. The world’s oldest perfumes were found in Cyprus, with archaeologists unearthing the remains of mixing bowls, funnels, and perfume bottles more than 4,000 years old, scented with extracts of lavender, bay, rosemary, pine, or coriander.
13. The only Cypriot Nobel Prize winner is Christopher A. Pissarides, who was jointly awarded the 2010 Nobel Prize for Economics.
14. The highest point in Cyprus is Mount Olympus, also called Chionistra, located in the Troodos Mountains.
15. The largest dam in Cyprus is Kouris Dam, which was opened in 1988 after almost four years of construction.
16. There are only four countries in which you must drive on the left side of the road, and Cyprus is one of them.
17. Cyprus was the first country to ever be governed by a Christian Archbishop.
18. There is a higher population of cats than humans in Cyprus.
19. There is a species of sheep called the Cyprus Mouflon that is only found in Cyprus.
20. Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, after Sicily and Sardinia.
21. The Kourion Archaeological Site, with ruins dating from around the 13th century BC, offers a spectacular view position high on a hill overlooking the coast.
22. Cyprus is a multinational, multilingual, and multicultural country, with inhabitants speaking a mixture of Greek, Turkish, and English.
23. Cyprus won its first Olympic medal in 2012 at the London Olympics.
24. Cyprus is home to 20 rare species of orchids and 371 species of migratory birds.
25. Sirtos is the most popular folk dance on the island of Cyprus.
26. The Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, located on the western shore of the Larnaca Salt Lake, is the fourth most important mosque for Muslims after Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem.
27. Cyprus can be traveled across in a couple of hours, as the length of the island from east to west is only 240 km, and the maximum width from north to south is 100 km.
28. In Cyprus, it is forbidden to eat or drink while driving, and violators can be fined if caught by a traffic inspector.
29. Cyprus is the first country in the world to put its map on the national flag, and Kosovo has followed this example.
30. Nicosia is the only city in Cyprus that has been constantly inhabited since the Bronze Age.
31. Cyprus was once the richest country in the world during the Copper and Bronze Ages when copper from the island was exported to other countries.
32. The oldest domestic cat was found in Cyprus, with archaeologists discovering the remains of a man buried with a cat on the island, dating back about 9,500 years.
33. The largest bank on the island belongs to the Orthodox Church.
34. Despite being an island state, fishing is not popular in Cyprus, and the basis of all national dishes is meat.
35. Cyprus has a mini version of the American Grand Canyon, called the Avakas Gorge, with a special marked Trail.
36. The island of Cyprus is divided into two parts: the northern part is called the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus,” recognized only by Turkey, and the southern part is called the “Independent Republic of Cyprus” or “Greek Cyprus.”
37. There are several cafes in Cyprus that can only be entered by men.
38. Cyprus is the only place outside the UK to host a royal wedding, which was the marriage of King Richard and Queen John on May 12, 1191.
39. Cyprus has a very low crime rate, making it one of the most peaceful places on Earth.
40. In the northern part of the island, the Turkish Cypriots drew a giant flag in the mountains that can be seen on Google Maps when zoomed in.
41. Cyprus was once the richest country in the world during the Copper and Bronze Ages when copper from the island was exported to other countries.
42. The oldest domestic cat was found in Cyprus, with archaeologists discovering the remains of a man buried with a cat on the island, dating back about 9,500 years.
43. The largest bank on the island belongs to the Orthodox Church.
44. Despite being an island state, fishing is not popular in Cyprus, and the basis of all national dishes is meat.
45. Cyprus has a mini version of the American Grand Canyon, called the Avakas Gorge, with a special marked Trail.
46. The island of Cyprus is divided into two parts: the northern part is called the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus,” recognized only by Turkey, and the southern part is called the “Independent Republic of Cyprus” or “Greek Cyprus.”
47. There are several cafes in Cyprus that can only be entered by men.
48. Cyprus is the only place outside the UK to host a royal wedding, which was the marriage of King Richard and Queen John on May 12, 1191.
49. Cyprus has a very low crime rate, making it one of the most peaceful places on Earth.
50. In the northern part of the island, the Turkish Cypriots drew a giant flag in the mountains that can be seen on Google Maps when zoomed in.
51. Cyprus is the first country in the world to put its map on the national flag, and Kosovo has followed this example.
52. Nicosia is the only city in Cyprus that has been constantly inhabited since the Bronze Age.
Conclusion
Cyprus is a remarkable island that offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
From its ancient archaeological sites and rich mythology to its diverse culinary traditions and stunning landscapes, the island is a treasure trove of intriguing facts and experiences.
The unique division of the island adds another layer of complexity to its identity, showcasing the resilience and spirit of its people.
Whether you are drawn to its historical significance, vibrant traditions, or breathtaking scenery, Cyprus invites exploration and discovery.
