Cyprus and copper
During the Roman period, copper was known as “aes cyprium”, meaning “metal from Cyprus”, in reference to the island's reputation as one of the largest producers of copper in the ancient world. Eventually, the term “cyprium” began to be used on its own and was later changed to “cuprum”. The name of copper in most Western European languages is derived from this Latin word.
A taste of Cyprus
Centuries of cultural influences, combined with the resourcefulness of local communities, have shaped a Cypriot cuisine rooted in simple yet high-quality ingredients and time-honoured techniques. From meats and cheeses to fruits and vegetables grown in the island’s fertile countryside, Cypriots have long transformed precious culinary resources into a versatile and distinctive culinary tradition.
Many of the island’s products draw their unique character from their place of origin and are protected under the EU’s Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) scheme, including halloumi cheese, Cyprus’ most famous export.
Commandaria, known as “the wine of kings”, the world’s oldest named wine still in production, also comes from Cyprus. Legend has it that it was served at the wedding of King Richard the Lionheart and Berengaria of Navarre in Lemesos in the 12th century.
The Cypriot “meze” tradition, a restaurant’s collection of its best dishes served in small portions for sharing, reflects the island’s warm, communal way of dining.
Carob, often referred to as Cyprus’ “black gold” and once a vital pillar of the rural economy, is cherished for its rich flavour and nutritional value, and is used in traditional foods such as Cyprus’ famous haroupomelo (carob syrup).
Land of sunshine
Cyprus enjoys over 300 days of sunlight a year, making it one of the sunniest countries in Europe.
Land of contrasts
Cyprus combines warm, sandy beaches with high, forested mountains. During the winter and early spring, a short drive is all it takes to ski in the Troodos mountains and swim in the crystal-clear sea, all in the same day.
Europe’s cleanest waters
Cyprus consistently ranks among the EU member states with the cleanest bathing waters. The kind of crystal-clear seas that make a swim hard to resist.
A sky full of stars
At 1,900 metres above sea level, the Troodos Mountains offer some of the clearest skies and exceptional conditions for stargazing. If you happen to visit in August, during the annual Perseids meteor shower, when countless shooting stars cross the night sky, head up to the mountains, look up, and make a wish.
Endemic biodiversity
Cyprus’ relative isolation has created unique biodiversity, with many endemic species found nowhere else in the world.
- National animal: the agrino, an indigenous mouflon sheep
- National flower: the Cyprus cyclamen
- National tree: the Golden oak (Quercus alnifolia)
Facts and figures
- Population: approx. 1 million
- Capital: Lefkosia (Nicosia)
- Official languages: Greek and Turkish
- EU membership: Since 2004
State symbols
Flag: A copper-coloured map of Cyprus (a reference to the island’s historic link to copper) placed above two crossed olive-green olive branches. The flag was designed by Turkish Cypriot artist Ismet Güney.
Emblem: A white dove carrying an olive branch, set inside a copper-coloured shield above the year 1960, marking the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus. Both the dove and the olive branches symbolise peace.
For more information visit www.visitcyprus.com