Official name: Republic of Cyprus. What is the area of Cyprus

Most of the island's inhabitants work in the tourism sector. Tourism here is the main resource for replenishing the country's budget with foreign currency.

The island and its inhabitants enable tourists to explore Cyprus according to their needs, making it easier to obtain. If you want to have an active holiday, cycling routes are at your disposal. There are 52 nature trails to get acquainted with the unique flora and fauna of the island.

There is always something interesting going on here, but you need to know the mentality of the Cypriots, their rituals, habits, norms of behavior in order to be aware of that. In any season, tourists can go to a holiday or sporting event. Connoisseurs or simply lovers of the “nectar of the gods” will be pleased with the wine routes that will introduce you to. You can find out how grapes are grown, how wine is produced, and, finally, taste the drink by choosing one of the excursions to the famous wineries of the island.

A huge number of sacred places, among which, will provide an opportunity, having become acquainted with them, to learn about the path of Cypriots to Christianity, about the roots of the blessed land, about the shrines that have found shelter in Cyprus. The variety of museums will simply keep you on the island for several days.

No matter what part of the country you come to, you will always find a beach nearby. 57 beaches of the island (among them) are marked with the Blue Flag of the European Union for the level of infrastructure facilities on them and environmental cleanliness. The beaches on and on are popular among vacationers.

Island resorts: Larnaca, Paphos, Famagusta, Kyrenia are popular among tourists.

Nicosia surprises not only with its historical and architectural buildings, but also with an interesting combination of antiquity and modernity. The Limassol region is full of legends about kingdoms and kings. You will learn everything about winemaking here. The Troodos mountain range will impress lovers active rest. The Ammochostos region will captivate you with its sparkling waters and golden sand. Ancient city Larnaca (about 4 thousand years old) offers tourists everything they need to relax and get acquainted with the history of the island.

The fact that the entire Kato Paphos area is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List speaks volumes about the abundance of cultural wealth it contains. There is a lot of entertainment on the island for children: in Ayia Napa, in Limassol. You can rest assured that it is possible, and it will be memorable.

In 2015, about 2.65 million people visited the island. Largest quantity people come from the UK and from Russia (38% and 23% respectively). Guests from Germany are joining them. During January - October 2016, up to 2,974,412 people visited the island (87% of tourists came to relax, 7% to visit relatives, 5% to work).

Tourists love holidays on the Mediterranean Sea. The most popular destination– these are, of course, Turkish hotels. But next to Turkey there is a small island of Cyprus - a small pearl of the Mediterranean.

Where is Cyprus? Usually people think that this is part of Greece, and this opinion is completely wrong. Cyprus is small, but independent country and has never been part of Greece. What sometimes leads to confusion is that people confuse Cyprus with Greek island Crete.

What is known about Cyprus?

Cyprus is an island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is located south of Turkey, north of Israel, west of Syria and Lebanon. After the islands of Sicily and Sardinia, Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Although it is geographically located in Asia, politically it is a European state.

Where is Cyprus on the world map? In which country? The Republic of Cyprus is an island state that does not have a land border with any mainland. According to official data, the Republic of Cyprus occupies 98% of the island's territory, the remaining two percent is occupied by the British military bases of Akrotiri and Dhekelia.

The nearby islands of Agios, Geronisos, Georgios, Kila, Glyukiotissa, Cordylia, Kiedes and Mazaki also belong to the Republic of Cyprus. The British base of Akrotiri is surrounded by Greek Cyprus, and Dhekelia also borders the UN buffer zone. This small part of the island's territory is under the sovereignty of Great Britain, but is not part of it. Cyprus gained independence in 1960.

Cyprus conflict

Despite the constitution, which guaranteed power-sharing between the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriot minority, the two groups clashed. The end result was Turkey's occupation of the northeastern part of Cyprus. In 1983, Türkiye announced that the territory would now be called the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus". A narrow buffer zone between the two Cypriot ethnic groups is administered peacekeeping forces UN.

The authorities of the Republic of Cyprus control 60% of the island's territory (ethnic Greeks live here), 38% of the territory is under the control of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (population - ethnic Turks). After the division of the island there was a large-scale relocation: Greek Cypriots moved to the south, Turkish Cypriots to the north. Both population groups live only in the city of Pyla under a UN-appointed administration.

