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Cyprus in 10 Minutes
Introduction
Presidents of Cyprus
Cypriot Greek and Turkish Communities
Famous Cypriot Artists
Cypriot Cuisine
The Ultimate Cyprus Overview
1. History
2. Geography
3. Culture
4. Language
5. Economy
6. Tourism
7. Cuisine
8. Wildlife
9. Festivals
10. Politics
In a Nutshell
- Capital: Nicosia
- Population: Approx. 1.2 million (2023)
- Official Language: Greek, Turkish
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
Breaking Down the Country
Geographical Highlights
Cyprus boasts stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and a rich history that spans ancient ruins and medieval castles.
Cultural Fusion
Experience a blend of Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern influences in Cyprus's cuisine, music, and architecture.
Modern-Day Cyprus
Discover a thriving tourism industry, vibrant nightlife, and a growing economy in this Mediterranean island nation.
Timeline of Cyprus
Neolithic settlement in Cyprus
Arrival of the Mycenaean Greeks
Cyprus becomes part of the Persian Empire
Cyprus is annexed by the Roman Empire
Christianity becomes the dominant religion in Cyprus
Arab raids on Cyprus
Cyprus is conquered by Richard the Lionheart during the Third Crusade
Venetian rule of Cyprus begins
Ottoman Empire conquers Cyprus
British take control of Cyprus
Cyprus gains independence from Britain
Intercommunal violence between Greek and Turkish Cypriots
Turkish invasion of Cyprus
Cyprus is divided into Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot regions
Cyprus becomes a member of the European Union
United Nations reunification talks for Cyprus
Reunification talks fail, Cyprus remains divided
Discovery of natural gas reserves off the coast of Cyprus
Turkey sends drilling ships into Cyprus' exclusive economic zone
COVID-19 pandemic reaches Cyprus
Vocabulary List
- Nicosia
- Nicosia is the capital and largest city of Cyprus.
- Mediterranean Sea
- Cyprus is located in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea.
- Greek Cypriot
- The majority of the population in Cyprus are Greek Cypriots.
- Turkish Cypriot
- There is a significant Turkish Cypriot population in Cyprus.
- EU member
- Cyprus joined the European Union in 2004.
- Troodos Mountains
- The Troodos Mountains are the largest mountain range in Cyprus.
- Halloumi
- Halloumi is a popular Cypriot cheese.
- Kourabiedes
- Kourabiedes are traditional Cypriot almond cookies.
- Lefkara lace
- Lefkara lace is a traditional handicraft of Cyprus.
- Kolokasi
- Kolokasi is a traditional Cypriot dish made with taro root.
Key Facts
This is the information used in the fact matching game
- Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.
- Cyprus is the birthplace of the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite.
- Cyprus has been inhabited for over 10,000 years.
- Cyprus is a member of the European Union.
- Cyprus is divided into two main ethnic groups, the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriots.
- Cyprus is known for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters.
- Cyprus has a rich history of Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman rule.
- Cyprus gained independence from British rule in 1960.
- Cyprus is a popular destination for tourists, attracting over 3 million visitors annually.
- Cyprus has a traditional dish called halloumi, a type of cheese made from sheep's milk.
- Cyprus has a high standard of living compared to other countries in the region.
- Cyprus has a strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
- Cyprus has a diverse landscape, including mountains, forests, and plains.
- Cyprus has a warm, Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
- Cyprus is a popular destination for water sports such as scuba diving and windsurfing.
- Cyprus has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern traditions.
- Cyprus is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the archaeological site of Paphos.
- Cyprus has a strong tradition of folk music and dance, including the famous dance known as the sousta.
- Cyprus is a popular location for film and television productions, with many Hollywood movies filmed on the island.
- Cyprus has a unique political situation, with the northern part of the island being occupied by Turkish forces since 1974.
Why It Matters
Geopolitical Significance
Cyprus holds a strategic position in the Eastern Mediterranean, serving as a bridge between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Its location has made it a focal point for geopolitical interests, with disputes over control of the island impacting regional alliances and tensions.
Historical Importance
Cyprus has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with influences from Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman civilizations shaping its cultural heritage. The island’s historical significance is evident in its archaeological sites, religious monuments, and traditions that continue to resonate today.
Modern-Day Role
In the modern era, Cyprus plays a key role in international affairs as a member of the European Union and a strategic partner in the Eastern Mediterranean. Its economy is driven by tourism, shipping, and financial services, contributing to its status as a regional hub for trade and commerce.
Cyprus Games
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