Cyprus

Geography and History:

Coming from the Greek word “Kypros” which means copper, the island of the Republic of Cyprus , is located in the northeastern part of the Mediterranean Sea . Third in size after Sicily and Sardinia , it has a land-mass of 9250 sq km and an estimated population of 800,000 people. The island was a former British colony which gained its independence in 1960. It later became a European Union Community member on 1 st May 2004. Today, it is a popular tourist destination which attracts 2.5 million visitors a year.

Due to ethnic tension, the island was invaded by Turkey in 1974 who occupied the northern part of the island. Presently, the island is divided into four main parts namely:

1. The administrative area under the Republic of Cyprus .

2. The administrative area under the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus .

3. The buffer zone separating the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus called the “Green Line”. This region is under the control of the United Nation.

4. The British Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotri and Dhekelia, acquired by the British under the Treaty of Establishment of the Republic.

In addition, Greek Cypriot has three de-jure exclaves. They are the villages of Xylotymvou, Ormidhia, and the Dhekelia Power Station. All these exclaves lie within the British Sovereign Base Area of Dhekelia. Although Cyprus was admitted into the EU in 2004, only the Greek controlled region is recognised internationally.

The island has a rich ancient history dating back as far as 10,000 BC. Archeological remains from the Neolithic era have been found at Shillourokambos, Khirokita, and Kastros confirming the existence of these early settlers in Cyprus . By 1600 BC, the Mycenaean Greeks began settling in Cyprus . The second wave of Greek settlement took place 500 years later around 1100 BC. Because of its strategic location, Cyprus had been ruled in succession by the Assyrians, the Egyptians, and the Persians since 709 BC. After the Persians, the island was brought under the rule of Alexander the Great. For a short spell, the island achieved a measure of political stability which lasted until Alexander's death.

From 58 BC, the Romans controlled Cyprus until 966 AD, with a brief period under the Arabs. The island also played a part in the missionary journey of Paul the Apostle as one of his first stops. In 1191, the crusader king, Richard the Lion Hearted, captured Cyprus . He later presented it to the titular King of Jerusalem, Guy of Lusignan in 1192. By 1492, the Republic of Venice annexed Cyprus and fortified the capital, Nicosia , with the Venetian Walls. Due to continuous attacks by the Ottoman Empire, Cyprus finally felled in 1570.

Under the terms of the Treaty of Lausanne in 1923, Cyprus became a British colony. And in 1960, Cyprus achieved its independence from the British. In 1963, due to the ethnic tension which arose after the abolition of minority rights, Cyprus became a divided country. Tensions between the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots reached such a highpoint that in 1974 it climaxed with the Turkish invasion of Northern Cyprus . Since then repeated efforts by the UN to reunify the country had failed. By 2004, with increased international pressure on Turkey , Cyprus was allowed to join the European Union. Since then, political tensions between Cyprus and Turkey had subsided substantially. This was evident by the demolition of the iconic wall of division at Ledra Street in the heart of the capital by the Greek Cypriots in early 2008. Today, with the Green Line open, it is possible to travel relatively unhindered between the two ends of Cyprus .

ARRIVAL:

Entry Points:

Despite its turbulent political history, Cyprus is a tourist friendly country. Apart from being blessed with beautiful creations of nature, the fusion of modern European cultures with its romantic history makes Cyprus a nostalgic destination. One can choose to enter the country by air or by water. The national airline serving the country is the Cyprus Airways which operate from Larnaka International Airport and Pafos International Airport . Although there is a third International Airport at near the capital, Nicosia , it remains closed since the Turkish invasion of northern Cyprus in 1974. Larnaka International Airport is located about 5 km from the city of Larnaka . The facilities at the airport comprises of a duty free shop, tourist information, bureau de change, and some restaurants. There is also a hotel information and reservation office. Car hire and postal services are also available. Taxi services are available just outside the terminal of the airport. Pafos International Airport is situated about 15 km from the city of Pafos . In comparison to Larnaka Airport , it is slightly smaller. The facilities here include car hire, tourist information, hotel information, a duty free shop, bureau de change, and a cafeteria. Taxis can be hired from outside the terminal of the airport as well.