The Turkish invasion in 1974 made the island famous. Where Cyprus is located and in which country is now known all over the world.

Story

Cyprus is located at the crossroads of three continents. Cyprus - what kind of country is it and where is it located? Historically, what a country it was! The island was influenced by the Romans, Egyptians, Persians, Turks and British. At one time it was part of Byzantium, Venice and Ottoman Empire, was a British colony.

The climate in Cyprus is temperate, Mediterranean with hot summers and cool, wet winters.

Capital of Cyprus

The cities of Cyprus are filled with many attractions and historical monuments.

Nicosia is the capital of the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Nicosia is famous for the Gothic Hagia Sophia Cathedral and many fortifications. All attractions are concentrated in the Old Town. Walking through the narrow streets of the Old Town is a fascinating journey in itself, although many of the buildings are abandoned and are already beginning to collapse.

Major resorts of the Republic of Cyprus

Where is the island of Cyprus located, in which country? We already mentioned above that it is located in a country called the “Republic of Cyprus”, which is an autonomous state. The majority of tourists come to the island where Greek Cypriots live. After all, this is where popular resorts with developed infrastructure are located. Best places for a holiday in Cyprus, these are the resorts of Protaras, Ayia Napa, Paphos, Larnaca and Limassol.

Limassol is the second largest city on the southern coast of Cyprus

This is a very noisy and fun resort destination filled with hotels, shops, bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Life in Limassol does not stop for a minute and is in full swing 24 hours a day.

Larnaca – a city of outstanding beauty

This is a resort city with numerous attractions, convenient embankments, picturesque views and excellent beaches. It is located on the southern coast of Cyprus and is the third largest city in the country. Larnaca International Airport is located on the outskirts of the city.

Paphos is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty.

The city is divided into two parts: Old and New Paphos. This is a historical place still retains its ancient charm and has been declared a UNESCO site world heritage. Stunning beaches, parks, historical museums and a vibrant night life– all this represents modern Pathos.

Ayia Napa is a resort town in the eastern part of Cyprus

In the very center is ancient monastery, which nowadays operates as a museum. Cape Cavo Gkreko is located 10 minutes drive from the city and is considered one of the most beautiful places around. Sandy beach and pure water attract many tourists.

Northern Cyprus

Where is Northern Cyprus and what territory of the island does it occupy? The border between the two states runs almost in the middle of the island. Ethnic Turks live in the northern part. Tourists are very fond of visiting Northern Cyprus due to the fact that a visa is not required for entry. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is recognized as an independent state only by Turkey. You cannot fly here on a direct flight, only in transit through any Turkish airport.

Famagusta – population is only about 50 thousand. It used to be a bustling seaside town that attracted thousands of tourists. After the Turkish landing, most Greek Cypriot residents fled their homes. The city was plundered by marauders. It is now considered a deserted "ghost" town with hundreds of abandoned houses and hotels.

Kyrenia is a city on an island under the de facto control of Northern Cyprus. Kyrenia has many historical castles and bastions. IN famous Museum shipwrecks is the oldest ship raised from the seabed. To the east and west of the city there are clean sandy beaches. Some of them are modernly equipped, with many restaurants and cafes built on them, while others have much more modest conditions.

The island where Cyprus is located is a place of legends and fairy tales, the place where Aphrodite emerged from the foam. Cyprus is an island of sun, sea, love and tranquility. All beaches have been awarded blue flags for cleanliness and excellent service.

Based on reviews from tourists and travelers, we can say that South part The islands are more popular among holidaymakers. There are more hotels here, which means there is more choice in determining where to stay. The entire coastline is dotted with restaurants, souvenir shops and various entertainment. In the northern part, the most visited resort is Kyrenia. This city attracts with its clean sandy beaches; people come here for a calm and quiet holiday.

Now you know what the island of Cyprus is, where it is located, in which country. Cyprus is a country itself, although it is divided into parts by warring ethnic groups.

Useful information for tourists about Cyprus, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of Cyprus, cuisine, features of visa and customs restrictions of Cyprus.

