Cyprus Facts

Cyprus, island in the northeastern Mediterranean; 9,251 km², 1.2 million residents (2019).Formally, the island is a single state, but since the Turkish invasion of 1974 it has been divided into a Turkish Cypriot part in the north and a Greek Cypriot part in the south. The border between them, which also divides the capital Nicosia into two parts, is monitored by UN troops. The Turkish Cypriot part, which comprises 37 percent of the area, has its own government but is not recognized as an independent state by any country other than Turkey.

Country facts

• Kypriakí Dimokratía (Greek)
  Kıbrıs Cumhuriyeti (Turkish) /
  Republic of Cyprus
• Country abbreviation: CY
• Area: 9 251 km²
• Population (2019): 1.2 million residents
• Capital: Nicosia
• Main languages: Greek, Turkish
• State: Republic
• Head of State and Head of Government: Nicos Anastasiades (President)
• Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 28,159
• GNI per capita (2018): US $ 26,300
• Currency unit: 1 euro = 100 cents
• Country number (telephony): 357
• Currency code: EUR
• Internet Domain Name: cy
• Time difference compared to Sweden: +1
• National Day: October 1 (Independence Day, 1960)

Nature

• Land use: forest (19%), agricultural land (14%), other (67%)
• Highest mountain: Olympus (1,951 m asl)

Population

• Population density (2019): 130 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 0.5%; birth number 11 ‰, death number 6 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (17%), 15-64 (69%), 65- (14%)
• Average life expectancy (2019): men 81 years, women 84 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 3 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast 2050: 1.4 million residents
• HDI (2017): 0.869 (place 32 of 189)
• Urbanization rate (2019): 68%
• Most populous cities (2012): Nicosia (237,800 residents), Limassol (179,400), Larnaca (58,000)
• Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography

Location and Borders

Cyprus is an island country located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, southeast of the Greek mainland, and southwest of Turkey. It is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean, covering an area of approximately 9,251 square kilometers (3,572 square miles). The island lies at a crossroads between Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it historically significant as a cultural and trade hub. Cyprus has a strategic location near key sea routes that connect the Middle East with Europe, which has influenced its history and cultural exchange.

Cyprus is divided into two political entities: the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus, which controls the majority of the island, and the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which is only recognized by Turkey. The island is further divided by the Green Line, a demilitarized zone, which separates the Greek Cypriot-controlled south and the Turkish Cypriot-controlled north. Cyprus shares no formal land borders with any other country, though the island is situated relatively close to Turkey, Syria, and Lebanon to the northeast.

Topography and Natural Features

Cyprus features a diverse topography, with a combination of mountains, plains, and coastal areas. The island is dominated by the Troodos Mountains in the south-central part, which rise to the highest point on the island, Mount Olympus, at 1,952 meters (6,411 feet). These mountains are rich in forests and are home to a variety of flora and fauna, contributing to the island’s biodiversity. The Troodos region is also known for its picturesque villages, hiking trails, and ancient Byzantine monasteries.

To the north of the Troodos Mountains lies the Mesaoria Plain, a flat and fertile area that stretches across the center of the island. This plain is the island’s primary agricultural region and is characterized by vast fields of crops such as vegetables, grains, and citrus fruits. The fertile land and Mediterranean climate make the plain an important economic zone for Cyprus.

Cyprus is surrounded by a rugged coastline, with numerous bays, sandy beaches, and steep cliffs, particularly along the southern and western shores. The coastal regions are highly developed and are home to major cities, tourist resorts, and ports. Some of the most famous beaches in Cyprus are found along the Mediterranean coast, including those near Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos.

The island is also rich in natural resources, with deposits of copper, gypsum, and salt. The copper resources, in particular, have played a major role in Cyprus’s history, earning the island its name from the Latin word for copper, “Cyprium.”

Climate and Seasonal Variation

Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The climate is typically sunny and warm for much of the year, with average temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F) during the summer months of June to August. The island enjoys around 300 sunny days per year, making it a year-round tourist destination.