Alternatively, one can also enter country through the main ports of Larnaka and Limassol. The island is connected to the Greek ports of Piraeus , Rhodes , and Heraklion. There are also passenger ships services coming from the port of Haifa in Israel , Port Said in Egypt and Juniyah in Lebanon .

As a precautionary note, although northern Cyprus is served by Ercan International Airport and the sea ports of Famagusta and Kyrenia, these are not considered legal entry points into country by the Republic of Cyprus . If you enter Cyprus through the northern sector of Cyprus , you can be fined by the immigration and customs officials for illegal entry. However, in practice this ruling is hardly enforced.

Immigration/Visa:

Visa

For citizens of Australia , Canada , UK , and the US , no visa is required for entry into Cyprus . However, a passport with a validity of 3 months beyond the length of intended stay is required. With the exception of those from UK , nationals from Australia , Canada and US are required to show their return ticket prior to entry into Cyprus . In addition, citizens of these countries are entitled to stay up to 3 months without any prior visa application. As Cyprus is a member of the EU community, EU citizens need only to show proof of their EU nationality. This can be in the form of a valid passport or any valid National ID card. No additional requirements are needed. In addition, EU nationals are entitled to stay in Cyprus for an unlimited period. Those who are not from the above listed countries are advised to check with the Cyprus embassy for the visa requirements of their respective country of origin.

Note:

For nationalities that have stamps or visas from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in their passports, entry into Cyprus is only allowed only after the Immigration of the Republic of Cyprus have cancelled these visas or stamps.

Customs Declarations/VAT:

Visitors to Cyprus are allowed for personal consumption certain allowances of alcohol, tobacco, and perfume without any duty payable.

Alcohol:

• One litre of spirits or Two litres of fortified or sparkling wine
• Two litres of still wine

Tobacco:

• 250 grams of Tobacco or 200 Cigarettes or 50 Cigars

Perfume:

• 50 grams of perfume or 250 mililitres of Eau De Toilette

Goods:

• Goods up to the value of 175 Euros

For those under 15 years of age, this value is reduced to 90 Euros.

Duty Free (within the European Union Community)

For EU's visitors importing alcohol or tobacco products for personal consumption within the EU community, there are no limits imposed. However, the onus on the traveler to prove that the goods imported is for personal consumption only. To be on the safe side, visitors are advised to follow the EU's guidelines.

Alcohol:

• Ten litres of spirits
• Twenty litres of fortified wine
• Ninety litres of wine or Sixty litres of sparkling wine
• One hundred and Ten litres of beer

Tobacco:

• 1 Kg of Tobacco
• 200 Cigars
• 400 Cigarillos
• 800 Cigarettes

Prohibited Imports:

It is strictly prohibited to bring into Cyprus any narcotics, pirated goods, firearms, explosives, weapons and pornographic materials. Agricultural produce like seeds or flowers cannot be imported without first getting the approvals from the relevant authorities. One is also prohibited or restricted from importing animals, uncooked meat, fish, and dairy products.

V.A.T. Refund

For those who are from outside the EU, Value Added Tax (VAT) refund is allowed. They will be eligible if:

•  They are non holder of EU passport or EU Identifications.

•  Have not stayed in Cyprus for more than one calendar year for the last two years before the goods were bought

•  The amount purchased is greater than 171 Euro but less than 17,100 Euro

•  The Goods are exported within three months of purchase

For V.A.T. refund claim, visitors are required to:

•  Purchase at stores which display the tax free shopping sign and ask for the tax free document

•  Produce the purchases and passport to custom officials for inspection when exiting the country and have the tax free documents stamped

•  Specify the mode of refund

Vaccinations:

Cyprus does not require any special precautions or vaccination certifications from visitors with respect to Yellow Fever, Malaria, Cholera, Typhoid, or Polio. The island is free from dangerous communicable diseases.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION:

Banking:

Banking Hours:

Banks in Cyprus are only opened from 8.15am until 12.30pm from Monday to Friday. They are not opened in the afternoon except on Mondays from 3.15pm until 4.45pm. Airports' banks however are open the whole day.