Geography of Cyprus

The Republic of Cyprus is a state located on the island of the same name in the eastern part Mediterranean Sea.

The coastline of the island in the north is rugged and rocky, in the south it is flat, with long sandy beaches. In the center and southwest is the vast old volcanic massif of Troodos (highest point - Olympos, 1951 m).

State

State structure

An independent sovereign republic with a presidential form of government, the legislative body is a unicameral parliament (House of Representatives). Since 1974, the northern part of the island (3354 sq. km.) has been occupied by Turkish troops with the formation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, unrecognized by the world community.

Language

Official language: Greek, Turkish

English is widely used, less often French and German. Many hotels have Russian-speaking staff.

Religion

Orthodoxy - 77%, Islam - 18%.

Currency

International name: EUR

It is better to exchange currency in banks and at the airport.

History of Cyprus

Ancient history The island dates back to the 7th millennium BC. The first settlers of Cyprus left mysterious inscriptions on the stone blocks that have not yet been deciphered.

At the beginning of the 2nd millennium BC, the Greeks appeared on the island. They founded rich city-kingdoms in Cyprus on the model of the ancient Greek city of Mycenae, bringing with them the Greek religion and the Greek way of life. Greek state uniform The device existed in Cyprus until the era of the Romans.

The name of the island comes from the Latin root "cuprum" - copper. Innumerable natural resources- deposits of copper and iron, reserves of emeralds, cypress and cedar forests, groves of olive trees and sugar cane plantations, exotic fruits and vegetables have always made Cyprus a tasty morsel for foreigners. Before our era, the Egyptians, Phoenicians, Assyrians and Persians took turns establishing their dominance in Cyprus, poetically calling it “the land of the setting sun.” Alexander the Great finally liberated the island from the invaders, but after the collapse of his empire, Cyprus became a province of the empire of Ptolemaic Egypt, and later, from 58 BC, it passed to the Romans.

In 330 AD, after the collapse of the Roman Empire, the island became part of the Byzantine Empire. Since then, Cyprus has shared the fate of the Greek Orthodox world.

During crusades Cyprus was conquered by Richard Lion Heart on the way to the Holy Land. Richard handed it over to the knightly order of the Templars, and they, in turn, to the Louisignans from France, who founded a kingdom on the island according to the Western feudal model (1192–1489). The last queen of this kingdom transferred ownership of the island to the Venetian Republic. In 1571, the island was captured by the Turks and came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire. Cyprus was under Turkish rule for more than three centuries.

In 1878, Turkey provided Cyprus to Great Britain in exchange for promised assistance in the event of war with Russia. Until 1959, Cyprus was a British colony. On August 16, 1960, after the liberation struggle of the Greek Cypriots, Cyprus was declared independent state- Republic. Archbishop Makarios became the first president of the island republic.

In July 1974, the Greek military junta launched an armed rebellion against the government of Makarios. Türkiye took advantage of the moment. Under the pretext of protecting the Turkish Cypriots, it occupied 37% of the territory of Cyprus, which it illegally holds to this day.

Since April 1, 2004, when southern Cyprus (Greek) joined the EU, the borders between the two parts of the island have been open to the free movement of tourists and local residents.

The ancient history of the island dates back to the 7th millennium BC. From the first settlers of Cyprus, mysterious inscriptions remained on the stone blocks, which have not yet been deciphered....

Popular attractions

Tourism in Cyprus

Where to stay

Cyprus has always attracted thousands of tourists from all over the world with its crystal clear seas, hot sun, historical monuments And good service. Hotels in Cyprus are divided into several categories - these are hotels that have been assigned stars, hotels in national style, hotels without stars and guest houses. In addition, in Cyprus you can stay in one of the tourist villages, rent an apartment or rent a tent at a campsite. These types of housing also have a gradation - they are divided into classes A, B, C and luxury.

