Following independence
from Britain in 1960, there was a period
of conflict and Cyprus was partitioned in
1974. The island is divided between the
Greek influenced south and the Turkish influenced
north, which are separated by a Green Line
that tourists are not allowed to cross.
Thousands of years at the crossroads of
Europe and the Middle East have left ancient
vineyards, monasteries, Crusader castles
and Roman ruins. Attractions include the
historic city of Nicosia and miles of beach
resorts. The country can be very hot between
June and August. The most pleasant weather
is usually found in April, May, September
and October. Cyprus celebrates Independence
Day on October the 1st and the Turkish Republic
of Northern Cyprus celebrates its national
day on the 15th of November.
Capital City: Nicosia
Population: 776 thousand
Area: 9,000 sq km
Geography: Cyprus has mountains in the
north and south. It is an island located
in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey.
