Most people come in Cyprus to set up a company and in their effort to do that, forget all about the actual country they are in the secret facts it holds. This is a short list of some of the things you probably were not aware about Cyprus and its people!You might know a handful of facts about the island of Cyprus, such as its location in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea, or the fact that it has been under the rule of many different nations during its long history. But there’s probably plenty you don’t know about this beautiful island, and here are just a few fun facts that may interest you.
- Did you know that Cyprus is known as the Island of Love? This island has a long history of love. It was thought to be the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, Antony gave it to Cleopatra as a gift, and Richard the Lionheart fell in love with a woman there, prompting him to put the Crusades on hold for a year while he stayed with her.
- Did you know that Cyprus does not form part of Greece? Although Greek is one of two recognized languages in Cyprus (the other is Turkish) and the island is on the outskirts of the Greek isles, it isn’t actually part of Greece. In 1960, it became the independent nation known as the Republic of Cyprus after breaking away from British rule.
- Did you know that Cyprus is split into two territories? Because the population of the island is split between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, the geography is also split, with the former inhabiting the southern portion of the island and the latter residing in the north which is held illegally under Turkish occupation.
- Did you know that Cyprus lies at a crossroad? This easterly island is often referred to as the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, and visitors will see influences from all of these regions.
- Did you know that the summer season lasts for about eight months? The sub-tropical climate of Cyprus is fairly typical of the Mediterranean, but the summers there last from April to November, with temperatures staying close to 24°C all summer long.
- Did you know that Cyprus gets snow? Although the winter in Cyprus is relatively short and most of the island sees only rain (and temperatures of about 15°C), visitors during the winter months can see snow on the Troodos Mountains.
- Did you know that Cyprus has its own cheese? Cyprus is the birthplace of halloumi cheese, a mixture of goat and sheep milk that is unique in that it relies on no acid (or acid-producing bacteria) for preparation. Try it fried, grilled, or served fresh.
- Did you know that wine in Cyprus is old. Some of the vineyards on Cyprus are considered to be the oldest in the world to continuously produce their wares. Whether this means their wine is more masterful is for you to decide, so tip a glass to your good health.
- Did you know that visitors in Cyprus are welcome! The people of Cyprus are generally considered to display an old-world sense of hospitality.
So don’t hesitate to book a room at a local B&B or stay at the Cyprus Villas during your trip. You’re bound to come back again and again.