Hotels have a standard classification from one to five stars. Since Cyprus has a strict standard for assigning stars, you can be sure that when you choose one you will receive an appropriate service. However, the cost of living will depend not only on the number of stars, but also on how close the hotel is to the sea, whether the hotel has its own beach and how equipped it is. It is worth considering that if the hotel is located on the coast, you will have to travel quite a distance to get to the city center on your own. As a rule, hotels offer you only breakfast; full board can be ordered for an additional fee. Among the advantages, it can be noted that in most hotels you can find Russian-speaking staff. If we talk about entertainment, then four and five star hotels provide animation programs not only for children, but also for adults. The beach may have water slides.

There are many established official campsites in Cyprus. Here you will find a toilet, shower, small cafes and shops. You can also rent a private apartment, villas on the seashore or houses that will be located in close proximity to the sea. The cost of living here is relatively inexpensive, and the service is high-quality.

Cypriots cherish their traditions, including culinary ones. Cuisine is part of culture, it is history, it is the soul of the people. Cypriot cuisine does not tolerate fuss. It is appetizing, varied and plentiful. Its aromas follow you at every step. It will satisfy both gourmets, lovers of a lot of tasty food, and vegetarians. Cypriot dishes are prepared from fresh ingredients with big amount vegetables, seasoned with local herbs and olive oil, which makes them not only tasty, but also healthy. ...

Tips

A 10% service charge is usually included in the bill at most restaurants. Taxi drivers are also usually given tips. In hotels, it is customary to leave a few coins for the maids.

Visa

Office hours

Banks are open on weekdays from 8.30 to 12.30, some banks in tourist areas are open in the afternoon.

Shops are open from Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. winter time, from 16 to 19 p.m. summer time. On Wednesday and Saturday, shops are closed after lunch.

Purchases

When purchasing, you can receive a Global Refund - VAT refund (8.3% of the purchase amount). To do this, you need to take a Global Refund receipt upon purchase and, having certified it at the customs of Larnaca or Paphos airports, place it in a bright yellow box. Compensation must be sent by wire transfer.

Souvenirs

Most often tourists buy: napkins made of Lefkarian lace; KEO beer; Soundzouko (suzuko) - a Cypriot delicacy made from grape molasses and almonds; Halloumi is a type of cheese made only in Cyprus; Cypriot dessert wine Kommandaria; recordings of traditional Cypriot music; traditional pottery - jugs, vases, candlesticks.

Emergency numbers

The single number for calling the police, firefighters or ambulance is 199 or 112.