The coastal areas experience milder winters, with average temperatures around 15°C (59°F), while the inland and mountainous regions can be cooler, especially in the Troodos Mountains, where snow is common in the winter. Rainfall is concentrated in the winter months, particularly from November to March, with December and January being the wettest months. While Cyprus is known for its dry summers, it does experience occasional rainfall during the wet season, which supports the island’s agriculture.

Cyprus’s climate is ideal for growing a variety of crops, including grapes, olives, citrus fruits, and vegetables. The warm temperatures also allow for the cultivation of vineyards that produce Cypriot wine, which is an important part of the island’s economy and culture.

People

Population and Demographics

Cyprus has a population of approximately 1.2 million people. The population is primarily concentrated in urban areas, particularly in the capital city of Nicosia, which is the last divided capital in Europe. Nicosia is the economic, political, and cultural center of the island and is divided by the Green Line, separating the Greek Cypriot-controlled south from the Turkish Cypriot-controlled north. Other major cities include Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos, all of which are known for their tourism industry, historical significance, and proximity to the Mediterranean coastline.

The population of Cyprus is ethnically diverse, with Greek Cypriots making up the majority of the population, comprising around 77% of the island’s inhabitants. The Turkish Cypriot minority, who make up about 18% of the population, primarily reside in the northern part of the island. Other minority groups include Maronites, Armenians, and Latins, who have historical and religious ties to the island.

Cyprus is a member of the European Union, and its population is relatively well-educated, with a high literacy rate. The country has a rapidly growing expatriate community, especially in major cities, due to its status as a regional business hub and its attraction as a tourist destination.

Languages

The official languages of Cyprus are Greek and Turkish, reflecting the ethnic composition of the island. Greek is spoken by the majority of the population, particularly in the southern and central regions, while Turkish is spoken by the Turkish Cypriot community in the northern part of the island. Both languages are taught in schools, and many people in Cyprus are bilingual, particularly in urban areas.

English is widely spoken and understood in Cyprus, particularly in business and government. English is taught in schools from an early age, and it is commonly used in the tourism, legal, and banking sectors. This is a result of the British colonial presence in Cyprus until 1960, which has left a lasting influence on the country’s legal and administrative systems.

Cyprus’s multilingual nature reflects the cultural diversity of the island and the influence of different civilizations throughout its history, including Greek, Turkish, British, and various Middle Eastern and European cultures.

Religion

Religion plays an important role in the culture of Cyprus, particularly Greek Orthodox Christianity and Islam. The majority of the population in the southern part of the island is Greek Orthodox Christian, which is an essential part of Greek Cypriot identity and culture. The Orthodox Church of Cyprus, an autocephalous church, is one of the oldest Christian institutions in the world and has a significant influence on both social life and politics. Religious festivals, such as Easter, are celebrated with great enthusiasm across the island, with many churches, monasteries, and religious sites scattered throughout Cyprus.

In the northern part of Cyprus, the Turkish Cypriot population primarily practices Islam. The Muslim community is predominantly Sunni, and their religious practices are integral to their cultural identity. Like Greek Orthodox Christianity, Islam plays a central role in the daily lives of Turkish Cypriots, with mosques and religious schools serving as focal points for religious and social life.

Cyprus also has smaller religious minorities, including Maronites (an Eastern Christian sect), Armenians, and Latins, who follow their own Christian traditions. Despite the religious divide between the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, religious tolerance is generally present in Cyprus, with both communities respecting each other’s traditions and places of worship.

Economy

Overview

The economy of Cyprus is considered to be one of the most developed in the Mediterranean region, characterized by a mix of services, industry, and agriculture. Since its independence from Britain in 1960, Cyprus has transformed from a largely agricultural economy into a modern, diversified economy. The country joined the European Union in 2004 and adopted the Euro in 2008, marking a significant step in its economic integration into Europe.

Cyprus’s economy is driven by the services sector, which includes finance, shipping, real estate, and tourism. The country’s strategic location, well-developed infrastructure, and skilled labor force have made it an attractive destination for international business. Despite challenges, including political divisions and economic crises, Cyprus remains an important business hub in the region.

The agricultural sector, though smaller than in the past, remains an important part of the economy, with products such as citrus fruits, grapes, olives, and potatoes being exported. Cyprus is also known for its wine industry, producing a variety of wines, including the famous Commandaria, one of the world’s oldest wines.

