20 Interesting Facts About Cyprus

Cyprus combines thousands of years of history, ancient mosaics, medieval castles, mountain villages and beaches that earn the Blue Flag every year. Here are 20 facts that will help you get to know the island before your trip.

20 interesting facts about Cyprus

1. Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily and Sardinia.

2. The Republic of Cyprus has been a member of the European Union since 2004 and has used the euro since 2008.

3. Since 1974 the island has been divided: the north is controlled by the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which is recognised only by Turkey.

4. Nicosia is the last divided capital in Europe: the dividing line runs right through the old town.

5. Cyprus drives on the left, a legacy of British rule, which lasted until 1960.

6. The United Kingdom still has two sovereign military bases on the island: Akrotiri and Dhekelia.

7. The official languages of the Republic of Cyprus are Greek and Turkish, and most residents speak fluent English.

8. According to myth, Aphrodite rose from the sea foam near the rock of Petra tou Romiou between Paphos and Limassol.

9. The archaeological sites of Paphos, including the Roman mosaics and the Tombs of the Kings, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

10. The painted churches of the Troodos Mountains, with frescoes from the 11th to 16th centuries, are also protected by UNESCO.

11. The island's highest point, Mount Olympus in the Troodos range, reaches 1,952 m. In winter it has a ski centre.

12. Commandaria, a dessert wine from the Limassol region, is considered one of the oldest named wines in the world.

13. Halloumi cheese has Protected Designation of Origin status in the EU.

14. In the Middle Ages, Kolossi Castle near Limassol was a base of the Knights Hospitaller, and the name of their commandery gave Commandaria wine its name.

15. The Neolithic settlement of Choirokoitia dates back to the 7th millennium BC and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

16. The earliest traces of people on Cyprus are about 12,000 years old.

17. Cape Greco in the southeast of the island is a nature park with sea caves and cliffs, popular with divers.

18. Sea turtles lay their eggs at Lara Bay on the Akamas Peninsula.

19. In winter the Larnaca Salt Lake becomes home to thousands of flamingos.

20. The sun shines on Cyprus about 340 days a year, so the swimming season lasts from May to October.