Questions and feedback about Cyprus

Larnaca - Questions and Answers

Question answer

Pathos - Questions and Answers

Question answer

Limassol - Questions and Answers

Cyprus is a state located on the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea after Sicily and Sardinia.
Cyprus is the easternmost island in the Mediterranean. The area of the island is 9251 sq. km. The length of Cyprus from east to west is 224 km, and from north to south - 96 km. Length coastline- 780 km. From Cyprus to Israel - 95 km, to Turkey - 65 km, to Egypt - 380 km. The distance from Moscow to Larnaca is 2500 km.
Russian citizens can enter Cyprus without a visa.
The history of Cyprus goes back 9000 years. IN different times The island was owned by the Romans, Byzantines, French, Venetians, and British. In 1878, the Turks gave Cyprus to Great Britain in exchange for promised assistance in the event of war with Russia. In 1960, Cyprus gained independence.
In 1974, Türkiye occupied 37% of the island. The so-called “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” is recognized only by Turkey.
The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, Nicosia remained the only divided capital in the world.
Cyprus is also called the island of Aphrodite. It is believed that the goddess of love, born from the foam of the sea, first set foot on land inhabited by people in Cyprus.
The government system is a republic. The head of state is President Tassos Papadopoulos (since March 1, 2003).
Cyprus has two international airports: Larnaca and Paphos. The airport in Nicosia is used only by UN peacekeepers.
Per capita income is about $15,000 per year. The standard of living in Cyprus is one of the highest in this region of the world.
The population is about 760 thousand people. Population of the main cities: Nicosia - 215 thousand people, Limassol - 160 thousand, Larnaca - 70 thousand, Paphos - 40 thousand.
85% of the population are Orthodox Christians. Most main holiday in Cyprus - Easter.
The official language is Greek. Almost all Cypriots speak English.
The small country has the world's third largest commercial fleet.
Good weather all year round, beautiful roads and magnificent scenery have turned Cyprus into a paradise for cyclists. You can rent a bike for two pounds per day.
Cyprus, together with the USA and Germany, is the main investor in the Russian economy.
The unique location of Cyprus between three continents: Europe, Asia and Africa, determined its climate. Summers here are dry and hot, and winters are warm. Cyprus has between 300 and 330 sunny days a year. in winter average temperature is +15°C, in summer +30°C. The Cyprus climate is considered one of the healthiest in the world.
The currency is the Cypriot pound, which is divided into 100 cents. One Cypriot pound is equal to approximately 1.85 US dollars. Banknotes in circulation are 1, 5, 10 and 20 pounds, and coins are 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents. There are no restrictions on the import or export of foreign currency. It is better to exchange money at banks or the airport. Banks are open from 8.30 to 12.30 (Saturday and Sunday are days off). Reverse exchange is difficult. You should definitely keep the bank receipt for the exchange, since without a receipt you can exchange only 100 pounds for dollars. If you have more than $1,000, you must declare it upon arrival at the airport.
The time is 1 hour behind Moscow.
The most popular newspaper in Russian is the weekly Vestnik Kipra. The Russian Avtoradio broadcasts in Limassol on the frequency 102.2 FM.
In Cyprus, drive on the left traffic. The roads on the island are in good condition. The maximum permissible speed on the highway is 100 km/h, the minimum is 65 km/h. If you don't drive a car, you can use the services of inexpensive minibuses. They circulate every half hour on routes connecting all major cities in Cyprus. “Service Taxi” can be called by phone, and it will pick you up from where you are. Traveling by bus is even cheaper.
There are several British military bases in Cyprus: Akrotiri (west of Limassol), Dhekelia (east of Larnaca) and a radio interception station on the top of Mount Olympus in Troodos. British laws and British courts apply on their territory. It is not the Cypriot, but the British police who keep order here.
Two mountain ranges stretch from west to east of Cyprus: Troodos and Pentadaktylos (“five fingers”). Between them lies the fertile valley of Mesaoria. In Troodos is the highest point of Cyprus - Mount Olympus (1951 m), which the Cypriots themselves call more modestly - Chionistra (“snowy”). In winter, the snowy peaks of Troodos attract ski lovers from all over the world to the island.
In Cyprus, there are still all-male coffee shops, where women are not recommended to enter.
The working week in Cyprus is 40 hours, while in summer the lunch break lasts three hours due to the heat of the day, from 13.00 to 16.00. In addition, on Wednesdays and Saturdays everyone works only until 13.00, and the second half of the day is devoted to rest.
Beaches in Cyprus are free. But you will be charged one pound for a sunbed, and another pound for an umbrella.
It was in Cyprus, in the city of Famagusta, that the main events of Shakespeare's great play Othello unfolded.
A foreigner has the right to buy one apartment or house in Cyprus for plot of land with an area of no more than 2675 sq. m.
Cypriot wines are considered the oldest in the world. The best Cypriot wine is Commandaria. A bottle costs around £4. Commandaria St. John with a black label is considered the best.
International telephone code Cyprus - 357. Get a Cypriot number mobile phone available for £29. A minute of conversation with Moscow will cost you about 7 cents.
Electrical voltage in the network is 240 volts. Three-pin sockets are used. An adapter can be bought for about £1.50.
It is prohibited to lift archaeological treasures from the bottom of the sea or remove them from the territory of Cyprus without special permission from the authorities.

Cyprus- the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea with an area of 9,251 square meters. kilometers.

The island stretches 240 km from east to west and reaches a width of 100 km from north to south. Cyprus is located in the north-eastern part of the Mediterranean at a distance of 380 km from Egypt, 105 km from Syria and 75 km from Turkey. You can travel around the whole of Cyprus by car in one day, getting to know the life of its inhabitants in cities and villages. Cypriots are hardworking, kind and warm-hearted people.

The population of Cyprus is about 850 thousand people. By ethnic groups it is divided into: Greek Cypriots (84.4%), Turkish Cypriots (12.5%), as well as Maronites, Armenians, citizens of European countries, including Russia. Greek Cypriots are Orthodox Christians, Turks are Sunni Muslims.