Currency:

Prior to Cyprus joining the European Union, the legal tender used to be the Cyprus Pound. Since 1 st January 2008, the legal tender has been changed to the Euro. One euro comprises of 100 cents. The euro notes comes in 7 denominations namely, €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500. Euro coins comes in 8 denominations namely, 1, 2, 5,10,20,50, €1 and €2. One side of the coin shows the national identity while the other side of the coin reflects the same design throughout the EU. The legal tender for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is the Turkish lira.

For those to wanting to procure non Cypriot currencies through Cypriot banks for commercial transactions, prior arrangements are needed.

ATM, Credit Cards and Traveller's Cheques:

International Credit Cards are widely accepted in Cyprus . ATM can be found in most tourist spots and in the major towns. Visitors to Cyprus holding traveller's cheques can cash them at any banks in Cyprus . However to avoid paying additional charges, you are advised to use traveller's cheques denominated in Euros or British pounds.

Business Hours:

Most shops are opened from 8am to 1pm and 4pm to 7.30pm during the summer. During the winter, the shops close at around 6pm. In addition, shops are only opened until 2pm on Wednesday. Late night shopping falls on Friday where most shops close at around 8.30pm.

Public Holidays:

All Banks and most shops are closed during public holidays. The exceptions to the norm are those shops located within the resorts and along the coastal areas. Cyprus observe the following annual public holidays:

1. New Year's Day on the 1 st of January
2. Epiphany Day on the 6 th of January
3. Greek National Day on the 25 th of March
4. National Anniversary Day on the 1 st of April
5. Labour Day on the 1 st of May
6. Assumption of the Virgin Mary on the 15 th of August
7. Cyprus Independence Day on the 1 st of October
8. Greek National Anniversary Day on the 28 th of October
9. Christmas Eve on the 24 th of December
10. Christmas Day on the 25 th of December
11. Boxing day on the 26 th of December
12. Green Monday
13. Good Friday
14. Easter Monday
15. Pentecost (The Festival of the Flood)

Etiquette:

In Cyprus , it is considered rude if you refuse a drink offered to you as a guest. When you are invited for any occasion, bring along a small gift for the host or hostess. Greeting others by shaking hands is the customary way of greeting in Cyprus . You are expected to wear formal clothes for any business function or social functions like weddings. At other times, casual attires will suffice. Confine wearing beachwear to the beaches or pools.

Photography:

You are not allowed to take photographs of military installations or camps. If you wish to photograph any artifacts in the museums, obtain a license first from the relevant authorities. This license can sometimes be obtained at museum's ticketing counter. While taking photographs in Churches, observe the proper courtesy with regards to religious beliefs. Also note that you are not allowed to use flashlights when taking photographs of murals or icons in the churches.

Tipping:

All bills have a service charge added to them. However tipping is still allowed and is dependent upon your own discretion.

Food and Drink:

Food:

Bars and restaurants can be found in all major resorts. Most of them feature international cuisines catering to the tourists. If one wishes to opt for some thing simpler, western fast food restaurants are also available in Cyprus . However visits to Cyprus will not be complete without a taste of the local culinary delights.

The Cypriot Cuisine is largely influenced by Greek and Turkish origins. There are also remnants of its rich history infused into the style of cooking found here. One can see traces of British, French, and Italian inspirations in the way the Cypriots prepare their food. Middle Eastern influences are also weaved into the preparations of popular dishes.

One of the popular national dishes is “ Tava” , a stew of meat prepared with a combination of aromatic herbs and spices. “ Stifado ” is another dish worth tasting. It is a preparation of beef or hare meat bathed with wine and vinegar then stewed together with onions and exotic spices. If one is into roasted food, then the authentic charcoal grilled Cypriot's kebabs is a must. For dessert, there is “ Loukoumades ”. This is the Cypriot doughnut coated with honey syrup.

Drinks:

Popular traditional beverages found in Cyprus include the “Ayrani”, a yogurt based beverage made from whey and the “Triantafylon” syrup made from the Cyprus rose. The triantafylon syrup is served as a refreshing cordial. Although imported Carlsberg beer commands a major share of the beer market, locally brewed KEO beer is also a popular drink. Cyprus has been making wine since the beginning of ancient Greek history. Thus it is not surprising to find wine as part and parcel of Cypriot culture. One of the more popular labels of local wine is the Commandaria wine. This wine is usually served as a dessert wine.