Industry and Services

The industrial sector in Cyprus is diversified, with key industries including pharmaceuticals, construction, food processing, and electronics. The country has a well-established tourism industry, which is one of the largest contributors to GDP. Cyprus’s beautiful beaches, archaeological sites, and Mediterranean climate make it a popular destination for tourists from Europe and beyond. The government has made efforts to expand and modernize the tourism infrastructure, and the sector continues to grow despite regional political tensions.

Shipping is another important industry in Cyprus, as the island has one of the largest merchant fleets in the world. The port of Limassol is a key port for shipping activities, serving as a hub for regional trade and logistics.

The services sector, particularly banking and finance, is also a major contributor to the economy. Cyprus is home to a large number of international banks and financial institutions, and it is considered a financial center for both Europe and the Middle East. The country’s favorable tax regime and business-friendly environment have attracted international investors, though the 2013 banking crisis revealed vulnerabilities in the sector.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Agriculture has played an important role in Cyprus’s history, and despite the country’s rapid industrialization, it continues to contribute to the economy. The fertile plains and mild Mediterranean climate provide ideal conditions for the cultivation of a variety of crops. Cyprus is known for producing citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons, as well as grapes, which are used for winemaking. The island is also a major exporter of potatoes, particularly to the UK, and produces olive oil, figs, and vegetables.

The country has limited natural resources, but it has been a significant producer of copper, which was historically a major export product. Cyprus also has deposits of gypsum, salt, and marble, though these industries have declined over time. Recently, offshore oil and natural gas exploration has become a key area of interest, with potential for increased economic growth if reserves are fully developed.

Government

Political System

Cyprus is a republic with a presidential system of government. The president is both the head of state and head of government, and is elected every five years by popular vote. The president has significant executive powers, including control over foreign policy, defense, and key appointments in the government. The political system is based on the principles of democracy and representative government, with a focus on human rights and civil liberties.

Cyprus is divided into two main political entities: the Greek Cypriot-controlled southern part and the Turkish Cypriot-controlled northern part. The Republic of Cyprus, which controls the southern part, is the internationally recognized government of the island, while the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is only recognized by Turkey. This division has led to significant political tensions, particularly since the Turkish invasion of 1974 following a Greek-led coup.

The government is structured with a multiparty system, with various political parties representing a wide range of ideologies, including conservatives, socialists, and liberals. The legislature, called the House of Representatives, consists of 56 members elected by the public, who serve for a five-year term. The legislature is responsible for passing laws, approving budgets, and overseeing the executive branch.

Legal System

Cyprus has a civil law system based on a mix of English common law and Roman-Dutch law. The legal system is independent, with the judiciary playing a critical role in interpreting and applying the law. The courts in Cyprus include a Supreme Court, which is the highest court in the country, and other lower courts that handle civil, criminal, and administrative cases.

The legal framework is based on the constitution of 1960, which established the Republic of Cyprus as a bicommunal state, recognizing both the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. However, due to the division of the island, the legal system in the northern part of the island follows Turkish law.

Cyprus is a member of the European Union, and its legal system aligns with EU regulations and standards, particularly in areas related to trade, human rights, and the protection of the environment.

Foreign Relations

Cyprus has a complex foreign relations situation due to its political division. The Republic of Cyprus maintains strong ties with the European Union, having been a member since 2004. The island is also a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth, and other international organizations. Cyprus has strong relations with Greece, and both countries cooperate on various regional and international issues.

The relationship with Turkey remains a central issue in Cyprus’s foreign relations. The Turkish invasion of 1974 and the subsequent division of the island have led to long-standing political and diplomatic tensions. Cyprus also has a close relationship with Israel, particularly in terms of energy cooperation, and has sought to enhance ties with Arab states in recent years.

Cyprus is strategically positioned between Europe, Asia, and Africa, and its foreign policy emphasizes peace, stability, and regional cooperation. The government has worked to improve relations with its neighbors, including Syria, Lebanon, and Egypt, focusing on issues such as energy exploration, trade, and security.