Cyprus Key Facts

Essential Cyprus Key Facts…

Cyprus Key Facts – as with all countries, it’s good to know the essential information about Cyprus before you arrive.

Due to it’s strategic position in the Mediterranean, this lovely little island has witnessed many troubles and invasions over the years.

The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia which is the last divided city in Europe and it has remained like this since the Turkish invasion of 1974.

Cyprus Key Facts – The northern part of the island – Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) – is not recognized by the UK, EU or UN, or by any other country except Turkey.

From the map below you can see the line that divides the two parts stretching from Morphou then through Nicosia and onto Famagusta.
Patrolled by United Nations troops and at the time of writing (March 2013) there are 5 active checkpoints which can be used for crossing the green line.

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Cyprus Key Facts – The Language of Cyprus

Before the invasion of 1974 the people of the island lived side by side and the main languages spoken were Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot. Similar to Greek but with a heavier accent – rather similar to the difference between English and Scottish.

Today the main language spoken in southern Cyprus is Greek Cypriot, with some Turkish and English which used to be a second language for many people.
French was also taught in schools so most people were highly skilled in languages.
There are many Russian and Polish people living here now so street names are also in Russian as well as English.
For those visiting the island whose first language is English, I highly recommend the Michel Thomas method of learning Greek .
Even if you speak just a little Greek it will be greatly appreciated by the locals.
Travel inland and you may need to take a phrase book if your Greek isn’t that good.

Cyprus Key Facts – Size and Location of Cyprus

Cyprus is at the crossroads of Africa, Asia and Europe and has an exciting mix of east and west which is reflected in the cultural traditions and lifestyle.

It is the third largest Mediterranean Island after Sardinia and Sicily.
It covers an area of 9,250 sq km (3,572 sq miles) and the coastline stretches for approximately 400 miles.

Cyprus Key Facts – Cyprus Currency

Since January 2008 the Euro replaced the Cyprus pound and is the official currency.
In the northern part of the island the currency is the Turkish Lira.

Phones and Sim Cards

With Cyprus public pay-phones you can use coins and cards.

The dialing code from the UK to Cyprus is + 357

Legal System in Cyprus

The legal system is based on the British legal system which Cyprus inherited from the UK as a result of British Colonial rule.

Public Holidays

All public services, private businesses, banks and shops are closed on public holidays. However, in the coastal resorts many shops and some services remain open. Banks are closed on Easter Tuesday but not on Christmas Eve.

January 1st – New Year’s Day
January 6th – Epiphany Day
March 25th – Greek National Day
April 1st – National Anniversary Day
Easter in CyprusGreen Monday (50 Days before Greek Orthodox Easter) Good Friday (Greek Orthodox Church) Easter Monday (Greek Orthodox Church) Pentecost – Kataklysmos (Festival of the Flood)
May 1st – Labour Day
August 15th – Assumption of the Virgin Mary
October 1st – Cyprus Independence Day
October 28th – Greek National Anniversary Day
Christmas in Cyprus
December 24th – Christmas Eve
December 25th – Christmas Day
December 26th – Boxing Day