Since 1871, Cyprus has been producing brandy at its Limassol based distilleries. The Cypriot brandy is usually drunk as an aperitif in conjunction with mezze snacks. Zivania, distilled from grape juice, is also a popular spirit among the locals.

Health:

Cyprus provides free or subsidised medical assistance to tourists at all the Accident and Emergency wards of Government Hospitals. In addition, visitors can also use their medical insurance to cover their medical expenses, provided their policy coverage extends to their stay in Cyprus . EU nationals however are required to produce the E111 form or a European Health Insurance card (EHIC) issued by their respective country's health authorities.

Internet:

Internet access is available at all the major hotels, phone centers, and internet cafes. Available bandwidth is dependent on the company providing the internet connection. Services are normally charged by the hour.

Language:

Cyprus has two official languages, which are Greek and Turkish. About 80% of the populations, who converse in Greek, are found within the Greek Cypriot sector. While about 11% of the population who speaks Turkish, they reside within in the northern sector of Cyprus . At the major tourist spots, English, French, and German are spoken as well. Scholars believes that the Cypriot Greek dialect although related to mainland Greek have more in common with ancient Greek than any modern Greek dialects.

What to Pack:

What you need to pack for your trip will depend on the period and duration of your visit to the island. But generally during the month of April and August where the days are warm and enjoyable, summer clothes are recommended. However, you are also advised to pack some light jackets as the night can get slightly chilly as the temperatures drops.

Towards September and October as the summer winds down, the days and evenings will get cooler. Summer clothes with long sleeves are recommended during the daytime while light jackets may be required for the cool evenings.

November to January represent the winter months of Cyprus . For those from Europe, the Cyprus winter is relatively mild comparable to autumn in most European countries. Winter clothes are definitely necessary but not winter coats.

During February and March, the days are fairly cool with the occasional rain. The evenings however can get quite chilly. As such, it is advisable to pack winter clothing for visits during this time of the year.

Post:

Daily airmail services are available to all the developed countries. Mail to Europe usually takes between three to four days to get delivered. The post office hours during the winter are as follows:

Monday to Friday, the opening times are 7.30 am to 1.30pm and 3pm to 5pm except Wednesday. On Saturdays, the post office is only opened in the morning from 8.30am to 10.30am.

For summer, the opening times are as follows:

Monday to Friday, the opening times are 7.30am to 1.30pm and 4pm to 7pm except Wednesday. Saturday's opening times remain the same that is, from 8.30am to 10.30am.

Safety:

Cyprus is a relatively safe place for tourists. The Cypriots are also well known for their friendliness. However it is still prudent to take a few precautions while holidaying in Cyprus as with any places we go.

Cyprus 's Crime:

Anywhere we go, there will always be some level of crime likewise too in Cyprus . However crimes against tourists are not common in Cyprus . One is only advised to be aware of indiscriminate attacks by international terrorists on civilians especially at places frequented by tourists. (Based on information provided by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office.)

Road Safety:

While driving in Cyprus , note that seatbelts are compulsory for both the front and back seats. In addition, it is illegal to use the mobile phone while driving. Lastly, do not drive while intoxicated. It is a criminal offence to drive while drunk. Rush hours times are between 7.30am to 8am in the morning, 1pm to 1.30pm in the afternoon and 5pm to 6pm in the evening. To avoid getting caught in the traffic jam, plan your journey around these times.

Beach Safety:

As Cyprus is an island exposed to the elements of the sea, strong currents are to be expected. Swim only at approved beaches and be constantly aware of the currents.

Shopping:

No holidays are complete without any keepsakes of the places we had visited. Due to its indelible links to the past, Cypriot craftspeople are some of the most talented in the world. The Lefkara lace uniquely identified with Cypriot workmanship is world famous. Jewellery making is also an art which had been practiced by the Cypriots since the beginning of the Greek settlements on the island. The craftspeople are able to produce extremely fine and beautiful pieces of jewellery based on traditional designs as well as contemporary designs. Cypriots silverware is also ideal for gifts or souvenirs. Other locally produced goods worth purchasing as keepsakes are leather goods, pottery, silks, woven curtains, and tablecloths. Last but not least, the local wines and local brandies which are of high quality will make an excellent addition to one's wine collection.

