The Republic of Cyprus gained independence from Britain in 1960 but northern Cyprus was later invaded and occupied by Turkey in 1974 after a coup overthrew the country's first president, Archbishop Makarios. Cyprus later joined the European Union in 2004 and adopted the euro in 2008. The capital and largest city of Cyprus is Nicosia, located near the center of the island, while Limassol is the second largest city and center of the wine industry.

1. The Republic of Cyprus gained its
independence from Britain in 1960, after the
1955-59 liberation movement, with
archbishop Makarios being the first
president.

2. This gave Turkey the chance
to invade and occupy the
northern part of the island.
In July 1974, a croup overthrew
the legal president, Makarios.

4. Cyprus has been accepted as a
member of European Union in
May 1st 2004 and joined the
eurozone in 1st January 2008.

5. Cyprus has a Subtropical-Mediterranean climate with
mild winters and hot summers.

8. …even visit our lovely
mountain villages to
experience our well known
warm hospitality and
tasteful traditional dishes.

9. and the zivania schnapps.

12. It is highly protected.

13. Nicosia is the capital and
largest city, as well as its
main business centre. It is
located near the centre of
the Mesaoria plain, on the
banks of the River
Pedieos.

14. Limassol is the island’s second largest city,
and a bustling holiday
the centre of
the wine industry

15. Larnaca, may be considered
as the international gateway
to Cyprus, having the
island’s second port and the
main international airport.

18. Kyrenia noted for its historic harbour and castle.