Two parts of Cyprus

Since 1974, the territory of Cyprus has been divided into two parts: Greek and Turkish. Under the pretext of protecting the Turkish Cypriots, it occupied 37% of the territory of Cyprus, which it illegally holds to this day. For more than twenty years, the Republic of Cyprus has been split by Turkish troops: Turks live in the north and Greeks in the south. Between the territories, a “green line” stretches for 180 km, along which UN troops serve.

Today Cyprus is an independent sovereign republic with a presidential form of government. The capital of Cyprus has been for ten centuries The largest city islands - Nicosia. As a former British colony, Cyprus is part of the Commonwealth.

Religion - majority Christians - 77%, Islam occupies only 18%.
Time is one hour behind Moscow.
The currency is the Cypriot pound (CYP). 1 CYP = 100 cents. 1 CYP is approximately equal to 2 US$.
Language - Greek and Turkish languages, English is widely spoken.

Climate of Cyprus

The island has 330 sunny days a year, but holidays are seasonal - May-November. The sun is especially active from April to September, when the duration of bright sunshine reaches 11 hours a day.

Summer(May-October) - the time of heat - the thermometer in the shade often rises to 40 C°. Swimming season lasts from May to October, just like the heat season.

Winter- air temperature rarely drops below +15 C°. Most cold month in the year - January. The nature of the Cypriot winter is changeable - sunny days interspersed with persistent rains and cloudy skies.

Border and customs

To visit Cyprus, Russians will need to obtain a national Cypriot visa.
You will need a valid foreign passport (at least 3 months from the date of entry), 1 photo (for both an adult and a child), a certificate from the place of employment (on letterhead indicating the position and wages) and a questionnaire. Registration will be free.

Cyprus Customs allows the import and export of a maximum of 50 CYP in cash. Restrictions do not apply to checks, cards and other financial documents, as well as foreign currency. It is allowed to import duty-free no more than 1 liter of strong alcoholic beverages, 0.75 liters of wine; 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco; 0.3l perfume or eau de toilette. You can export duty-free goods in an amount not exceeding 50 CYP.

Russian customs gives approval for export:
- an amount equivalent to $3,000, without a certificate of currency purchase and declaration;
- amounts from $3,000 to $10,000 with the provision of a certificate of currency purchase and declaration;
- amounts over $10,000 with written permission from the Central Bank of the Russian Federation.

Sights of Cyprus

Nicosia

Cathedral of Agios Ioannis. Located on the grounds of the Archbishop's Palace. Now it's a cathedral orthodox cathedral, metochion of the Greek Orthodox Church in Cyprus. The church is interesting for its clear architectural design and 16th century frescoes.
Catholic Cathedral of St. Sophia 13th century. This magnificent monument of Gothic architecture from the 16th century. was converted by the Turks into the Hagia Sophia Mosque, and in 1945 into the Selimiye Mosque.
Church of St. Nicholas of England 16th century. Under the Venetians it was the main Orthodox church cities. After the capture of Nicosia by the Turks, it was turned into a market for the sale of fabrics and is therefore now known as Badestan (“covered market” in Turkish).
In addition, in Nicosia there are preserved orthodox churches Panagias of Chrysaliniotissa, Phaneromeni, Trypiotis (or Archangel Michael), St. Sava, St. Spyridon, St. Anatolius, St. Cassian, English Cathedral St. Paul, Maronite Church, Catholic Church.

The temple of the Augustinian monks has also been preserved, which after the Turkish occupation was turned into the Omeriye Mosque. The original Turkish monuments include the Arab Ahmed Pasha Mosque. It was built in the 17th century. and named after the Turkish governor general on the island of Rhodes. In the courtyard of the mosque there is a perfectly preserved fountain from the 17th century.

On territory of Limassol there are 2 churches: St. Anastasia and St. Christina. A little further, 19 km from the city, is the monastery of St. Georgios Alamanos.