Telephone:

Public Telephones:

International Direct Dialing service is available in Cyprus . The international country code for Cyprus is “357”. To call from aboard to Cyprus , you will need to dial “00357” followed by the 8 digits telephone number. Conversely, to dial aboard from Cyprus , you will need to dial “00” first then followed by the country code of the country that you wish to call. To call locally, you just need to dial the 8 digit telephone number. Public telephones are also widely available within Cyprus . They are either coin operated or Telecard operated.

Mobile Phones:

The country has mobile phone roaming agreements with International mobile phone companies. Coverage exists for those wishing to use mobile phones in Cyprus .

Timezone:

Cyprus is 2 hours ahead of the Greenwich Meridian Time (GMT+ 2). The time is adjusted for daylight saving from the last Sunday of October to the last Sunday of March.

Other Practical Information:

Electricity:

The voltage of the electrical power supply adopted by Cyprus is 240 volts AC at 50Hz. Plugs type is 13amp 3 pin plugs (UK Version).

Tap Water:

Tap water in Cyprus is safe to drink and every home has running tap water.

Measurement System:

Cyprus uses the metric system for weight and measures. Temperatures are calibrated in degrees Celsius.

TRANSPORT:

Cyprus has a relatively developed network of roads. There are 11,593 kilometres of roads covering the whole island. Roughly half of these roads are tarmac. Since 1950, when the railway line was totally dismantled, the land transport system has been the major mode of moving around on the island.

Buses:

Within the Capital City , Nicosia , there are two main bus companies operating. They include the Nicosia Buses and the InterCity Buses. The Limassol Urban Bus Company Ltd operates in the town of Limassol . There are also smaller companies servicing the other Cypriot towns. The bus companies operate everyday except on Sunday and Public Holidays. Rural buses however only operate one or two trips per day. Nevertheless, they are the best way of visiting the remote parts of the island.

Taxis:

There are three categories of taxi services covering the whole island. A surcharge of 15% becomes effective from 10pm to 6am. You are also expected to tip the taxi driver.

Urban Taxi Service:

These are 24 hours taxi services available in all the towns and cities. They can be booked by phone or you can flag one down on the streets. All these taxis use the taxi meters and the meter starting running as soon as the passenger climbs into the taxi. Below is a guide of the charges applicable:

Between 6.01am to 8.30pm

First Charge = €3.07

Per Km = €0.59

Waiting time per hr = €13.68

Luggage exceeding 12kg = €0.99 per piece

Between 8.31pm to 6.00am

First Charge = €4.01

Per Km = €0.71

Waiting time per hr = €15.73

Luggage exceeding 12kg = €0.99 per piece

Note: On public holidays, an extra of charge of €1.96 per ride will apply.

Trans-urban Taxi Service:

These services run between all the major towns of Cyprus every 30 minutes. Operating hours from Monday to Friday begin at 6am to 6pm. On Saturday and Sunday, the services begin at 6am to 5pm. You can book seats on these taxis by phone or through the internet with the taxi companies.

Note: These trans-urban taxis services allow a passenger to share a taxi with several other passengers.

Rural Taxi Service:

These taxis only operate in the villages. They can only be chartered to run from and back to their pickup point. Charges are based on per kilometre rate. Below is a guide of the charges applicable:

Single Trip:

Tariff I = €0.53 per km

Tariff II = €0.59 per km (between 10pm to 6am)

Return Trip:

Tariff III = €0.41 per km

Tariff IV = €0.53 per km (between 10pm to 6am)

Luggage exceeding 12kg = €0.53 per piece

Tariff I and III waiting time per hr = €12.08

Tariff II and IV waiting time per hr = €15.74

There is a minimum charge of €3.04 for the chartering of these taxis.

Cycling:

This is the cheapest way of getting around the island. It is also a very efficient way to see the whole island. Bicycles can be rented from all the resorts and towns. Prices as well as the quality of bicycles vary from places to places. The terrain of the island also provide an excellent opportunity for those into mountain biking. Due to the heavy traffic on the weekends, you are advised to avoid plying the main roads.

