CYPRUS HISTORY

THE TEST OF TIME Few countries can trace the course of their history over 10.000 years, but in approximately 8.000 B.C. the island of Cyprus was already inhabited and going through its Neolithic Age. Of all the momentous events that were to sweep the country through the next few thousand years, one of the most crucial was the discovery of copper - or Kuprum in Latin - the mineral which took its name from "Cyprus", the Greek name of Cyprus, and generated untold wealth. The island's strategic position, its copper deposits and its timber attracted the first Greeks who came to the island over 3.000 years ago at the end of the Trojan wars. They settled down bringing in with them and establishing the Greek identity, language and civilization. Over the centuries Cyprus came under the sway of various rulers including the Egyptians, Assyrians, Persians, the successors to Alexander the Great and the Romans, before Cyprus became part of the Byzantine Empire. Later came the Crusaders, the Frankish Lusignans and Venetians, Ottomans and British. Cyprus won its independence in I960, for the first time in 3.500 years, but the Greek identity of language and culture has been retained. In July 1974 Turkey invaded Cyprus and since then 37% of the island in the north is being illegally occupied by Turkish troops who acted in violation of all principles governing international relations.

NATURE'S GIFTS From the topmost point of Mount, Olympos to the coasts and sweeping plains, Cyprus is nature's island. Many exquisite wild flowers grow in splendid profusion in springtime. Trees, shrubs and plants luxuriate in the Mediterranean sunshine all year round. I Bright bougainvillaea blazes vividly against white walls, reflecting its splendour in the crystal clear waters. Cyprus is also prized for its bird life, and the migratory birds that use the country as a stopover are eagerly awaited between seasons. Due to the wonderful climate and variety of scenery, the island offers endless opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor sports fans. Activities such as angling, mountain-hiking, hiking, gliding, golf, sea sports and yachting are but a few of the special activity holidays that the island offers. With so many possibilities, Cyprus is a bird watcher's paradise ... an archaeologist's heaven ... a photographer's dream ...

COLORFUL CULTURE It is probably no surprise with a history so long, that Cyprus is remarkably rich in culture. Its importance has been honored by UNESCO which has included nine of the island's Byzantine mountain churches and the entire town of Kato Pafos, Palaepafos and Choirokoitia in its World Cultural Heritage List. Wherever you tread in Cyprus you are reminded of a strong tradition that is kept alive from generation to generation through the many events which are celebrated. Hardly a week goes by in Cyprus without a celebration of some sort, whether it be a colorful festival or homage to a saint on one of the numerous 'name' days. The 'Panigiri', a traditional open-air fete, takes place mainly in the villages on the occassion of a saint's name day. Easter, the most important Greek Orthodox religious event, is celebrated with solemnity, joy and hope. Carnival is one of the best known Cypriot celebrations, along with 'Anfhestiria', the Spring Flower festival, and 'Kataklysmos' - the festival of the Flood - which coincides with Pentecost. Throughout the year there are also exhibitions, concerts, drama and folk festivals. :. Cypriot culture is also reflected in the rich folk art of the island. Age-old crafts, handed down from one generation to another, are faithfully carried on to this day by skilful hands and nimble fingers, fashioning handicrafts, both decorative and useful, that would grace any home. The Greek Orthodox Church has been the mainstay of religion in Cyprus since the 1st century A.D., and in a society where the church continues to play an important role, old style values have been maintained and the family unit retains close-knit qualities that keep colourful customs alive, and underline the warmhearted character of Cyprus.

THE GOOD THINGS IN LIFE There's no getting away from it, cuisine is one of the most important criteria for determining a good holiday, and in this respect Cyprus is not likely to be found lacking. Apart from the fact that the standard of freshness and hygiene is high, visitors are usually very taken with Cypriot food and the friendly service that goes with it. There is a wide range of cuisine, with hotels and smart restaurants tending to serve international fare, and a choice of speciality restaurants all over the island. Fish tavernas are dotted all along the coastline, but the traditional Cypriot meal is the 'meze' - which really means a mixture. It consists of many dishes, all vying for space on your table, including delicious dips, moussaka, tavvas, koupepia (stuffed vine leaves), etc, all accompanied by locally brewed Cyprus beer, or one of the island's excellent wines.