Key Facts about Cyprus

Key Facts about Cyprus

• Location: Cyprus is an island nation in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, located about 65 km south of Turkey and 100 km west of Syria.
• It is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean, after Sicily and Sardinia, with a total area of 9,251 sq. km.
• Capital: The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia, which is also the only divided capital city in the world.
• Terrain: The terrain includes the Kyrenia Mountains in the north, the Troodos Mountains in the south, and the Mesaoria Plain in between.
  • Highest point: Mount Olympus (Troodos), at 1,951 m, is the highest point on the island.
• Climate: Cyprus has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
• History: Cyprus gained independence from British colonial rule in 1960 and became the Republic of Cyprus.
  • The island is now divided between the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus in the south and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the north, recognized only by Turkey.
• Separation line: A United Nations peacekeeping force patrols the “Green Line”, which separates the two parts of the island.
• Official language: Greek and Turkish, and English is widely spoken.
• Agriculture: Major crops include citrus fruits, potatoes, grapes, and olives.
• Economy: The Cyprus economy is dominated by services, particularly tourism, finance, and shipping.
  • It has historically been known for its copper, with mining dating back to 2500 BCE.
• Major historic and UNESCO sites include Petra tou Romiou, ancient Paphos, Choirokotia, and the painted churches of the Troodos.