Welcome to Cyprus – the island of Love.
History of Cyprus
Cyprus is a modern European country which has deep roots in the past that still plays a part in
today’s everyday life.
The countryside of Cyprus it dotted with the ruins of a fascinating history spanning through the
ages as far back as 7000 BC from the Neolithic age. Ancient mythology has it that the Goddess
of Love Aphrodite was said to have been born out of the foam off the coast of Paphos at Petra
tou Romiou. Every province has a fascinating trail of historical monuments to visit, government
run archaeological sites provide interesting outings where by to explore the past and a visit to the
museums is not one to be missed
Being at a strategic cross roads Cyprus has been coveted by many nations from the Greeks,
Assyria, Egypt and Persia, Alexander the Great reclaimed Cyprus only t be taken by the Romans
later, Cyprus was also a gift to Cleopatra by one of her lovers at her downfall, the Roman Empire
reigned supreme again. Saint Paul visited the island trying to convert the locals, he succeeded
but not before he received a whipping from the local pagans who had lashed him to a marble
pillar, “St. Paul’s Pillar”, which still exists in Paphos and then Cyprus became the first country in
history to be governed by a Christian.
When the Roman Empire divided in two Cyprus became part of Byzantium with its capital in
Constantinople. Later the crusader Richard the Lion Heart invaded Cyprus in revenge for an
affront to his bride by the local governor. Then Cyprus was repeated sold, first to the Knights
Templar then to Guy de Lusignan (the Frank ruler) also the Venetians took over who in their plan
to fortify Cyprus created some our most enduring monuments today, from our forts on the coast
to the walls surrounding the old city of Nicosia.
Once again the island of Cyprus was invaded, this time by the Ottomans then Britain later
annexed the island. After years of struggling by the inhabitants to rightfully self govern Cyprus
became independent in 1960. However peace was not to last long when Turkey invaded Cyprus
once again. Cyprus was split nearly in two, the Greek Cypriot side to the South and the illegal
Turkish Cypriot regime in the North.
Cyprus is a country of all seasons where you can play in the snow of the Troodos Mountains in
the morning and bathe in the warm waters of the Akamas peninsular in the afternoon.
You can find yourself in a time warp wandering the ancient ruins and then party and shop till you
drop.
Cyprus has something for all interests and all ages and the local Cypriot hospitality is legendary
All of the past ruling countries have left their mark on Cyprus, architecturally, culturally and
culinary which gives modern Cyprus - a European country at the crossroads of the Middle East
its own unique character.


Rent a luxury holiday villa in Coral Bay Paphos Cyprus
History, Cyprus, Roman, Alexander the Great, Aphrodite, Paphos, Byzantium, historical monuments, Akamas, Troodos, Richard the Lion Heart
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