At all stages of its long and rich history, Cyprus has been at the crossroads of several world civilizations.
The fusion of progressive European views with the wisdom and prudence of the East has made the island nation distinctive and unique. To quote a popular movie character from the past, Cyprus is a Mediterranean abode, a health resort, and a treasure trove. Moreover, it is a place that leaves one with the desire to return. This blog will delve into the unique discoveries and events in the life of the sunny island and some Cyprus facts, mostly Cyprus fun facts.
National Flag
Cyprus (country) is among countries whose flag depicts their territory. The flag became the symbol of the state after gaining independence from the British crown in the 1960s. According to the Constitution of Cyprus and its internal political rules, the flag was intended to embody neutrality. The colors blue and red, as well as images of the cross and crescent, representing Greece and Turkey respectively, are not allowed on the flag. The copper-toned outline of the island serves as a reminder of the abundant copper ore deposits within its soil. According to one historical version, the name Cyprus may have originated from the Latin word "cuprum" (copper). Two green olive branches are placed on a white background as a traditional symbol of peace. The current version of the flag of the Republic of Cyprus dates back to 2006.
Divided Capital
Facts about Cyprus and its capital. After the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989, Nicosia remained the only European, and in fact, also the last in the world capital, divided into two parts. Since the end of the tragic events of 1974, the city, with a population of over 300,000 people, has been divided by the so-called "Green Line." Since then, its southern half has followed Christian customs, while its northern half follows Muslim customs. Also, interesting facts - there is a buffer zone controlled by the UN forces, being situated between the crossing points. Residents of the city and tourists have the opportunity not only to walk around but even to cross to the other side through checkpoints with a valid passport and appropriate visa. Upon crossing the border, differences in language, culture, religion, and currency immediately become noticeable. For the residents of Cyprus, the situation remains sensitive, but they continue to hope for a swift resolution.
Now we will try to look at more fun facts about Cyprus.
Legacy of Paphos
Some cool facts about Cyprus. Ancient Paphos is a treasury of architectural monuments and a custodian of Cyprus's historical heritage. Due to these features, the city, located in the southwest of the island, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in the 1980s. Paphos was founded three hundred years before our era and served as the capital of the state for over five centuries. The settlement was repeatedly affected by destructive earthquakes, but its inhabitants always rebuilt it from the ruins. According to legend, the ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite, was born from the sea foam near the rock of Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite's Rock). Today, Paphos is a resort and cultural center of the island, with a population of over 36,000. Cypriots believe that the region is ideal for family life and for those who have moved to Cyprus in search of tranquility and natural beauty.
Winemaking
Some interesting facts. The oldest wine label among all the countries in the world belongs to the Cypriot beverage "Commandaria." At the end of the last millennium, during archaeological excavations, artifacts were discovered confirming that winemaking on the island originated about 6000 years ago. Pitchers and pots with grape seeds were found on the site, and local archaeological museums feature ancient mosaics depicting Dionysus, the Greek god of winemaking. In ancient times, Paphos was one of the centers of Mediterranean trade, and the local wine was considered a popular commodity. International expert opinion suggests that it was from Cyprus that winemaking spread to France, Italy, and other countries in the region. Today, the island produces beverages of the highest quality. Small family wineries focus on the taste characteristics of the product rather than mass production. Moreover, these masters primarily use local grape varieties. For connoisseurs of this ancient drink, seven tasting routes are established across Cyprus, three of which are near Paphos and the Troodos mountains.
Diving
Interesting facts about Cyprus. In June of the 1980s, for unknown reasons, the just-launched ferry "Zenobia" capsized and sank in the Mediterranean Larnaca Bay. It was the maiden voyage of the state-of-the-art vessel, which carried about a hundred trucks with various cargoes. According to locals, most of the crew calmly watched the disaster from the bar on the pier. Since then, the site of the shipwreck has become one of the most revered underwater objects in the world and the top diving destination in Cyprus. The sight of the steel giant lying at a depth of about 40 meters leaves a strong impression on divers. Inside the hull, one can observe schools of fish swimming past scattered rusty trucks. Divers should note that the shores of Cyprus are rich in interesting dive sites.