Driving:

To drive in Cyprus , you must be holding a valid national driving licence from your originating country or an international driving licence/permit. Major roads in Cyprus are tarmac and meets international traffic standards. Four lanes highways connect Nicosia , the capital, with all the coastal towns namely Pafos, Limassol, and Larnaka. Forest roads or minor roads are also in good conditions although they are not tarmac. In some cases, driving is the only to get to remote location around the island where regular public transports are not available. For the major roads, the maximum speed limit is 100 kilometres per hour while for minor roads it is 80 kilometres per hour. For town areas, the limit is 50 kilometres per hour. Road signs are displayed in dual languages, English and Greek. To hire a car, you will need to be at least 25 years of age and holding a driving licence for at least 3 years.

Note: It is a serious offence to drive while using a mobile phone, not wearing any seat belts and also while intoxicated.

Flights:

For flights in and out of Cyprus , one can use the national airline, the Cyprus Airways serving Larnaka International Airport and Pafos International Airport . For flights to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus , one has to use the Turkish airlines coming from Turkey .

Railways:

There are no railway services operating in Cyprus . The last remaining railway line was dismantled in 1950.

CLIMATE

As Cyprus is seated within the Mediterranean region, it is characterised by the Mediterranean climate of hot summer and mild winter. Summer begins around mid May lasting through mid September. Autumn follows in October to November. The winter months begins in November until the middle of March. The Spring season runs from end of March to the beginning of May.

Average Temperatures:

There are significant differences in temperature between mid summer and mid winter in Cyprus . The average temperature varies from 29 degrees Celsius to 10 degrees Celsius respectively. The difference in day and night temperature is also significantly noticeable. They can range from the highest of 10 degrees Celsius to the minimum of 5 degrees Celsius during the winter months.

Humidity:

During the winter months, the average humidity ranges from 65% to 95%. In summer, the humidity level is around 15% to 30%. The days are characterised by excellent visibility marred very rarely by fog that occurs in the early morning.

Sunshine:

Compared to most countries, Cyprus enjoys long hours of sunshine averaging 11.5 hours per day during summer and 5.5 hours per day during winter.

CAPITAL CITY

History:

Nicosia , also known as Levkosia in Greek, lies on the edge of the Pedhieos River . As well as being the capital of Cyprus , it represents one of the few ancient cities in the world that are still standing today. The city vibrant history dates back as far as the 7 th century before the birth of Christ. Prized for its strategic military location, numerous ancient kingdoms had come to conquer it only to lose it to again to another more military superior force. By 1489, the Venetians took control of the city and fortified it with the famous Venetian walls. Still such measures were inadequate when the Ottoman Empire captured it in eighty two years later. Three centuries later, control of the city was handed over to the British who later made it the city the capital of Cyprus in 1925. After becoming the capital of independent Cyprus in 1960, the city was later divided into two regions with the Turkish invasion in 1974. Today, the city still stands divided by the “Green Line”, a buffer zone maintained by the UN's security forces. Although the City posses an International Airport just west of it, the airport had remain closed since 1974. It is currently served by Larnaka International Airport which is about 34 kilometres southeast of the city.

Historical Attractions:

Adorned with such a diverse and rich history, the city boasts of numerous historical monuments that had stood the test of time. The most prominent of these historical monuments in Nicosia is the Venetian Walls. Other notable attractions and places of interest in Nicosia include the Cyprus museum, Selimiye Mosque, Byzantine Art Museum , Archbishop's Palace, Omeriye Mosque.

Venetian Walls

The most famous historical landmark on the island found here in the city is the Venetian Walls. The wall built by the Venetian to keep the Ottoman out, surround the old city of Nicosia . Shaped like a star with its eleven fortified bastions, the wall is an unforgettable sight. Five of the bastions are laid out evenly in the southern section of the city. Another five bastions are spread out north of the city. The eleventh bastion lies on the eastern part of the city within the Turkish sector.

Famagusta Gate

One of the original three gates which adorn the facade of the Venetian walls, the Famagusta is the best preserved gate among the three gates. It was renovated in 1981 after a century of disrepair. Today it serves as a venue for concerts as well as exhibitions.

Pafos Gate

Also called Porta San Domenico by the Venetians, Pafos gate is the western gate of the Venetian walls. The gate was a former weapons warehouse for the Ottoman Turks. The British later turned it into a police headquarters.