IN Larnaca we can meet:

Church of St. Lazarus. Built in 900 AD. According to legend, the church contains the empty tomb of Lazarus.
Halla Sultan Tekke (Tekke Umm Haram). In the Muslim world, this mosque is considered the third holiest shrine after the Kaaba in Mecca and the sanctuary of Muhammad in Medina. As legend has it, the temple was built on the site fatal fall Muhammad's adoptive mother, Hala Sultan, who arrived with troops of Arab conquerors.
Church of Angeloktisti. The name itself means “built by angels.” This is a Byzantine basilica from the 11th century. Located 11 km from Larnaca in the town of Kiti.
Stavrovouni Monastery. 37 km from Larnaca at the top high mountain there is a Byzantine basilica. The monastery was founded in the 4th century. AD mother of Emperor Constantine - Helena. She also presented the monastery with a piece of the cross on which Christ was crucified. (Women are not allowed into the monastery).

Pathos

Church of Chrysopolitissa. Built in the 13th century. on the site of an early Christian basilica. According to legend, the Apostle Paul was tied to one of the columns and beaten.
St. Neophytos. 9 km from Paphos. Founded in the 12th century. hermit-writer Neophytos. Magnificent icons from the 12th to 15th centuries have been preserved.
Church of St. Solomonia. Frescoes from the 12th century have been preserved.

Famagusta

Cathedral of St. Nicholas 14th century. This best example Gothic church architecture in Cyprus.
Monastery in Ayia Napa 15th century. The Venetian monastery is located in the center of Ayia Napa. monastery with a small chapel in the underground part of the church and a Venetian fountain, setting tourists in a contemplative mood.

In the Troodos Mountains:

Church of the Archangel Michael. Located in the village of Pedoulas. The church is included in the UNESCO list.
Chrysoroyatissa Monastery. Known since 1152, most of the surviving buildings date back to 1770.
Kykkos Monastery the largest and richest monastery in Cyprus, located at an altitude of 1140 m in a pine grove, far from settlements. The monastery had its own possessions even on the Black Sea shores, and in Cyprus the monastery is to this day the largest landowner. They say that the Turks, who plundered the monastery, took away gold and silver items from here in 1821 on 16 camels. Kikko was the most important place of pilgrimage in the country. Many believers thanked the monastery for the miracles attributed to it with bequeathed gifts. Evangelist Luke, according to legend, painted an icon of the Most Holy Theotokos, which is considered miraculous. And this icon was given to the monastery by the Byzantine emperor Alexei Komnenos in 1100. In 1795, the icon received a silver frame that covered the image, and since then no one has seen it. They say that the holiness of the image is so great that not every person can withstand it.
Trooditissa Monastery hidden at an altitude of 1424 m at the very end of a fertile valley under powerful plane trees and walnut trees. It was founded 1000 years ago on the spot where they found miraculous icon Theotokos, the author of which is considered to be the Evangelist Luke. The monastery served as the summer residence of the Paphos bishop and more than once suffered from forest fires. Therefore, we see here buildings of relatively recent construction. In the monastery church of 1731 there is kept a miraculous belt trimmed with silver: popular belief, he helps give birth to a son. The flow of pilgrims to the monastery does not stop, thirsting for healing from infertility.
Most interesting monuments Secular architecture in Cyprus are mainly castles and fortresses. Three medieval castles: St. Hilarion, Bufavento and Kantara, are located at the top of the Pentadaktylos mountain range, in the territory of Turkish occupation. The castles were built during the Byzantine Empire and were later conquered by the Louisianans.
Kolossi Castle in Limassol, has survived to this day. It belonged to the Knights of St. John, the Great General. It was in this castle that King Richard the Lionheart married Princess Berengaria of Navarre in 1191. Now it is a museum of the Middle Ages.
Famagusta Citadel- Castello, where the “Tower of Othello” is located, attracts the most attention. After all, it was here, according to Shakespeare’s play, that the action of Othello took place. It is believed that the story of the Venetian Moor was inspired by the fate of Christopher Moreau, commander of the Venetian troops in Cyprus at the beginning of the 16th century.
One of the most remarkable castles in Cyprus is Saranta Colones fortress- “40 Columns”, located in Paphos. It was built by the Byzantines from the ruins of ancient structures. The earthquake of 1222 destroyed its forts, which had recently been repaired by the crusaders.