 |
Cyprus, an island of legends that basks
year-round in the light of the warm Mediterranean sun. A historic
island, the third largest in the Mediterranean, where modern
travellers retrace the footsteps of legendary figures as diverse
as Alexander the Great, St. Paul, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Today Cyprus is a modern country that
effortlessly marries European culture with Ancient Greek-Roman
enchantment. You will discover a compact world of alluring
beaches and fragrant mountain peaks, vineyards studded with
olive trees, citrus groves, old stone villages and ancient
ruins that stir the imagination.
|
|
The people of Cyprus owe their individuality and warmth to
their amazingly colourful history. This sun-drenched island
has been at the crossroads of world events for centuries.
Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and British influences (to name just
a few) have all left their mark. Perhaps that's why Cypriots
have a special gift of making visitors feel at home as soon
as they arrive on the island. The warm welcome, and the unhurried
pace of daily life, makes Cyprus an instant favourite of anyone
who comes here. However, Cypriots managed to positively and
creatively assimilate the foreign influences from all the
invaders and to maintain unchanged the Greek language and
the cultural heritage. Incidentally, Greek Cypriots are the
vast majority of the island population and Greek is one of
the two official languages of Cyprus; the second one is Turkish.
In 1974 Turkey invaded Cyprus and occupied
the northern part of the island. More than a quarter of a
century after the invasion by Turkish troops, 37% of the island
is occupied and Cyprus still remains the only divided country
in Europe. However, Cyprus can be proud of all its important
achievements, the greatest of all being its accession to the
European Union.
With a modernized economy Cyprus is
in position to be part of a new peaceful and prosperous Europe
in which all Cypriots together, will be able to utilise the
vast opportunities that membership offers. The challenge facing
Cyprus is to ensure that both Greek and Turkish communities
have a role to play in the future of the country. A viable
and functional solution to the Cyprus problem will ensure
human rights for all the Cypriot European citizens and this
will guarantee security and well being.
Lefkosia (Nicosia)
The capital presents two distinct facets:
- The old original part of the city,
which encloses monuments of historical interest as well
as little shops, cafes and taverns, surrounded by strong
stone walls built by the Venetians in the 16th century.
- A busy modern metropolis.
During the Venetian expansion eastward
in the 1500's, Lefkosia (Nicosia) was fortified with imposing
stone walls and massive gates. The famous Famagusta Gate still
stands today, proudly protecting the still ancient town within
from the modern city beyond. Through the Gate lies Laiki Geitonia,
an old section that has been lovingly restored. Weave your
way through narrow stone streets where crimson flowers cascade
from window pots and the aroma of traditional baking wafts
through open doorways. Explore jewellery and handicraft shops,
dine in charming taverns, and marvel at churches centuries
old.
|