Kyrenia Gate

The Kyrenia gate is the northern gate of the Venetian walls. The gate is also the least maintained gate of the three as it lies within the Turkish Sector.

Museum:

Cyprus Museum

The museum houses some of the finest and most fascinating collections of archeological discoveries in Cyprus . Among some of the highlights displayed at the Museum are 2000 terracotta figures found at Agia Irini in 1929. Other highlights include limestone lions and Sphinx unearthed at Tamassos in 1997. These statues are unique as they displayed very strong influences from ancient Egyptian era.

Ethnographic Museum

This museum has the biggest collection of ethnography and folk arts in Cyprus . The building itself is from the 15 th century era.

Byzantine Art Museum

The museum houses the biggest collection of Cypriot icons dating back from the 5 th centuries to the 19 th centuries. Of particular interests are the icons from the Church of the Virgin Mary of Arakas and the Church of Saint John Lambadistis Monastery .

Palace:

Archbishop's Palace

Almost completely destroyed during 1974, it was rebuilt in the 1980s. Today it is the official place of residence of Cyprus 's Archbishop.

Religious Attraction:

Omeriye Mosque

Dating back to the 14 th century, the mosque was built over the site of a former church, the Augustinian Church of Saint Mary.

Selimiye Mosque

Originally constructed as a church in 1325, the mosque is located in the Turkish section of Nicosia .

Other Attraction:

Ledra Crossing

The crossing is the entry and exit point for those wishing to travel to the Turkish sector.

Art and Cultural Center:

Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre & Librar y

Displaying some very unique and interesting works of art from Greece 's Dimitris Pierides Museum of Contemporary Art.

European Art Gallery

Located within the Makarios Cultural Foundation complex. The Gallery showcases oil paintings from the 16 th to the 19 th Century.

Theme Park. Garden:

Municipal Gardens

A beautiful place for a walk and rest especially after a sight seeing tour.

Ostrich Theme Park

About 30 minutes from Nicosia City , the theme park is regarded to be the biggest Ostrich Park in Europe .

OTHER TOWNS/REGIONS:

Pafos History:

Pafos is located on the south west of Cyprus Island . It lies on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea . The town was the ancient capital of Cyprus which houses the Temple of Aphrodite . Although the roman emperor rebuilt the city extensively after an earthquake in 100 BC, it deteriorated in importance after being ravished by a large earthquake in the 4 th century. The town only returned to significance in the 20 th century when it was linked with better roads. Today, New Pafos is an amalgamation of Old and Lower Pafos . Today, the town harbour is dotted with hotels and taverns catering to tourists who visit the town because of its rich archaeological history. Some of the main attractions of this place are the “Tombs of the Kings”, “Pafos Fort” which overlook the harbour and “Panagia Chrysopolitissa” Church.

Pafos Fort

Initially a Byzantine fortification, the fort was restored by the Lusiganans dynasty in the 13 th century. The fort in 1571 felled into the hands of the Ottoman Turks who later rebuilt and expanded it. Today it is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site together with Pafos town.

Tombs of the Kings

The Tombs of the Kings earned its regal title not from being a burial place for the blue blooded but rather from its imposing appearances. It is a network of chambers and mausoleums, dating back to the time of Christ, craved from a rocky hillside. The site has also been accorded World Heritage status by UNESCO.

Panagia Chrysaliniotissa

“Panagia Chrysaliniotissa” or “Our Lady of the Golden Flax” in English is regarded as the oldest Byzantine church on Cyprus . It was built by Queen Helena Paleologos in 1450. The Church is well known for its large collection of rare religious icons.

Villa of Theseus

This Villa possesses magnificent mosaic flooring.

Other places worthwhile to visit in the Pafos region include the Pafos District Museum and Tripylos Nature Reserve which houses the endangered Moufflon wild sheep.

Limassol City :

Known by the Greek as Lemesos, the city lies in the southern region of the Cyprus Island fringing the Akrotiri bay. The city also represents the major manufacturing centre of Cyprus where wines, beers, tobacco products are manufactured for export. Kolossi Castle 's ruins, where it was reputed that King Richard the Lion Hearted honeymooned here, is to the west of this city. Nearby is also the ruin of an 11 th century Mycenaean settlement. The city also contains the chapel where King Richard and Berengaria were married.

