Geography and Climate

Ideally positioned in the Eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus enjoys a strategic location linking the busy air and sea routes of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean, both in land area and population.

The island is divided into six districts.

  • Nicosia, the capital, lies at the heart of the island.

  • Limassol, the main seaport and largest city, is located on the southern coast.

  • Larnaca and Paphos, both home to international airports, are also on the south coast.

  • Famagusta, home to the world-famous resorts of Ayia Napa and Protaras, occupies the southeastern tip of Cyprus and is renowned for its golden beaches and crystal waters.

  • The sixth district, Kyrenia, lies in the northern part of the island and has been occupied by Turkish forces since 1974, together with part of Famagusta.

Blessed with over 340 days of sunshine each year, Cyprus boasts one of the warmest climates in Europe — with long, dry summers and mild winters.
The main tourist season stretches from April to November, while the winter months attract visitors to the Troodos Mountains for skiing and scenic inland adventures.

History and Culture

Cyprus is a land with over 10,000 years of recorded history, shaped by its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Over the centuries, the island has been influenced by numerous civilizations — Mycenaeans, Phoenicians, Romans, Venetians, Ottomans, and the British — each leaving behind layers of culture, architecture, and tradition.
Despite this rich diversity, the island retains a strong Greek cultural identity, deeply rooted in its language, customs, and heritage.

Greek and Turkish are the official languages, while English is widely spoken, especially in business, tourism, and real estate.
Due to the island’s growing international community, Russian, French, and German are also commonly used.

Government, Politics, and Law

The Republic of Cyprus is an independent democratic state operating under a presidential system.
The President and Council of Ministers are elected by popular vote every five years, ensuring a stable and transparent government.

Cyprus gained independence from British rule in 1960, and strong ties between the two nations continue, particularly in trade, law, and education.
The island’s legal system remains largely based on English common law, providing confidence and security to international investors and homeowners.

EU Membership and International Relations

Cyprus has been a full member of the European Union since 2004 and adopted the Euro in 2008.
EU membership has strengthened the country’s economy, enhanced its investment appeal, and positioned Cyprus as a gateway between Europe and the Middle East.

The Republic of Cyprus also maintains active participation in numerous international organizations, including:

  • The International Monetary Fund (IMF)

  • The World Bank

  • The Commonwealth

  • The World Trade Organization

  • The Council of Europe

  • The United Nations

Cyprus maintains a global diplomatic presence, with more than 40 embassies and 118 consulates worldwide, and over 80 foreign missions established on the island.

Infrastructure and Transport

Cyprus boasts a modern, efficient infrastructure, making it one of the most advanced island nations in the region.
A well-maintained highway network links all major cities, while two international airports — Larnaca and Paphos — handle over 4 million passengers annually, connecting Cyprus to key European and Middle Eastern destinations.

The island also benefits from state-of-the-art telecommunications, including extensive fiber-optic and satellite networks, which have helped establish Cyprus as a regional technology and business hub.

Two deep-sea ports — in Limassol and Larnaca — serve as the island’s main gateways for trade and tourism.

  • Limassol Port is the principal harbor, accommodating cargo, passenger ships, and international cruise liners.

  • Larnaca Port is currently being redeveloped into a modern marina and commercial port, offering expanded services and docking for large vessels.

Along the coastline, several modern marinas cater to the growing luxury yachting community — including the landmark Ayia Napa Marina, which offers luxury residences, dining, retail, and berthing for over 600 yachts.