10 fun and interesting Cyprus facts

1. Island Nation with a History of Crossroads

Cyprus is an island nation located in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, situated south of Turkey, west of Syria and Lebanon, and northwest of Israel. It is also known by its alternate spellings of Kipros or Kypros. This strategic location has made Cyprus a crossroads of cultures and civilizations throughout history, with influences from the Middle East, Europe, and North Africa.

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2. Capital divided by "The Green Line"

The capital of Cyprus, Nicosia, is unique in the world for being divided by "The Green Line" between two nations - the Republic of Cyprus (South Cyprus) and the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus. This line, which was established in 1974, is a United Nations buffer zone that stretches for 180km and is patrolled by UN peacekeepers. It serves as a physical barrier between the two countries, and has become a symbol of the ongoing conflict between them.

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3. Mount Olympus: The Highest Peak in Cyprus

Towering above the Mediterranean island of Cyprus is Mount Olympus, the highest peak in the Troodos Mountain Range. Reaching an impressive 6,420 feet above sea level, this majestic mountain is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers alike. With its stunning views and diverse wildlife, Mount Olympus is a must-see for anyone visiting Cyprus.

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4. Cyprus celebrates its independence

On 1st October 1960, Cyprus gained its independence from the United Kingdom, marking the end of a long period of colonial rule. This momentous event was followed by the country becoming a Commonwealth Republic in 1961, a status that it still holds today. This independence has allowed Cyprus to develop its own unique culture, language, and traditions, and to become a vibrant and prosperous nation.

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5. 82% of Cypriots Speak Greek

In the Republic of Cyprus, Greek is the official language, spoken by an impressive 82% of the population. English and Russian are also widely spoken, making the country a great destination for those who are looking to learn a new language or brush up on their existing skills. With its rich culture and history, Cyprus is a great place to explore and experience the beauty of the Mediterranean.

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6. The Greek Orthodox Faith is Prevalent

In Cyprus, the Greek Orthodox faith is the predominant religion, with the majority of the population adhering to its teachings. This faith has been a part of the country's culture for centuries, and is deeply rooted in the traditions and customs of the people. It is a major influence in the daily lives of the Cypriots, from the way they dress and celebrate holidays to the way they interact with each other.

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7. Euro-Friendly Island

The Mediterranean island of Cyprus is a member of the European Union, and as such, its official currency is the Euro, which is shared by many other EU member states. This means that visitors to Cyprus can use the same currency as they would in other EU countries, making it easier to travel and shop around the island.

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8. A Sunny Getaway

Cyprus is blessed with a mild Mediterranean climate, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a sunny getaway. With abundant sunshine even in the winter months and temperatures reaching as high as 40⁰C in the summer, Cyprus is the perfect place to soak up the sun. Rainfall is minimal, so you can be sure of a dry and sunny holiday.

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9. A Stunningly Beautiful Country with an Abundance of Beaches

Cyprus is a stunningly beautiful country, boasting majestic mountain ranges and an abundance of coastal beaches. This makes it a highly desirable tourist destination, with something to offer everyone. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach holiday, or an adventurous mountain trek, Cyprus has it all. With its stunning scenery and diverse range of activities, it's no wonder that Cyprus is such a popular tourist destination.

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10. A Land of Natural Resources

The Mediterranean island of Cyprus is home to a wealth of natural resources, including copper, pyrites, gypsum, asbestos, timber, salt, clay earth pigment, and marble. These resources have been used for centuries to build homes, create art, and craft tools, and are still in use today. Copper, for example, is used in the production of electrical wiring, while pyrites is used in the production of sulfuric acid. Gypsum is used in the production of plaster, and asbestos is used in insulation and fireproofing. Timber is used in the construction of furniture and buildings, while salt is used in the production of food and other products. Clay earth pigment is used in the production of paint, and marble is used in the production of sculptures and monuments. Cyprus is truly a land of natural resources.