Kolossi Castle

Kolossi castle is nested between the village and vineyards of Kolossi. A remnant of the Knights of Saint John of the 13 th century, the present castle was built over an older building.

Amathus Ruins

Founded in 110 BC by the Phoenicians, the ruins lie east of the city of Limassol . The ruins, now partly submerged by the sea, were also once a capital of a kingdom.

Ancient City of Kourion

The city which lies near Episkopi possesses a magnificent Graeco Roman Theater . During the summer, concerts and Shakespearean plays are held here. The area also contains the “House of Eustolios” which showcases beautiful mosaics. The Acropolis, ruins of a Roman forum is also situated in the area.

Pre Lenten Carnival

Because Limassol is the focus of the Cypriot wine industry, every September a wine festival is held in the town where wine and food are provided free. The highlights of the festival are the decorated floats, bands and dancing.

Apart from the above, the other places of interest in the southern region of Cyprus are:

1. Limassol Castle which houses the Cyprus Medieval Museum .
2. The Convent of Agios Georgios Alamanos
3. The Convent of Agios Nikolaos ton Gaton
4. The Folk Art Museum
5. Limassol District Archaeological Museum
6. Dassoudi Beach
7. Lady Mile's Beach
8. Governor's Beach where the sand are blackish.
9. The Water Mania Leisure Park .

Larnaka City :

Larnaka city lies on the southeastern region of Cyprus . Cyprus ' main airport is also located in the region. It is also one of the main resort cities of Cyprus boasting of a marina, a waterfront promenade trimmed with cafes and palm tress. The place is throbbing hive of activities during the celebration of Kataklysmos' feast during which the whole city converged on the shore for singing, dancing as well as feasting. Water sports are also a major attraction during this time of the year.

The attractions of Larnaka city include:

• The Archaeological Museum
• Larnaka's Byzantine Museum
• The Church of Agios Lazaros
• Larnaka Fort
• Larnaka's Natural History Museum
• Pierides Museum , a private archaeological museum
• Tornaritis Pierides Paleontology Museum
• The Ruins of Kition

Further out south of the city, lies the historic mosque of Hala Sultan Tekesi. The mosque sits on the fringe of Larnaka Salt Lake amidst beautiful gardens and flamingoes. In the village of Kiti , stands the Church of Panagia Angeloktisti . This church has a magnificent 6 th century Byzantine mosaic piece depicting the Virgin Mary and the Child. Westward towards the hills is the village of Lefkara where the world famous Lefkara lace is handmade. The Convent of Agios-Minas is also found here.

Towards the east of the city is Larnaka Bay which has a beach dotted with hotels. Beyond the bay is the British Sovereign Base Area of Dekeleia. Further east is resort of Agia Napa. The coast here is lined with sandy beaches and activity filled resorts. The Waterworld leisure Center and the Go Karts track are ideal for those who holidaying with their family. Besides being the main clubbing resort of Cyprus , Agia Napa also boast of rock climbing and water sports attractions. Near Cape Greco , the coastline is a haven for those who wish to scuba dive or snorkel.

Troodos Mountains :

The Troodos Mountain represents the larger of two ranges that are found on the island. It is southwest of the Mesaoria plain. The highest peak of Cyprus , Mount Olympus is situated here. With a height of 1950 metres, the summit is blanketed with snow during the winter months making it an ideal place for skiing. The best apples on the island is also said to originate from the village of Prodromos atop the high reaches of the Troodos Mountains . Cherries are grown in the Marathasa Valley . The local craft pottery center is situated in the village of Foini . Halfway on the southern slopes of the Troodos Mountains is the Commandaria Region, where the grapes for the local labeled Commandaria wine are grown.

Other places which are of interest include:

• The restored conservation village of Omodos
• The Kykkos Monastery
• The Mesa Potamos Monastery
• The Trooditissa Monastery

There are also nine churches from the Byzantine era listed by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. They are:

1. Panagia tis Asinou
2. Stavros tou Agiasmati
3. Agios Ioannis Lampadistis
4. Panagia tou Araka
5. Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis
6. Panagia tis Podythou
7. Archangelos Michaïl
8. Panagia tou Moutoulla
9. Timiou Stavrou