About Cyprus

Cyprus isn't the only place in the world where you can admire blue skies and sparkling waters, and take miles of beaches and sun-drenched days for granted. But, it is one of the few islands in the Mediterranean that has been able to still retain its mystical and local character, unimpeded by western novelties. It is also where Aphrodite was born, Richard the Lionhearted was married, and Shakespeare set Othello.

 

Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean with a long history whose origins go back nine thousand years. Its geographical position and its natural resources have always made it a target for conquerors. The Phoenicians, Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians, Romans, Arabs, the Frankish dynasty of the Lusignans, the Venetians, Ottoman Turks and the British, all conquered Cyprus in turn.The settlement of Mycenaeans on the island in the 12th century B.C. gave the island its Greek character, which was maintained despite the influences and subjugations it went through during its rocky history. 

 

The transfer of power in 1878 from Turkish to British rule allowed the national movement in Cyprus to grow, culminating in the 1931 uprising and the 1955-59 liberation movement. In 1960 Cyprus was declared an independent Republic as a result of the Zurich-London agreement. 
 

Cyprus joined the European Union on May 1st and, as a result, greatly benefited politically, socially and economically. However, the island has successfully traded goods like good wines, cheeses, figs and olive oil with other countries. 
 

Cyprus has a total area of 9,250 sq km ( 3,571 sq miles). The capital is Nicosia, also referred to as Lefkosia which is the ancient name. Cyprus's major cities are Nicosia, Pafos, Limassol and Larnaca. Our Headquarters are located in Larnaca which is about a 25 minute drive from Nicosia.