Cats
Some known facts of Cyprus. It is one of the 'cat countries'. Walking the streets of Cypriot cities, one can notice a large number of cats of various breeds around. The mass appearance of these animals on the island dates back to the fourth century BC. At that time, the country faced a natural disaster: after a seventeen-year drought, an enormous number of poisonous snakes appeared in Cyprus. To escape the dangerous reptiles, Cypriots, in despair, abandoned their homes. The solution to the problem was found by Saint Queen Helena, who ordered to bring a thousand cats from Egypt. Settling on the island, the animals coped excellently with their task and rid the local population of the crawling menace. According to legend, the cats initially settled in the Monastery of Saint Nicholas, and the monks were ordered to care for their "saviors." As a sign of gratitude, Cypriots still treat cats with respect, and the holy abode, located 10 km from Limassol, received the second name - "Cat Monastery."
Birthplace of Perfumery
Cyprus is a known birthplace of Aphrodite. But also, it is a birthplace of perfumery. More interesting facts. In 2005, Italian archaeologists conducting excavations on the territory of Cyprus made an amazing discovery from the Bronze Age. They worked around the village of Pyrgos, near Limassol, they found the remains of an ancient perfume factory and a finished product over four thousand years old. The fragrances containing extracts of lavender, rosemary, cinnamon, and coriander, prepared from local plants, were stored in small semi-transparent bottles. Well-preserved mortars, pitchers, and several stills were also found during the excavations. The area of the factory, according to scientists' conclusions, amounted to about 4,000 m², indicating large-scale production. Apparently, perfumes were a commodity of trade with good export potential at that time. According to Cypriot mythology, an abundance of scents was attributed to the image of Aphrodite. Subsequently, several ancient fragrances were recreated by modern perfumers.
Lifestyle
The male population of the Mediterranean island traditionally prefers to spend time with friends at their favorite coffeehouse. By the way, the most popular drink here is frappé - cold coffee with sugar and milk. There is a folk belief in Cyprus about how well a foreigner has adapted to local life: a thirty-minute meeting with colleagues will astonish the natives with its brevity. However, if the gathering lasts more than two hours, the expat starts getting used to the local pace. Cypriots are characterized by their leisurely lifestyle, and they try to savor every moment of life. This tranquility is also evident in the working process: all government structures are active only until lunchtime, and private companies take a three to four-hour siesta during the day. It should be emphasized that the Cypriot way of life is one of the reasons for their longevity.
Carnival
The Limassol Carnival is the liveliest and most massive Mediterranean celebration for the people of Cyprus. For many centuries, the tradition of "Apokries," a costume folk parade, has been preserved here. Over time, the scale of the event has grown so much that it has become a world symbol of originality and an integral part of the city's cultural life. The carnival begins in the second half of February on the day known as "Tsiknopempti." This name is associated with the appetizing aromas of roasted meat that spread throughout the city. During this period, Cypriots consume a large amount of this product before the Great Lent begins. On the same day, in the historic center of the city, the coronation ceremony of the King and Queen of the carnival takes place, marking the beginning of the festivities. To participate in the carnival, locals must show imagination and be in a cheerful mood. For two weeks, the city's streets are filled with songs and dances, numerous competitions, and comedy masquerades. Artists and masters of other arts hold colorful exhibitions of their works. Every year, the carnival attracts not only Cypriots but also numerous foreign guests from different countries.
Women Behind the Wheel
Women in Cyprus are increasingly using their cars more often than men, as noted by Alix Capper-Murdoch, a well-known automotive journalist who moved to the island. She previously worked as a stunt driver in films featuring world stars like Kanye West and Jackie Chan, and has served as a Formula 1 commentator, organizing car races worldwide. Currently, Alix represents Cyprus on the jury of the global contest "Women's Car of the Year." She observes that more women from different backgrounds are opting for family cars. Unlike men, who typically commute to their offices and back, women often make more frequent, yet shorter trips, handling a significant share of transporting family members and managing household tasks. Alix plans to launch her successful course, "Women Behind the Wheel," designed to teach women safe driving skills while helping them save time and money on the road. Traveling across the island reveals its beauty and diversity, as hospitable Cypriots create all the conditions for a wonderful vacation and relaxation after the hustle and bustle of larger cities. For those who cherish it, Cyprus offers thrilling adventures and opportunities for new discoveries.
Do you want to know more Cyprus country facts? About Hallomi, Kourion, UNESCO?
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Also, read:
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- Cyprus Developers Alliance (CDA Group): Affordable Luxury in Cyprus
- Introducing Makespace Development Ltd: A Creative and Professional Property Developer in Cyprus
- Larnaca Airport: The History of Cyprus' Main Air Gateway
