CYPRUS IN OUR HEARTS –
Cyprus is the third largest island of the Mediterranean at the south-eastern corner of the European Union and is situated at the cultural, lingual and historic crossroads between Europe, Asia and Africa. It is an island rich in history and tradition. Its name was established by Homer’s time as it is mentioned both in the Iliad and the Odyssey. Cyprus is also known as the Island of Aphrodite, as according to Greek Mythology, the Goddess Aphrodite (= born of the foam) was born near Venus Rock on the coast ofPafos, hence the adjective Cypris is ascribed to the Goddess.
The history of Cyprus begins with the first appearance of humans on the island about the 10th millennium B.C. while the first chaeans settled in Cypriot ports in 1400 B.C. The geographical location of Cyprus played an important role in its troubled history as it became a reference point for many civilisations: Phoenicians, Assyrians, Persians, Egyptians, Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, Franks, Venetians, Ottomans and British, each leaving behind visible signs all over the island. The island is an open museum: Neolithic settlements, ancient Greek and Roman theatres, mosaics, Byzantine and Latin Churches and Monasteries, Venetian walls, Byzantine castles, Ottoman Mosques and colonial buildings.
Cyprus is composed of fertile valleys, vineyards, endless beaches and high mountains, with the Troodos mountain range occupying he best part of the north west of the island. Fragrant pine forests and snowy mountain tops co-exist with the blue waters of the Mediterranean. The climate is Mediterranean with long, hot summers and mild sunny winters with low rainfall that permits touring of the island.
The biggest cities in Cyprus are the capital Lefkosia (Nicosia), Lemesos (Limassol) Larnaka and Pafos, while on the coastline the areas of Agia Napa, Paralimni and Polis Chrysochous have developed into popular tourist destinations. Many regions of Cyprus preserve the traditional way of life to this date, keeping alive their traditions and customs. Cypriot folk art (weaving, embroidery, woodcarving, pottery and silversmithing), Cypriot wines and Cyprus cuisine are famous all over the world. Cypriots are famous for their friendliness while a great privilege for the visitors is the easy communication in English.